Please Stop Calling it Impostor Syndrome

Hey there -

If you’ve ever felt like you’ve been waiting to get ‘found out’... 

You’re not alone. 

Anticipating the inevitable moment when someone tells you, “You don't really belong in this job” is more common than you might think (even more so for women.)

That voice in your head is usually referred to as Impostor Syndrome. 

But this is not a diagnosis! It is not a cognitive disorder. There is nothing wrong with you (or me.) 

It is, however, a cognitive distortion. 

The term was coined in the 70s and describes a belief system that says your competence isn't real, despite external evidence to the contrary. Many people will attribute their success to luck, other people, or their horoscope on a particular day. (Please don’t do any of that.)

Which is why I  wish you (and I) would stop using the term. Not because it isn’t valid - there are decades of research behind it. The feelings are real, and they can be exhausting. 

My problem with the term is two-fold. 

First, the label gets in the way of curiosity. When we stop investigating, we stop exploring what else could be true. This often leads us to embrace the feelings of inadequacy. 

Not helpful. 

Second, the only thing it’s doing is giving you an umbrella term for things that are very common and very human. 

The discomfort of trying something new. The visibility that comes with a bigger role. The stretch involved in taking on a special project.  The responsibility of leading others for the first time. 

Feeling uncertain in these situations isn't a ‘syndrome.’ They’re situations in which anyone would feel some level of fear, doubt, or insecurity.  Sometimes we don't feel ready because we aren’t. 

Calling that Impostor Syndrome turns an ordinary, temporary condition into a character flaw.

You are not your thoughts, and feelings aren't facts. 

This week’s call to action is this: When you feel Impostor Syndrome creeping in, take a step back and look at the facts of the situation instead. 

Have a great week! 

S

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