Work

Guest Post by Ioana Lazarov – The workplace is a platform where characters and strengths are built, new friendships are formed and achievement potential is uncovered. But for those who see ourselves in a less favourable light, assuming achievement is a result of “some mysterious fluke or luck or great effort” (Clance, 1985, p. 9), the deep and destructive internalized conviction can lead to the most debilitating effects.

Often times, starting a new career can present us with some physical and psychological difficulties and overwhelming feelings of anxiety can dominate our every thought.

The occupational emphasis on performance added to a role that may represent a personal and professional challenge often requires a speedy adjustment to the new team, work schedule and the new area or location. This can push us to feel on shaky grounds and unfamiliar territories.

Most companies and organisations have a set regular performance review agenda with detailed feedback on your progress from both superiors and peers. However, when impostor feelings persistently make their presence, the sapped anticipatory enthusiasm becomes spirit-deadening, turning every positive comment into self-doubting your intellectual ability or suitability for the new role.

This often leads to misinterpret any constructive criticism, the pervasive fear of being discovered as a fraud exacerbates, translating into taxing behaviours such as over-preparation or procrastination.

A term first coined in 1978 by clinical psychologists Pauline Rose Clance and Suzanne Imes, the Impostor Phenomenon has been in the interest of many scientist and researchers. This fructuous labour has provided insight into the triggers of the impostor feelings and aided the development of coping strategies.

Additionally to extensive article publications surrounding the Impostor Phenomenon, here are some self-reflective techniques that might be useful:

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