Do you often have feelings of low self-worth and poor self-esteem? Do you feel that you have tricked or deceived people to be where you are in your career? Do you often feel as though you’re not good enough for your partner or others you spend time with? You may be experiencing a phenomenon known as Imposter Syndrome, and you’re not alone.

What is Imposter Syndrome?

Imposter Syndrome is generally described as feeling that you do not deserve your successes and they’re not truly yours to claim. While Imposter Syndrome is not a diagnosable condition, it can often present as a syndrome of other mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety.

Imposter Syndrome is extremely common, to the point where many people will experience it in different degrees throughout their lives. However, it is particularly common in those who society sees as high-achievers who expect a lot from themselves.

How do I know if I am Experiencing Imposter Syndrome?

Imposter Syndrome has many faces and facets and presents slightly differently in every individual. However, some traits are commonly seen in those experiencing this challenging condition.

  • Fearing Failure and New Experiences– it is common to be worried about disappointing yourself and others when you do something new and difficult. But for people with Imposter Syndrome, this is magnified to the point where someone may avoid all new experiences because they are so concerned about not living up to their own high standards.
  • Perfectionism– people with Imposter Syndrome may worry excessively about the quality of their work and feel they ‘can’t do anything right’. This often stems from overly high standards rather than true faults.
  • Taking on Too Much – some people feel as though they must always say ‘yes’ to any extra work around the office, at school or at home. This can leave them feeling stressed and burdened, and further creates further feelings of inferiority.
  • Constant Self-Criticism –It is normal for people to have high standards for themselves. This can push us to be the best we can be. However, for people with Imposter Syndrome, this negative self-talk can be so continual and harsh that’s it’s actually detrimental to their mental health and productivity.
  • Trouble Accepting Praise– Imposter Syndrome can cause people to feel no praise they receive is legitimate or valid. It can manifest in continually dismissing compliments and being unable to believe positive feedback others give.

How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome with Life Resolutions

Coping with Imposter Syndrome can be incredibly challenging. It can easily undermine your self-worth and have a negative effect on your work, study, and relationships. The best way to combat the negative impact it can have is to ‘rewire’ your thoughts and feelings toward the positive rather than the negative.

Speaking to a mental health professional can help. These professionals are trained to help you understand where these feelings of low self-worth come from, and whether they are connected to an underlying condition such as depression or anxiety. They can then help you work on overcoming these feelings and get back on the path to your best and healthiest self.

The Life Resolutions Clinic

The team at Life Resolutions understand how difficult Imposter Syndrome can be to live with, and they would love to help you work through these feelings.

Although Melbourne is currently operating under COVID-19 restrictions, Life Resolutions clinics are offering Telehealth sessions in addition sessions in person. Telehealth allows us to work with both new and existing clients, and we would love to help you.

Seek advice from Mary Magalotti and Jodie Brenton Life Resolutions Today

For more information on our services, please contact Life Resolutionsand speak to our principal psychologist, Mary Magalotti or our CEO and founder,Jodie Brentonhere. Additionally,check out the Life Resolutions website to discover more about Jodie Brenton and Mary Magalotti at Life Resolutions and their work.