I’ve just gone back to school and the other day I found myself feeling defeated, for no particular reason.
I felt sad and stressed about my academics when I hadn’t even started yet. I had an assignment due date coming up and the overwhelming feeling of failure suddenly hit me, HARD.
Thoughts like, “why do you even think you can do this? ” and “who do you think you are?” were suddenly at the forefront of my mind and I started to panic. Mind you, this was the very first deadline for the year.
Why was I already feeling like doomsday was upon me?
After stopping by McDonald’s to eat my feelings away, I decided to call my sister and shared how I was feeling. She listen and told me that those were just thoughts and that’s all they are. None of it is actually true. I just needed to push through the negative thoughts and do what needed to be done.
I’ve been dealing with imposter syndrome my whole life and I’m sure some of you have dealt with it at some point too, that nagging voice in your head that tells you you’re not good enough with the nasty habit of showing up when you need to get things done.
It’s awful.
Thankfully, I listened to my sister and the negative feelings went away.
I just wanted to tell you that these feelings are normal and are felt by many of us from time to time. It’s important that we don’t let them take over.
When it comes to negative feelings, the best thing is just to feel them and let them pass. Don’t dwell on them and remember that they are just feelings.
Sometimes our minds tell us negative things about ourselves that aren’t true. We fall into the trap and start believing them.
Next time Imposter Syndrome hits, remember this – none of it is true. You are capable and worthy. You can do whatever you set your mind to.
That’s my 2 cents for the day.
Laters.
Thank you so much for sharing your experience with imposter syndrome. It’s something that many of us can relate to, and it can be incredibly challenging to deal with those negative thoughts and feelings. Your sister’s advice is spot on—recognizing that these thoughts are just thoughts, not facts, is a crucial step in overcoming imposter syndrome. It’s reassuring to know that we’re not alone in experiencing these doubts and that we have the strength to push through them. Your two cents are worth a lot, and your message is a great reminder of our capabilities and worth. Keep pushing forward, and thanks for the encouragement!
I struggle so badly with impostor syndrome. No matter what I do I doubt I’ll ever feel like a real writer or illustrator!
We just gotta keeping fighting thse negative feelings because they are lies.
xoxo