5 Ways to Overcome Imposter Syndrome at Work

Ever felt self-doubt about your capabilities at the office?

Feeling inadequate in a new role? You might be dealing with imposter syndrome.

However, there are ways to overcome imposter syndrome at work so you can feel confident again.

Changing your mindset from “I can’t believe they hired me” to “I earned this job due to my excellence and hard work” will take a while to achieve.

However, with practice, you can drastically improve your confidence and achieve greater career milestones.

What is Imposter Syndrome?

Imposter syndrome is a feeling of inadequacy and self-doubt despite the evidence of your competency and achievements.

This feeling happens a lot when you’re at the office and you tend to compare yourself to others.

You may not feel confident no matter how much success you have achieved, and anxiety coupled with perfectionism will fuel how you operate at the workplace.

What Triggers Imposter Syndrome?

Growing up in an environment where you faced high criticism or praise based on your achievements can cause you to have feelings of imposter syndrome.

Starting a new job or school opportunity can also trigger imposter syndrome since being in a new role may feel like you don’t have as much experience as others.

These feelings can trigger greater emotional effects of depression, anxiety, and lowered job satisfaction.

Is it Normal to Feel Imposter Syndrome at Work?

Whether you are just starting out in your career or a seasoned veteran, most of us will face imposter syndrome.

In fact, researchers have found that 70% of us will face imposter syndrome at some point in our lives.

It’s a common condition to not be distraught over but could still have damaging effects to one’s confidence.

How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome at Work

1. Acknowledge your feelings

One of the first steps to overcoming imposter syndrome is recognizing and acknowledging your feelings.

Admitting that you feel inadequate at your job can help take control of the situation and move forward with a productive and actionable game plan.

2. Let go of perfection

Aiming for an impossible level of achievement will only hinder your productivity and make you feel like you are not good enough.

Instead, reframe your thoughts and aim to achieve each task to the best of your ability.

No one will be able to complete any task perfectly and holding yourself to a standard that is unrealistic will only make you feel more distressed.

3. Separate your feelings from the facts

You might feel like you may not be good at your job but remember those feelings are usually an opinion based out of fear and not facts.

A fact is an observable truth and your feelings about yourself is an opinion based on an assumption.

For example, if you think a mistake you made on a past assignment will not give you a future promotion, remember that is just an opinion.

Understanding these differences will help put less pressure on yourself when faced with similar scenarios.

4. Remind yourself of your achievements

Instead of focusing on your perceived shortcomings, try to focus on your strengths and accomplishments.

Make a list of your achievements and remind yourself of them whenever you feel doubtful.

If you receive an email with praise, save it for future reminders.

Keeping track of your successes is a great positive reinforcement for those days when you might be feeling down.

5. Share your feelings with a mentor

Talking to someone that you feel comfortable with at work can help you gain perspective and provide reassurance.

They can provide helpful advice or tools that they used to overcome similar situations.

You might also find out that they had similar feelings of self-doubt which can help you not feel alone.

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome at Work

Combating imposter syndrome may feel like a huge obstacle to overcome but by refocusing your mindset and practicing these tips, you will become the empowered superstar that you always were.

Remember that overcoming imposter syndrome takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and celebrate your progress along the way.

Our Free Career Center is also an additional tool to help you feel confident at your job with exclusive access to multiple resources.