Five ways to deal with Imposter Syndrome

Are you familiar with the infamous Impostor syndrome? That niggling voice in your head that says you are not good enough? That feeling that you will never amount to anything? It’s a challenging opponent to any artist that dedicates himself to his or her art.

Here are five effective strategies that I have used to be able to deal with it. I know I regularly have to hold myself in check, so when you recognise that voice in your head, come back to read this list here below and use the one you believe will be most beneficial to you. 

Reframe your thoughts

Challenge negative self-talk by reframing your thoughts. Instead of focusing on self-doubt, remind yourself of your skills, experiences, and the value you bring. Embrace the fact that everyone makes mistakes and that learning and growth are part of the process.

Seek support from others

Share your feelings of impostor syndrome with trusted friends, mentors, or colleagues. Often, you'll find that they can relate and provide reassurance. Their perspectives can help you gain insight into your abilities and remind you of your accomplishments.

Embrace failure as a learning opportunity

Instead of fearing failure, view it as a chance to grow and improve. Recognise that making mistakes is natural and doesn't diminish your worth or competence. Learn from your failures and use them to develop new skills and insights.

Set realistic goals

Impostor syndrome can arise when you set unrealistic expectations for yourself. Break down your goals into manageable steps and celebrate your progress along the way. By setting achievable objectives, you'll gain confidence and counteract feelings of inadequacy.

Practice self-compassion

Treat yourself with kindness and compassion. Acknowledge that everyone has strengths and weaknesses. Embrace self-care practices, such as meditation, exercise, and hobbies, to reduce stress and foster a positive mindset.

And if you ever need to talk about it, feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to help.