Confession: I've had impostor syndrome since I was a teenager (meaning: well over 35 years).
And I’m okay with it.
It’s actually normal to:
Feel like you don't know what you're doing when pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone.
Compare yourself to those who are ahead of you (that you want to be like). It’s part of what lights a fire in you to learn more, do better and so on.
Wonder if you are good enough when doing something challenging (it’s what spurs you to excel and become an expert).
Especially if you are a high-achiever.
But here is what isn't good: obsessing over it while thinking you shouldn't feel this way (or that something must be wrong with you).
What can you do to normalize these feelings (and not let them get the best of you)?
#1: Accept.
Feeling this way is normal. Nothing is wrong with you. Time to accept it (instead of trying to push how you feel away as abnormal).
#2: Talk.
Time to STOP keeping how you feel a secret and instead talk to peers about how you feel. Because you’ll quickly find out how often others feel the same way.
Which helps you to further accept that this is normal. This is one of the most freeing things you can do (so do NOT skip it!).
#3: Embrace.
Embrace why you feel this way in the first place, because it means that:
Which means you’ll be better for it.
Own it.
#4: Celebrate.
You heard me, Friend, celebrate.
Congratulate yourself for being a high-achiever who is willing to do hard things.
#5: Manage.
This part is about managing your mind. Incorporate daily habits designed to help you manage your mind (like reframing and gratitude).
This step is key for getting more comfortable with feeling this way (I call it getting comfortable with discomfort).
XO,
Heather
P.S. Are you a private practice lawyer who sometimes feels like an impostor when trying to pitch your legal services? You’re not alone - most lawyers I talk to say they feel awkward, pushy, salesy and totally inauthentic when selling.
Which is why I’m covering my top sales pitch secrets on today’s edition of the Life & Law Podcast. Listen >>> here.
