No Frauds

I recall persistent feelings of uncertainty with ability to appropriately care for patients after I graduated. I had begun my career as a full time Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I didn't know why those feelings existed. I rationalized them by telling myself I was new to the field and had more to learn. I attempted to cope by refreshing my knowledge and obtaining more continuing education credits. Equating me questioning my skills, to actually "lacking skills." In turn, I'd be overwhelmed with information and added pressure to meet cloudy expectations.

Being one of the only black women in my office and only social worker, added even more stress. Having to police myself while being careful to make sure "I knew what I was doing" started to become a never ending internal battle. One night I randomly scrolled through one of my social media pages saw the words "Imposter Syndrome..." in an article headline. My curiosity wondered so I googled the words and immediately felt validated. I knew those feelings were not just in my head.

What is Imposter Syndrome?

Imposter syndrome is a "psychological term referring to a pattern of behavior where people doubt their accomplishments and often have internalized fear of being exposed as a fraud." Basically, a false belief that you lack knowledge or capability when there's sufficient evidence to prove those beliefs are false. 

Imposter Syndrome Categories

Dr. Valerie Young, who has expertise on the subject, categorized Imposter Syndrome into five different subgroups. The categories are listed below:

1. The Perfectionist-everything just has to be perfect. 

2. The Superwoman/man-taking on the extra workload to overcompensate.

3. The Natural Genius-not only striving to be perfect but also to be exceptional. Having to get things right on the first try.

4. The Soloist-never asking for help.

5. The Expert-not knowing enough and constantly seeking more information to prove skill set.

Ways to Combat Imposter Syndrome

I believe imposter syndrome presents with all types of professional transitions. New career opportunities, post graduation and I feel it especially happens with people of color. Here are a few ways to fight through those feelings and false perceptions.

1. Acknowledge what you're feeling. 

2. Know you are not alone. Most people have experienced this at some point in their life.

3. Recognize your achievements. By acknowledging your achievements you are simply saying "This is what I bring to the table." & there's nothing wrong with celebrating what you've accomplished and are proud of.

4. Find ways to highlight your strengths.

5. Do an honest self assessment of where you could use growth. When you notice where your struggle areas exist, you can focus more on improving what actually needs work, versus making changes that aren't necessarily "proven" areas of personal weakness.

6. Change your mind frame. So many people (including myself at times) allow our negative thoughts to take over. These thoughts affect the way we feel about ourselves and the way we act. (Gotta reference CBT right?) Develop positive affirmations to help when those negative thoughts try to creep in. Also, use these affirmations to remind yourself- "these thoughts are not valid & this is why..."

7. Seek support. This could be in the form of a professional mentor, supervisor or even a therapist.

Imposter Syndrome is common and I hope this post makes you feel better by helping you recognize you are not alone.

Resources

Blog 

https://www.fastcompany.com/40421352/the-five-types-of-impostor-syndrome-and-how-to-beat-them

https://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/overcoming-impostor-syndrome.htm

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/real-women/201809/the-reality-imposter-syndrome

Pictures 

https://medium.com/23codestreet/stop-imposter-syndrome-holding-you-back-2bea20b24603

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