F*ck Imposter Syndrome
Demolish Self-Doubt and Build an Empire of Confidence
Ah, yes imposter Syndrome, I think it's something a lot of us have dealt with at some point or another in our life. Whether it's starting a new job or stepping into a new position, there's that self-doubt that creeps in. You know, you've worked hard to build up yourself and your skills, but once you're thrown into the fire it's time to deliver.
So what is imposter syndrome? Simply put, it’s the fear of being exposed as a fraud. It’s the belief that we’re not good enough, that we’re bound to fail, and that everyone is going to figure out that we’re faking it. But imposter syndrome is more than just self-doubt. It’s also closely related to the fear of failure and the fear of success.
So, what is the solution? Well, normally this is the part where I would add in the 4 or 5 steps and make this into a listicle of some sort, but honestly, there's no magic pill. It's more about willpower and power over your mind. You just have to fight through it.
You should be mad, you’ve earned this opportunity, this chance to do something and be great. You’re not a fraud, you just need to do the work. You owe it to yourself and the person who gave you that chance. You take it one step at a time, start at the beginning, and go from there. But don’t take my word for it…
Do you know who else suffered from imposter syndrome? Marcus Aurelius. The revered Roman emperor was also well renowned for being the Philosopher King.
“You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.”
“The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.”
“If you are distressed by anything external, the pain is not due to the thing itself, but to your estimate of it; and this you have the power to revoke at any moment.”
These are only a few impactful quotes from Marcus’s writings in Meditations. I have practiced stoic philosophy, which has helped me deal with my internal struggles and self-awareness. This is something that may help you as well.
So, when you have that moment, that feeling of doubt, and whether or not you belong, just take a step back and think of the great words of Marcus.
Become what you are destined to be.