Imposter syndrome is a tricky topic because it makes you feel like you’re not doing enough or not good enough. Imposter syndrome in tech makes you believe that no matter what you do, despite your accomplishments, you don’t belong. That there is someone more qualified that should be in your position. These past few weeks have tested my skills and have made me doubt what I thought I wanted, from working on my capstone project and interviewing for jobs (and getting offers!).
Here are a few tips on combatting imposter syndrome and managing it. If you’re like me, the feeling of imposter syndrome, like anxiety, will never go away. You can, however, quiet the noise in your head and channel it into something more productive.
Tip # 1: Recognize it
Here’s a great video I came across while trying to put my feelings into words.
“It’s okay to be out of your depth somethings. So long as you don’t freeze. Try to turn it into a force for good. It’s important to say harness here… it’s merely about being aware of it.”
Tip #2: Meditate
Meditating will help you calm your thoughts and give you more opportunities to recognize it.
Tip #3: Embrace it
Embracing it can look different to everyone. It maybe be acknowledging you don’t know something or not being afraid to ask clarifying questions to someone much more knowledgeable than you. Embracing it means making the most out of the situation and adopting an …”and” mindset. “I am stuck AND I will take these steps to get to a solution.”
Imposter syndrome can be paralyzing, but I think being present is the best thing you can do for yourself. I recently received an offer to work as a software engineer from a large defense company and a verbal offer from an up and coming startup biotech company. I informed the company I was in the process of interviewing with of my status and they expedited the interview process. I felt very uneasy as I told them and wondered if they even want me still. I’ve made a nice pro/con list on what I want and am struck with imposter syndrome (that I got an offer in the first place and another company that potentially wants me on their team). I’ll be using these tips to evaluate my next steps.
Tip #4: You’re not alone
If you watched the youtube video, recall that the speaker was surprised when someone with more experienced as him also felt like an impostor. That means that no matter your success, you could be feeling like this at some point in their life. More success does not mean less impostor syndrome. At the end of the day, know that you’re not alone and you will get through this!
I hope these tips were helpful as you navigate through your career. At least you know you’re not alone.
