Imposter Syndrome
“I don’t know if I belong in college.”
I know that can be hard to admit, but a lot of people feel that way. Even (believe it or not) your professors!! The dictionary defines “imposter syndrome” as “persistent doubt concerning one's abilities or accomplishments.” That might be what you’re going through. It’s not a psychological disorder— just a very basic human emotion that almost everyone feels at some point in their lives! Take a look at the slide show and resources below for more info and help feeling better. Remember— you do belong here!!
Journal about it!
Here are a couple of things to help you write privately about your feelings about school and success. You don’t have to share them with anyone else, but you can if you want to!
Think about times you achieved success (this was mentioned in the slideshow). Remembering times you’ve shone in the past will help you feel better about yourself now!
Replacing negative self-talk. This will help you think of alternatives to the negative messages your mind is sending you. This works a lot better than just trying to shut your thinking up!
This page has 14 worksheets about imposter syndrome and negative feelings about school and work performance to choose from, if the two above don’t interest you!
More Resources:
Ask a Professor: How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome. Interviews with established professors from all disciplines and all walks of life.
Amy Cuddy’s TED Talk on how changing your body language can improve your confidence!
Student YouTube Video on Imposter Syndrome
“I still sometimes feel like a loser kid in high school and I just have to pick myself up and tell myself that I’m a superstar every morning so that I can get through this day and be for my fans what they need for me to be.”
—Lady Gaga