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Sure, you got a job after an interview, or you got a promotion because of your hard work, or you passed all the exams and got into a new college - all evidence shows that you deserve to be where you are, but sometimes, you still ask yourself, "Do I belong here?"

Impostor syndrome is a phenomenon that could either result in extreme motivation or the exact opposite. While it can affect anyone, past studies have found it to be common in more successful women. 

The phenomenon is characterized by self-doubt, an overwhelming fear of not being able to live up to expectations, and an inability to realistically assess one's capabilities. While some people experiencing impostor syndrome end up overachieving, others end up sabotaging their own success.

(Photo : Sander Sammy / Unsplash)

How to Overcome Impostor Syndrome

Having impostor syndrome often stems from the pressure to succeed. So you can ask yourself if you are getting pressure from your family, friends, or colleagues, or is it a result of some recent or past event? Whatever it is, understanding why it happens is the key to overcoming it. 

What You Can Do

The first thing to remember is that you are not alone. In a review done in 2019, anywhere from 9 to 82 percent of people were reported to have experienced impostor syndrome. 

Acknowledging your feelings and communicating them with peers can help you overcome it. At the same time, when you make an effort to build your confidence, the feeling of being an impostor slowly disappears. 

However, it is also important to remember that confidence does not equal competence. So you can think about your past accomplishments to help build it realistically. Finally, avoid comparing yourself with others, and do not forget that everyone has different abilities and potential.