Introduction
We’ve all experienced imposter syndrome at least once at some point in our lives. It’s that feeling that you don’t belong, can’t keep up, and are doomed to fail. It’s constantly in the back of your mind as you contemplate a big change, like switching your career path via a UK university program. But with the right strategies and support, you can manage and overcome impostor syndrome and achieve your goals.
What is Imposter Syndrome?
Impostor syndrome can be described as a mix of different feelings and thoughts that can cause a person to think they are not worthy of their successes, or undeserving of their accomplishments. People experiencing imposter syndrome typically feel like a fraud, as if their achievements are not truly their own. They could be feeling success is due to luck or hard work, but not skills or talent.
Common experiences include feeling like everyone else is smarter or more talented, or that everyone knows something that you don’t. You could also be feeling like you’re constantly waiting for the other shoe to drop, that you’ll one day be discovered for not being good enough.
Imposter syndrome can be a construct for many different types of people, like those who are switching careers and taking on a new part of their lives. It’s common in anyone who feels out of place or is taking big steps forward with their professional life.
Who experiences Imposter Syndrome?
Anyone can experience imposter syndrome, although it’s more common in high achieving individuals. It can be difficult to shake the feeling that you’re not good enough, no matter how much evidence there is to the contrary.
Some research suggests women and minorities are especially affected, as they often have to work on and prove themselves more than their male counterparts. People in roles that are usually dominated by a set gender or background may also be more likely to experience imposter syndrome.
Ways to Overcome Imposter Syndrome
The good news is, there are dozens of ways to cope with imposter syndrome. Some of the following might help you find your footing and reach the goals you’ve set for yourself in a UK university program.
Focus on Learning, Not Perfection
When switching careers, it’s important to focus on your overall goals and how you can reach them. For example, if you’ve decided to pursue a Master’s degree in finance at a UK university, it’s ok to make mistakes along the way. Learning can take time, and you should feel free to take it.
Talk to Your Peers
Having conversations with other students in the same program can help you normalize any doubts or anxieties you’re having about taking the plunge into a new career. Knowing that everyone is in the same situation can help to alleviate some of your imposter syndrome.
Identify Your Successes
It’s important to recognize your successes on the way to switching careers. Though it might feel insignificant, write down each success and reflect upon it. That way, when imposter syndrome strikes, it’ll be easier to acknowledge the successes you’ve had.
Match Your Accomplishments to Your Effort
It’s important to examine if the successes you’ve had are a reflection of actual effort that you’ve put in. Try to connect the dots between the tasks you have carried out and the successes that you have achieved in the process.
Focus on What You Will Gain from Switching Careers
Everyone who sets out to switch their career has their own motivations. Focusing on the long-term goals that you want to achieve can help to renew your sense of motivation to continue.
Change Your Mindset
This is a personal tip that has helped many people to overcome imposter syndrome. To be successful in a career switch, it’s necessary to adopt the mindset of an ongoing learner and explorer. Doing this will make the transition much easier, allowing you to explore different creative ways of doing things.
Find a Mentor
Getting advice from those who have already succeeded in the career that you’re considering switching to can be invaluable. Whether it’s a university professor or a successful professional, having someone to look up to and rely on can help you on your journey.
Set Goals and Celebrate Accomplishments
Don’t be afraid to break down big goals into smaller, achievable goals. Celebrate each accomplishment, be it a paper you’ve finished writing or a course you’ve completed, as it works towards the overall goal of getting a degree in the UK.
Conclusion
Imposter syndrome can cause a variety of feelings, including self-doubt, inadequacy, and fear of failure. But with the right strategies and support, you can manage and even overcome impostor syndrome so that you can achieve your goals and successfully switch careers. The tips mentioned are some of the most widely used techniques to overcome imposter syndrome, but it’s important to find the ones that work best for your individual experiences.
Finally, it’s worth remembering that imposter syndrome is a common experience, and many people have gone through, or gone on to go through, the same thing. You’re not alone, and you can overcome it.
FAQs
What is imposter syndrome?
Impostor syndrome can be described as a mix of different feelings and thoughts that can cause a person to think they are not worthy of their successes, or undeserving of their accomplishments. People experiencing imposter syndrome typically feel like a fraud, as if their achievements are not truly their own.
How can I overcome imposter syndrome in a career change?
Coping with imposter syndrome can be difficult, however there are some strategies which may help. Focus on learning, not perfection, talk to your peers, identify successes, match accomplishments to effort, focus on the gains of switching careers, change your mindset, and find a mentor.
Who experiences imposter syndrome?
Anyone can experience imposter syndrome, however it’s more commonly seen in high achieving individuals. It can also be prevalent amongst women and minorities. People in roles that are usually dominated by a set gender or background may also be more likely to experience imposter syndrome.
