Can Imposter Syndrome be a good thing?

The term 'imposter syndrome' carries with it a weight of negativity. It's as though we find ourselves veiled behind a curtain, nestled in the shadows, sustaining a facade deemed necessary for the applause and accolades that sustain our roles. Yet, amidst this facade lies a fear — the fear of inadequacy, of being unmasked.

Curiously, however, this syndrome suggests an intricate dance between authenticity and artifice. It suggests an acute awareness of how to perform, how to embody the roles we've crafted to navigate the world we perceive. In truth, we possess the knowledge and skill that others acknowledge, propelling us into the positions we occupy. While the world may believe in our capabilities, we alone harbor doubts.

Interestingly, within this perceived weakness lies a concealed strength. The relentless pursuit to compensate for our perceived deficiencies propels us to strive, to evolve continually.  

Why, then, does this discomfort persist? The physical effect appears as reflexively fortifying itself to manage the perceived ‘danger’, preparing for fight, flight or freeze. Cortisol surges, breathing accelerates, muscles tense, and vision narrows. The thought of being an ‘imposter’ easily leads to perceived danger, and our body supports these narratives. And that makes our body react into a very uncomfortable situation, and it feels like there is no choice but to go down to that rabbit hole.  

Two paths emerge: one of surrender to the gnawing doubt, and another of conscious choice.

What if we were to greet imposter syndrome with gratitude? We could choose to thank our inner imposter, recognizing its role in propelling us to our present achievements. Reflect on our past triumphs, the lives touched by our endeavors, and observe how our emotion shifts. Redirecting our focus to these accomplishments, we can find solace, contentment, and the promise of unlimited choices in front of us.

Much like training our muscles or mastering a skill, shifting our emotional landscape demands practice and effort.  The key lies in practice, in honing this art of emotional alchemy, especially when the time is easy. Cultivating this habit of intentional emotional transformation can herald profound shifts — in ourselves, in the people around us, and to support more success on your forward path.