How many of us have ever received a promotion, an excellent grade, or an award only to ask ourselves if we deserved it or if someone made a mistake? Yet, we wouldn’t ask a friend if they worked hard enough for their pay raise. So, why do we question ourselves, and what is that inner voice telling us we aren’t good enough? The answer is a false voice called imposter syndrome. Therefore, we will discuss how to overcome and rid yourself of imposter syndrome.

What is Imposter Syndrome?

Imposter syndrome is an individual’s inability to believe they can achieve anything. Their insecurities cause them to fear that they’re a “fraud.’ Or they discard their achievements, thinking it was due to luck, or they pulled the wool over someone’s head.

So, how can you rid yourself of imposter syndrome?

1. Remind yourself that you earned these achievements.

Whether you achieved a student of the month award, a letter of recommendation, or a high school diploma or GED, go back and read it as often as possible. It’s important to remind yourself that there’s a reason you earned them. Would you honestly have received them if you were an imposter?

Acknowledging your achievements is far from bragging. You earned it, so why shouldn’t you? There is nothing wrong with being proud of your accomplishments. Plus, people are more apt to believe it when they see it in front of them. Therefore, whenever you begin to doubt yourself, go back to it again and again.

2. Talk with someone about your doubts.

There is nothing wrong with asking someone you know and trust for their opinion. Maybe you’d like to discuss your self-doubts with them and get their input. However, if you continue to doubt yourself or seek constant reassurance, you might want to talk with a therapist to help you improve your self-esteem.

Essentially, it doesn’t matter how many people reassure you if you don’t believe in yourself. But once you find internal worth, you will seek external reassurance less.

3. Confront your inner voice.

Facing one’s demons never feels good, but thoughts only increase if you push them away. For example, allow yourself to think of any fruit for a few minutes except carrots. The more you try to avoid thinking of carrots, the more likely they will pop up in your mind. Well, the same is true of imposter syndrome.

Therefore, rather than avoiding your thoughts, try using radical acceptance, which is a method that involves accepting life as is without resisting what you cannot or choose not to change. Then move on to an activity that has helped you in the past to get out of a rut. That can include showering, running, knitting, etc.

If you’ve never tried this method, see if you can find something to help you move on. For instance, maybe you like reading books or going outside – whatever works best for you is what matters most. 

4. Attend therapy.

Often, behind imposter syndrome is something more deep-rooted. For example, did you grow up in an unhealthy environment? Were you ridiculed as a child? Did your deeds go unnoticed? There can be many reasons, but you might want to seek further help if you continuously doubt yourself.

A therapist can use many forms of treatment, but it varies depending on the individual’s circumstances. For example, they might use psychoanalytic therapy to get to the root of their self-doubt or repressed memories, often from childhood. Or, a therapist may use cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to help change unhealthy thoughts and eliminate doubts.

5. Seek support.

It’s vital to know that you are not alone. Having someone who can relate to your issues and listen without judgment can help relieve your sadness or loneliness. One such place is Barty’s Adventures, where they hold special events and adventures to help men feel better about themselves by keeping active, thus improving mental health. Barty – We Are A Mental Health Initiative

Hope and healing from trauma are possible with the proper help and support. So, don’t let your past hold you back because it won’t benefit you in the present. Instead, take the reigns and create the life you deserve.

No matter what you’re going through, you deserve to be supported.

Don’t Let Imposter Syndrome Dictate Your Life

Knowing that your thoughts are just thoughts and hold no power over you is essential. So, whenever you question whether you’re good enough, remember that imposter syndrome is deceptive and will try to rob you of the self-confidence you deserve.

Why Not Try Online Therapy?

Hopefully, these points could give some comfort, but sometimes just reading quotes isn’t enough. Online therapy can be a great option if you or a loved one seek more support.

Therapy through BetterHelp.com/Barty can be more affordable than traditional therapy, allowing many options to communicate with your therapist from the comfort of your home. Most importantly, remember that it is okay not to be okay, and you are no less of a human for feeling your emotions and being vulnerable.

To receive 25% off your first month, head to BetterHelp.com/Barty

Feel free to drop by if you’d like to chat and just say, ‘Hey Barty,’ in strict confidence, and you can be anonymous if you wish. Or do not hesitate to leave a question in the comments section below at any time.