In this realm of technology, where innovation and expertise thrive, many of us have faced a nagging sense of inadequacy at some point in our journey. It’s a phenomenon known as imposter syndrome.
Imposter Syndrome meaning
A persistent feeling that despite our accomplishments, we don’t truly belong, our successes are merely flukes, and any recognition we receive is undeserved.
Have you ever found yourself questioning your abilities, doubting whether you’re truly cut out for the tech world? Have you downplayed your achievements, attributing them to luck rather than skill and hard work? If so, you’re not alone. In this article, I will share my personal experience, insights, and strategies for overcoming these self-limiting beliefs as a beginner in tech.
My Story
Transitioning from a non-tech background to front-end development was not an easy feat. It was filled with fear, self-doubt, feelings of inadequacy, and intimidation. There were so many concepts and technologies to learn, and varying roadmaps to follow.
I was so confused until a friend gave me an Udemy course by Colt Steele which built a strong foundation for my front-end coding. I not only gained valuable skills but also built beginner projects. I was doing okay except that I didn't feel it internally. My projects were getting interesting, and my skills sharpening but I wasn't acknowledging them and that was imposter syndrome.
Every line of code seemed like a potential mistake, and every project was completed like a stroke of luck. Every tiny bug made me doubt myself, so I had to look for a way out. They were major issues I started having when I developed this "fraud" syndrome as referred to by National Institute of Health, these issues will be explained in the next section.
Consequences of Imposter Syndrome
Low Confidence level: This is a common tech-industry challenge for newbies. The continuous self-doubt associated with impostor syndrome leads to decreased self-confidence and reluctance to take on new challenges.
Fear of Failure: There's often an excessive fear of making mistakes with imposters in tech and any other field. This occurs due to perfectionism. Most people experiencing imposter syndrome usually want everything to be perfect. It is okay to strive for excellence but that should focus on the overall outcome rather than the "how".
Procrastination: This is a product of fear, and might lead to delays of tasks, and general weakness.
Stress and Anxiety: Continuous worry about being exposed as a fraud can lead to heightened stress levels.
Career Stagnation: Avoiding opportunities for advancement due to feeling undeserving or unqualified.
Burnout: Overworking to prove oneself can lead to burnout and health breakdown.
Isolation: This occurs when a person keeps believing that others are more competent.
How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome
Learn to celebrate your little efforts
This might seem insignificant but try to appreciate your success no matter how little. Appreciate that concept learned, that tutorial video you finished, that project you led, and that post you shared because they play an integral role in building confidence in your tech skills. Understand that every success brings you steps closer to that future you envisage.Practice Learned Optimism:
People who believe that bad events have specific causes are more optimistic. I gained this insight from Martin Seligman's Learned Optimism book. Practicing optimism means looking at your mistakes and imperfections in a new light. This optimistic style of explaining good events internally increases self-esteem. This doesn't mean you shouldn't take responsibility for your actions but you should acknowledge your strengths and work towards developing them.Have a Growth Mindset
A growth mindset involves the belief that skills and intelligence can be enhanced through persistent effort and determination.
This is another crucial coping strategy for imposter syndrome. Instead of viewing challenges as threats to competence, see them as opportunities to learn and improve. When faced with complex tasks, approach them with curiosity and a willingness to learn, rather than fear of failure.Collaborate and Seek Feedback
Instead of viewing team members as competition, collaborate with them and improve your skillset. Seek feedback and work on them. Use feedback to improve your skills rather than viewing it as a reflection of your ability. Feedback is invaluable in personal and professional growth as it helps build mental resilience.Show Your Work
You don't have to be a genius. Be an amateur. Amateurs are not afraid to make mistakes in public. Even as a professional, the best way to flourish is to retain an amateur spirit and embrace uncertainty. These words from Austin Kleon in his book Show Your Work stood out for me the most.
It is important to share that mini-project, that small milestone reached, that video edited. Learn to share the process, not only products. This way you can overcome perfectionism, and improve your self-belief as a tech professional.
One Final Note
Always strive for success despite imposter syndrome. Overcoming self-doubt in tech might be difficult but with constant practice, the process gets easier.
Celebrate your small achievements, practice optimism, develop a growth mindset, collaborate and seek feedback, and finally show your work.
Imposter syndrome can be different for everyone but this is my personal experience, research, and insights.
Please share how you overcame imposter syndrome in your career, work, or school in the comment section. Please like, comment, and follow for more web development and tech-related topics.
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