Imposter syndrome is that annoying feeling where you doubt your skills and achievements, constantly fearing that you’ll be exposed as a fraud. Even with all the qualifications and certifications, you might still think, “This time, they’re going to find out I’m not good enough!”

Sounds a bit ridiculous, right?

But it's very real and thankfully, it's being talked about more now.

Here are some tips on how to manage your imposter syndrome:

1. Positive Self-Talk

Are you your own worst critic? We often talk to ourselves in ways we’d never talk to anyone else. Changing this self-talk can make a huge difference. Encourage yourself like you would a friend. Your body hears what your mind says; if it’s true that we get what we focus on, then there is an intrinsic link in how damaging or nurturing our inner self-talk is and the self-perceived confidence that it contributes towards.

2. Develop a Growth Mindset
   

A fixed mindset believes that skills and talents are set in stone, while a growth mindset believes in the ability to develop and improve. Focus on the latter. Embrace mistakes as learning opportunities and recognise that you’re always a work in progress. This shift in thinking helps manage imposter syndrome by accepting that growth and improvement are ongoing processes.

3. Manage Negative Thought Spirals

Life can be chaotic, and it often feels like we’re not in control, yet one thing we can control is our thinking. Susan Jeffers, in "Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway," writes that over 90% of our worries never come true. So, when those negative thoughts creep in, begin to recognise them and once you’re able to do that, move on to replacing them with a thought that is more positive, constructive or rational.

4. Reflect on Your Wins

Our brain tends to focus on failures more than successes. Take time to consciously recall your achievements, no matter how small. Celebrating these wins builds confidence and helps shift your focus from the negative to the positive.

5. Tune Into Your Body

Our brain is always sending signals to our body, and throughout our physiology, often alerting us to stress or danger. Instead of ignoring these signals, acknowledge them. They can help you recognise when imposter syndrome is trying to take over, allowing you to address it with logic and reason.

6. Be 'Flawsome'

Perfection is an unrealistic goal. Instead of striving for it, accept your flaws and be authentic. People respond well to honesty and vulnerability. Embrace what you’re great at and be open about where you’re still learning. This balance can help ease the pressure you put on yourself. Be your flawsome self.

7. Take Control of Your Narrative

Acknowledge your imposter syndrome for trying to keep you safe, then move on to remind yourself of the reality. Tell your imposter, “Thank you for the concern, but I’ve handled things well before and I will this time too.” By doing this, you take control and reinforce the positive experiences over the negative ones.

Tackling imposter syndrome is something that more and more people want to do something about. Focus on the one, two or three of these tips that most resonate with you and start making tiny tweaks and adjustments that will help you to manage your imposter syndrome.