June 17th 2024.
Published on October 27, 2020, the concept of Impostor Syndrome is a common internal struggle that many people face. It's the feeling of not being as competent as others perceive you to be, and it can greatly impact those who are looking to make a transition in their lives. This can be in any area, whether it's a career change, a new relationship, or a personal goal. However, for Black individuals, Impostor Syndrome is not just a temporary feeling, but rather a way of life. We are constantly bombarded with reminders that we don't belong, whether it's through subtle microaggressions at work, being excluded from networking events, or facing discrimination from law enforcement.
Being the only Black person in a department or company can make overcoming Impostor Syndrome even more challenging. It's hard enough to feel inadequate and isolated, but when you don't see anyone who looks like you or can relate to your experiences, it can feel almost impossible to overcome. However, there is hope. Here are five ways to combat Impostor Syndrome and believe in yourself:
First and foremost, remember that you are not alone. No matter how isolated you may feel, God is always with you. As Michael Patterson, CEO of M & S Patterson Life Consulting, advises, surround yourself with people who will support and invest in your talents. For those who are religious or spiritual, faith can be a powerful tool in guiding you through your transition.
Next, have confidence in yourself. How you see yourself will often determine how others see you. As Corey Jackson, CEO of Querkz, suggests, make others qualify themselves to you instead of the other way around. Believe that you are good enough, because you are.
It's also important to take control of your environment. Unfortunately, many environments are not created with Black or brown individuals in mind. As Aaisha Joseph, CEO of Aaisha Renee Consulting, points out, our white counterparts may receive more support and opportunities than we do. Therefore, it's crucial to create the right environment for yourself. Surround yourself with a strong inner circle who will support you and help you succeed.
Remember that no one is perfect. It's common to feel like we have to be flawless before making a transition, but that's not the case. As long as you believe in yourself and do your best, you will succeed. Don't be afraid to learn as you go, because that's how all successful people have achieved their goals.
Lastly, don't forget your past achievements. When you are faced with a new challenge, it can be easy to doubt yourself. However, think back to all the things you have accomplished in the past. Even if they seem unrelated to your current goals, there is usually a link between them. Just like how David's experience as a shepherd gave him the confidence to defeat Goliath and become king, your past achievements can give you the courage to step into your new identity.
It's no secret that Black professionals often have fewer resources and support systems than our white counterparts. However, that should not stop us from reaching our goals. We can't wait for opportunities to come to us; we must create them. This is why it's important to pool our resources and create our own support systems. Remember, to overcome Impostor Syndrome, we must believe in ourselves, surround ourselves with supportive people, and have faith in God who always has our backs.
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