Imposter Syndrome

Though people have been doubting themselves throughout time, it finally got a name in 1978. It is called imposter syndrome. This basically means that a person doubts themselves. However, it can be even worse than just being insecure and having some doubts. In fact, many who suffer from imposter syndrome are so scared, they are unable to do anything about it.

It can happen to anyone, and most people have probably gone through it a time or two. No matter how smart you are, how well you have done with something in the past, or how good you are with people, you may doubt yourself so much that you feel like a fraud.

This commonly occurs when one starts a new job. Even if you have already done the job, you may feel powerless when it comes time to start your new one. There are times when it can ruin your own career!

Writers often feel like they have imposter syndrome. In fact, many would rather say that they don't work than to say that they are a writer. Even if you have made some money with it, you may still struggle to say that you are a writer. You may feel like you are making it up!

No matter what imposter syndrome is holding you back from, it doesn't have to. Here are some tips for getting over imposter syndrome.

Talk about it. Many people don't talk about their feelings of self-doubt and fraud, and that can be damaging. Admit that you are worried about how you are feeling, and you may be surprised how many others share your same feelings.

In fact, this can be really freeing, to know that you are not alone. In a writer forum that I like to read (and keep up with), many writers feel this way. From the person who is just starting at the company to someone who has reached level eight (which is a high honor), many writers talk about this feeling. I always love to read these comments because I don't feel so alone.

Separate your feelings from facts. Everyone does stupid things once in a while, and there is nothing wrong with that. You made a mistake? So does everyone. However, this doesn't mean that you are stupid.

In fact, learn from your mistakes and failures. The truth is that, in making mistakes and failing, you can learn a lot about yourself. Don't beat yourself up over it. Instead, take a deep breath, realize what you did, and figure out how you can become better.

Fake it until you make it. The truth is that there are going to be times when we feel like an imposter. You can't wait until you feel better to do something. Give it a whirl now and see what happens. You might just find out that you were better than you ever imagined!

The imposter syndrome can be very devastating. Many people don't get started, because they don't feel like they are good enough. However, that can be a mistake. If you open up about how you are feeling, you may realize that you aren't alone. Others may also feel the same way. You may also need to fake it until you make it. You might be amazed by what happens!

While you work on feeling like a fraud, I will also. I will find ways to explain myself better. I am a full time mother, full time farmHER (love that term), part-time veterinary technician (animal nurse), and a part-time freelance writer. I wear many hats (and should with pride). I work hard and shouldn't feel like such a fraud!