15 Comments

Loved the grounding technique. Very useful and will try it next time.

Imposter syndrome is always lurking so it's better to be ahead ;)

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Thank you for breaking down the science behind imposter syndrome in such an understandable way! The connection between our brain's predictions and our feelings of inadequacy is fascinating. And the practical tips you shared – especially the grounding and reframing techniques – are absolute gold.

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Glad you found it useful Alexander.

It helps me realise why even with new evidence we might struggle to adopt it.

The effort is in updating those predictions so it becomes second nature.

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I have been struggling with imposter syndrome when I was a high school student and early in my journey of writing. So happy to read this piece. It came on time❤️🙏

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So glad it arrived at the right time for your Marwa. What will you try first to help you?

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Very structured layout for a topic that is difficult to give structure to. Very helpful techniques indeed. It felt like one needs to analyse one's thoughts and emotions separate from one self - to reduce the chance of the mind leading you into the wrong direction.

It also occurred to me that this syndrome may also be a cause of people judging others too quickly. Stereotyping for example which sometime is done because we are looking for easy answers.

I loved the statement "One thing I can't stand is wasted potential" - this was epic.

Well Done Sabrina

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Thanks for your thoughtful comment Tariq.

I'd say our beliefs and emotions are in the moment predictions - they are a form of our self. You're right that getting distance from the message to check if it's useful or not is the skill. If you know your values and what you're aiming for, the choice becomes easier.

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Thank you for all the great tips to help us deal with imposter syndrome because I can relate! Thank you, Sabrina, for allowing us to feel like we are not alone in this feeling!

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Glad you found it useful lotus. I've worked with a lot of people at all levels of experience and we're definitely not alone.

I have a friend who is externally very successful and was surprised when he shared the same concerns with me.

Good to talk about it openly so we move forward.

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I wonder whether we get imposter syndrome because leadership roles are so puffed up with fake importance?

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That's a great point Wendy.

There's added pressure with the puffing up but it's hard to explain why.

That dissonance could drive that imposter process - you don't really know how you're meant to be and why.

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Yes, it's confusing. And some people are very good at self promotion and puffing themselves up and others, not so good.

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Yeah it's the show offs that ruin it for everyone else!

Keep collecting evidence that challenges old predictions.

Over time it becomes more natural.

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To respond, not react, or overreact, is brilliant advice

We always choose our responses

Always

Think

Listen

Stay calm

Take your time

Consider consequences

Apply a filter if necessary

Don't let self-doubt creep in

Don't let strong emotions sway you

Keep your body language and voice low

Question the validity of your view and theirs

Look the other person in the eye with confidence

When you're ready to speak, recap their idea, then go for yours

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Love this summary Therese. Always able to get to the crux of it all!

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