Have you ever felt like you don’t deserve the pats on the back after achieving something? Or like you’re the only person who doesn’t really belong in a space? That everyone else has figured something out that you are struggling with?
Welcome to the world of Imposter Syndrome – where your brain plays tricks on you, making you doubt your accomplishments and feel like a fraud, even when you’ve earned your spot in the space just as much as everyone else. This is especially common for women and underrepresented identities, but no one is immune.
Worry not, we got you! Here are some self-care strategies to help you silence that doubtful inner voice and reclaim your confidence.
Identify the Facts
Try taking a look at the situation objectively. How did you get into this position? Chances are, you didn’t cheat your way into Miami, or trick a supervisor into hiring you, or land yourself in a meeting by chance. Someone saw evidence of your potential and your history of success (e.g., on your college application, on a resume, in an interview, in class, etc.) and you earned your spot at the table.
It can also be helpful to think of how far you’ve come and how you have accomplished goals in the past. Ask yourself how you might respond to a friend who confides their own feelings of inadequacy or minimizing their past accomplishments. Then use that same supportive language in your own experience.
Talk Back to Your Inner Critic
Imagine your inner critic as a noisy backseat driver. Don’t hesitate to tell them to be silent or take a hike. Replace those negative thoughts with positive affirmations like, “I worked hard for this,” or “I am capable and deserving.”
Find Your Tribe
Surround yourself with supportive friends, family, and mentors. Having a squad that believes in you can make all the difference when Imposter Syndrome comes knocking.
Practice Self-Compassion
Cut yourself some slack! You’re doing the best you can, and that’s all anyone can ask for. Treat yourself with kindness and understanding, just like you would your BFF.
Take Breaks and Breathe
Burnout is real. Make sure to schedule regular breaks for rest, relaxation, and Netflix binges. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup, so fill yours up with some much-needed self-care.
Other Miami Health and Wellness resources:
- Wellness Navigator makes it convenient to address and assess your mental health concerns and get connected to resources that can support you. The navigator takes you through a series of questions that progressively narrow down to a couple of areas where resources are laid out to help guide you in the right direction. It is quick, easy, and takes off stress if you are unsure where to seek guidance with mental health.
- Welltrack Boost is a self-guided, clinically-supported set of online tools designed to help you work on your health and wellness. You can access assessments, short courses, a meditation room, a mood check journal, and more. Simply create an account with your Miami email address and explore!
- Looking for more? Check out our Health and Wellness resources blog post!
Armed with these self-care strategies, you’re ready to conquer Imposter Syndrome and take on the world – or at least your college finals. Remember, you’ve got this. Let your light shine!
Chi Truong | Class of 2026
