When You Feel Like You Don’t Belong

When You Feel Like You Don’t Belong

Impostor feelings can show up as self-doubt even when there is evidence that you are capable. A person may dismiss their achievements as luck, worry that others will discover they are not good enough, or set exhausting standards for themselves.

These experiences vary widely and “impostor syndrome” is not a diagnosis you should make from an online checklist. Research also uses different definitions and measures, so simple claims about how many people experience it can be misleading.

Helpful reflections may include:
• Write down specific feedback and achievements rather than dismissing them.
• Separate being new or still learning from being a fraud.
• Talk with a trusted colleague, mentor or friend.
• Notice whether perfectionism is making reasonable work feel inadequate.
• Allow yourself to acknowledge effort as well as outcomes.

If persistent self-doubt is affecting your mood, sleep, relationships or work, consider speaking with a qualified mental-health professional.