During a recent moment of inspiration, I found myself listening to Stanford’s convocation speeches. As I listened to each speaker's words, I couldn't help but imagine the impact such words would have on a first-year college student. One message, in particular, stood out—Dr. Mona Hicks, Senior Associate Vice Provost & Dean of Students, said, "You belong." Oh, the impact those simple words could have had on my college journey.
For a long time, when I was in college, I didn't think I belonged. I felt lost in a sea of people, unsure of myself, and it was as if I didn't know how to study and whom to ask for advice anymore. As a first-generation college student, no one before me could fully describe what I would be going through, nor could they understand my struggles despite their best attempts. I wish someone had told me "I belonged" during my new student orientation.
Those two words have so much meaning, especially when experiencing imposter syndrome. Whether we realize it or not, we’ve all experienced imposter syndrome. Have you ever felt like you don't deserve your success? That's called imposter syndrome. It's when we doubt ourselves and think our achievements aren't because of our hard work or skills. It can happen when we start a new school, job, or relationship. Basically, we feel like we're not good enough and that, eventually, everyone will find out. Imposter syndrome can cause anxiety, depression, and much stress. It's not a great feeling, but it's something we can work on.
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
Develop Awareness
The first step in conquering imposter syndrome is to build awareness of how you feel in new situations. For example, you will react by avoiding the situation or doubting yourself if you experience fear or lack confidence, especially in new situations. PAUSE and assess your feelings and the facts about why you’ve reached this thought pattern. This takes practice, so don’t worry if you don’t always catch yourself experiencing imposter syndrome or realizing this is happening.
Change Your Narrative
Create a thought checklist for changing negative thought patterns.
Is this thought based on facts or feelings?
Is this thought helpful in reaching my goals?
Is this thought helping me feel the way I want to feel?
See the new experience/feelings/thoughts as an opportunity to learn something new and gain new skills. Practice doing something new, and know it will become easier as time passes.
Don’t forget to celebrate your accomplishments along the way! Take yourself to lunch, take the weekend off, and spend some time with family and friends - as long as you do something you enjoy.
Imposter syndrome affects all of us; you are not alone in experiencing it and are more capable than you realize. Believe in yourself, cultivate self-awareness, and rewrite the narrative of your success. Remember, it's okay not to get it right on the first try; it's all part of your journey to try new things and realize that you truly belong in your new environment.
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