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People Are Talking About It, So Let’s Do It – Imposter Syndrome



A black woman standing in a moving crowd in the train station


So, I’ll acknowledge it: I have a bit of difficulty with this concept. Yes, as a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, I have a clear understanding of the clinical components frequently referenced – and I still have difficulty. So, let’s talk about it …


A Peek at Imposter Syndrome

In a nutshell, imposter syndrome is described as feeling like a fraud despite abundant evidence of success. It's the sense of being undeserving of achievements and the esteem that comes with them. People with imposter syndrome often feel less competent and less intelligent, with a nagging concern that they will soon be "found out." Ironically, these are often high achievers who embody perfectionism and low self-efficacy.


Statistics show that nearly 70% of adults experience similar thoughts and feelings at some point in their lives.


Opening the Door to a New Perspective

I’m wondering if we can open the door (and a window) to create space for an alternative perspective – a concept that’s less pathologized and less glamorous. Yes, it’s a thing!

Imposter syndrome has become a buzzword, common in conversations among both youth and adults. It's trendy and commercialized. The problem is, this very common human experience has become pathologized and internalized as something inherently wrong within. Pathology has become, identity. Try replacing “imposter syndrome” with “adjustment” – and NOT adjustment disorder. Just plain, no-frills, no thrills, adjustment.


Advancement and Transitions

There’s something to be said about advancement, elevation, promotion, and transitions. They can bring a bit of angst – experiencing something new, spotlight attention, broader responsibility and expectations, walking into the unknown, etc. Experiencing angst is NORMAL, and a healthier response could include validation and exploration of the event or transition as a component of human experience, rather than pathologizing it.


Validation and exploration pave the way for a ‘period of adjustment,’ a more strength-based approach to understanding and supporting people through life's milestones. Much less pathologized and healthier for self-perception.


Validate the feeling of being overwhelmed by spotlight attention and accolades. Validate the angst of increased responsibility and expectations and thoughts surrounding one’s ability to rise to the occasion. Explore the meaning of promotion or transition. Explore the newness of spaces, developing new routines, and creating new relationships, juxtaposed to relinquishing the comfort and connection to familiar and safe spaces, faces, and patterns. Help people (kids and adults) see and acknowledge their capacity – demonstrated and potential. Accompany them in building from successes, knowledge, skill, and desire.


Examples of Achievement and Adjustment

Here are some common examples of achievements and milestones that could be validated and explored from the perspective of “allowing for adjustment and support”:


  • Youth being selected for the Science Team or Varsity Squad

  • First-time Home Buyer

  • Promotion from line staff to Supervisor

  • Receiving an Award, leading to subsequent speaking engagements

  • Transition from elementary school to middle school, from high school to college

  • A man becoming a husband, father, and business owner in the same year

  • A woman resigning from a stable government position to pursue independent practice and entrepreneurship


There’s so much more that can be said about this – but let’s just stop here for now. I feel myself getting on my soapbox!


Give Breath to Human Experience

Discomfort is NOT synonymous with pathology!

Okay – That’s it. I promise – I’m OFF the soapbox! lol


I think we’ll revisit this during the podcast – I need to hear from you!

For now, take this as a seed, and let’s see what sprouts! Adjustment or Imposter … think about it, talk about it, and let’s meet later in The Nook!

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