Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give your younger self?

Article by Sonia Blacker

I recently had a colleague approach me about their career They spoke about feelings of self-doubt and imposter syndrome. While others see the abilities of this person, they could not, and despite having qualifications, solid experience and career accomplishments, they often feel incompetent and question their abilities

There are a lot of opinions and thoughts out there on this topic, and it is no surprise that many people experience these feelings, my colleague is not alone! I’d like to explore the recognition of these feelings, why people have them and what can be done to overcome them.

Self-doubt and imposter syndrome is the experience of feelings of phoniness and when you may think you don't deserve your job. It can make you feel like you're tricking others into thinking you're good at your job

Don’t question yourself, ask others the questions!

Hindsight is a wonderful thing and comes from lived experiences and learned outcomes The uncomfortable situations we find ourselves in from time to time are where the most learning happens

Learning about ourselves and about our area of expertise Knowledge can help to overcome feelings of self-doubt, and so can outlook

Your perspective shapes your outlook. Your back- ground, your historical experiences, the way you were brought up, all contribute to your perspective. Let go of previous negative interactions, mistakes, grudges and failures, and ask yourself if they matter now. Use this energy to move forward.

I’ve collated some further points to consider for anyone who questions their knowledge and abilities:

Understand that nothing in the plan you make for yourself may happen the way you anticipated

You don’t have to learn all of the lessons on your own ask for help and seek insights from others

Consider the context, reframe these moments of insecurity as learning opportunities

Be kind to yourself, everyone makes mistakes

Focus on the process, this will help you feel more in control

Is this worry all that you ’ ve built it up to be?

If you don’t know the answers, know where to get the answers

What would you be telling your best friend who shared their fears with you?

When you have 15 minutes, I recommend that you check out this TED talk with Atlassian CEO, Mike CannonBrookes, “How you can use imposter syndrome to your benefit”

Myadvicetomyyoungerselfis…

1 Continue to care By caring you’ll learn, and by learning you’ll overcome self-doubt

2 Stay true to yourself, be who you are, not who others want you to be

3 You are not alone, talk to others about how you are feeling