Controlling Imposter Syndrome through Psychotherapy

Picture this: You're preparing a presentation for an upcoming event. You want to transform your ideas into words, but you can't write anything because of your inner critic shouting at you, " You don't even know about the subject matter. Why would anyone spend an hour listening about something that is utter trash?"

Ever get that 'I am good for nothing' feeling?

If you're nodding yes to the above, you may have something called 'Imposter Syndrome'. 

What is Imposter Syndrome?

Imposter syndrome was something that was created for the general public. But who really picked up on it were people in Corporate America - folks who had become very successful going to Harvard, going to Yale, going to Morehouse, going to Princeton, etc. Individuals who were successful in their respective areas of specialization. 

Still felt as though people discovered who they really were. They would leave them, reject them, and not accept them as they are. There is that constant feeling of insecurity and a sense of fear that you can't achieve anything noticeable in your life. 

At this point, you might get advice to focus on the syndrome and get rid of it. But this is just surface-level thinking. 

Imposter syndrome is created to deeper psychological issues that have been developed in childhood or adulthood. That leads to one questioning their self-worth. Growing out of it can be more challenging than you have ever imagined.  But as I always say, it is possible. 

Ways to Defeat Imposter Syndrome

Here’s how you can overcome Imposter Syndrome

Break the Silence

Stress and anxiety keep you away from admitting that you're not feeling secure. When you get a listener, make sure you break the silence and speak your heart out. 

Distinguish Between Thoughts and Facts

No matter how many mistakes you make, remember, we all make mistakes at some point. It's common. But feeling too awkward for that can ruin your self-esteem and confidence. Make mistakes, learn from them, and do not repeat them. 

Admit that You’re Different

If you have a unique personality, take it positively. Be a leader instead of an imposter. 

Do Not Obsess Over Perfectionism

Obsession over perfectionism may lead to self-criticism. Give your best shot and celebrate your victory even if you have not achieved 100% results.

Positive Visualization

Visualize your past successful projects as this practice will help you feel confident about your ongoing endeavors and future tasks. 

Know Your Worth

Even if nobody on the planet admires you for your efforts, remember, you're capable of doing so much. If you fail to achieve the desired results today, the future is yours. Know your worth. You Can Do It.

How Can Psychotherapy Help You Stop Feeling Like a fraud?

As I said, imposter syndrome isn't something that emerges from nowhere. Also, it isn't something that you can get rid of with any medication. It is linked to deeper emotions. The idea that you're fake can be associated with a feeling of insecurity that people around you will not accept you as you are. 

The biggest challenge for someone undergoing feelings of insecurity is self-isolation. People suffering from this syndrome do not prefer to socialize and talk with others assuming they're going to be found out by others. Counseling is the first step towards getting hold of your inner emotions and building confidence. It helps you realize that you're not alone. 

Getting an opportunity to discuss your concerns with someone neutral will help you overcome the personality disorders you have in your professional, personal, and social settings.

Challenge the Syndrome 

Personalized counseling provides you space where you can identify where the feeling of 'not being good enough' comes from. With this information at hand, you can better cope with the feelings of being undeserving.

How Can I Help?

In my one-to-one personalized psychotherapy sessions, what I’ll be doing is helping to correct, fix, and heal some of that earlier life hurts, those teenage hurts, those past 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s adverse life experiences and regrets that have impacted your self-esteem and self-confidence. 

The goal of these sessions is to help people suffering from imposter syndrome to believe in themselves, leading them to a place where they feel they belong in an empowered state. 

For further discussion or to book an appointment, feel free to visit my website.