5 ways to kill Imposter Syndrome

5 Simple Ways to Kill Impostor SyndromeWe often hear people talking about ‘imposter syndrome.’ This phrase refers to a feeling of being an impostor, unable to take credit for your own success and believing that you are a fake. Impostor syndrome is commonly experienced by high-achieving individuals, especially those who have recently experienced a great deal of personal success or recognition. It’s almost like a defense mechanism that kicks in when we feel like we cannot handle the pressure of the new level or the expectations that come with success. Unfortunately, this syndrome can be quite detrimental to your career and personal growth. If you want to learn how to kill Impostor Syndrome and prevent it from affecting your performance going forward, listen on!Ask For FeedbackIf you find yourself feeling like an impostor, ask for feedback from those around you that you trust. This is a simple way to get some objective input and prove to yourself that you’re not a fraud. You could also choose to reach out to an industry leader or expert and ask for their feedback on your work to gain a more general perspective on your abilities. Receiving feedback can help you take a step back and gain a more realistic view of your abilities, which can help to eliminate feelings of incompetence and impostor syndrome.       2. Take Time to Evaluate Your AccomplishmentsIt’s easy to look at your past accomplishments and devalue them, as though they are insignificant or were largely a matter of luck. However, it’s important to take some time to celebrate the successes that you’ve already had. If you’re feeling extremely inadequate, write a list of your accomplishments and reread the list often. Listen to a podcast or audiobook related to your work which will give you comfort when it becomes obvious that what you hear is not unknown to you. If leaders in your field have similar ideas and thoughts, then clearly you understand your stuff.      3. Change the way You View YourselfEveryone needs some luck and if you have had a lucky break rather than feel that all you have achieved is purely down to this luck be grateful that lady luck smiled on you and allowed your good work to be recognised. We all have the potential for excellence. Relax and believe that you have what it takes, luck and all. Go for a walk and be determined to get over yourself and accept that whatever comes you will handle and whatever you don’t know and need you will learn it just like millions of others before you. While this may not fully eliminate impostor syndrome, you will likely find this as a good way to reduce its effects and relieve stress.       4. Develop a Growth MindsetA growth mindset refers to the belief that we can grow and learn significantly over time and that we don’t have a static set of abilities. It encourages a desire to challenge ourselves and to learn from mistakes. You can work to overcome impostor syndrome by reminding yourself of your ability to grow and change. Consider finding a coach or mentor like myself that you can use to discuss your worries and challenges. You will be surprised at how many people you admire, who seem so confident are as scared and overwhelmed as you if you open the door for them to be truthful with you.       5. Learn From MistakesIf you experience a significant level of impostor syndrome, you may become hesitant to speak up in meetings or to make mistakes. However, avoiding these things will not only increase your chances of experiencing impostor syndrome, but it may also keep you from growing as a professional. Write down all the worst-case scenarios that you can think of to help take the emotion out of a situation, which in turn may help you to come up with potential solutions to the problems that you’re worried about. Another way to get past impostor syndrome is to ask for help when you need it. While it may be extremely difficult to do,