Imposter Syndrome: Rewriting the Story

As we sensitive guys progress in the world, be it with a new job or promotion, or really anytime we take on something new, we can often overthink and question ourselves. It may go something like, “What am I doing in this role?” or "Why did they choose me, I don’t know how to do this job” or “Everyone else knows more than I do, and everyone knows I don’t know - they will see it”

But guess what? There is a reason you are in this new role - you are the reason. You are bringing something to the table that is uniquely you, and you can decide that you are going to be a success.  If you are really not a good fit people will let you know pretty quickly.  But look at what you do bring to the table - what qualities do you have that only you can bring. Maybe you are great with people and can build and grow work relationships. Maybe you are great with data, maybe you have an insanely strong work ethic, you always follow through and prioritize. People of very different mindsets and skills can be hugely successful bringing what they know. If there is something you do not know or if you are overburdened with tasks, can you delegate, ask questions, or collaborate with others with complementary skill sets?

1. Believe in yourself and try to envision what success looks like. How can you get there?

2. Is there a mentor or person who appears to be doing really well at what you are trying to do? Can you speak with them?

3. You attitude to learn and grow can really make an impression. Be open to and proactive about learning. Ask yourself questions, like How can I do this job in an excellent fashion?  Do I have the skills to do the job, what might I need that I do not have?  Do I need to learn something new?  Does someone already know it that I can talk to?  Is there a mentor?  Do I have sufficient resources to do this task? If not, can I delegate?

4. Be willing to ask for feedback and suggestions from your boss or others who you trust with more experience than you.

5. As you have "little victories" along the way, write them down so you can look back on your accomplishments. Often our biggest successes are a combination of many "small wins" over time.

6. Be willing to put in extra time to learn the ropes and apply a strong work ethic.
   

Imposter Syndrome is a mindset, and it can be shifted!

As a sensitive guy you may be attuned to the anxiety around the situation, but in the same vein you can channel or shift this anxiety into motivation to succeed. That and a strong work ethic can really change the landscape and perception with regard to Imposter Syndrome.