How to Confront the 5 Types of Imposter Syndrome

How can you beat imposter syndrome?

I think the “whys” could be different — in my humble opinion.
Some people would say that’s imposter syndrome.
I prefer talking about insecurities — or lack of self-esteem.
But let’s see how we can deal with the 5 types of imposter syndrome.

1.    The Expert

Here’s when people think they should know everything about their field.
If there is more to learn, they feel like a fraud.
They start doubting their expertise.
And they also hesitate to embrace their accomplishments as an expert.

In this case, what they should do is this:
→    Embrace lifelong learning
→    Acknowledge expertise as a journey, not a destination

2.    The Soloist

Here’s when people feel inadequate by asking for help.
They think something like this:
→    “If I can’t attain a certain level on my own, I’m not competent.”
→    “If I rely on others, I don’t deserve my accomplishments.”

In this case, what they should do is this:
→    Recognize that asking for help is a strength

3. The Superperson

Here’s when people feel they need to attain the highest levels of success.
Like they should be a Superperson.

In this case, what they should do is this:
→    Shift focus from external achievements to internal growth
→    Cultivate self-compassion

                                                                                                                                            4. The Perfectionist

Here’s when people hold themselves to an impossibly high standard.

If they’re not absolutely perfect:
→    They believe they could have done better
→    They start doubting their worth
→    They fear others will see through their perceived flaws
→    They feel they’re not good enough…

In this case, what they should do is this:
→    Embrace the concept of “progress” over “perfection”
→    Value their effort
→    Accepting the fact they can learn more from mistakes than successes

5.    The Natural Genius

Here’s when people think intelligence and competence should come effortlessly.

They think something like this:
→    “If things don’t click immediately, maybe I’m not…”

In this case, what they should do is this:
→    Embracing the process of learning and growth (the process!)
→    Accepting the fact that mastery needs patience (but not passivity!)

As we’ve seen, the words “growth” and “learn” are pretty common in these 5 types.

That’s why I think we need to move from
→    dealing with imposter syndrome
to
→    cultivating our self-esteem