Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you feel like you don’t quite fit in because of the impressive accomplishments of those around you? Maybe you’ve doubted whether you truly deserve to be part of this group, thinking that someone else must be more suited to be in your spot? Perhaps you’re even fearful that you might be “exposed” as someone who doesn’t deserve to be there in the first place? Under certain circumstances, this experience is known as “imposter syndrome”. It’s a common phenomenon that can impact anyone, regardless of their achievements (Sakulku and Alexander, 2011).
According to Huecker et al. (2023), imposter syndrome often affects highly accomplished individuals who, despite their success, still struggle with feeling like they aren’t as competent as they should be. It’s a feeling of inadequacy that can be difficult to shake, even when there’s clear evidence that these individuals have done the work and do belong. Unlike humility, which this can be often mistaken for, imposter syndrome can affect mental health. Humility involves acknowledging one’s limitations and maintaining a healthy modesty about one’s achievements. On the other hand, imposter syndrome is characterized by a fear of being perceived as a fraud, despite evidence of success or significant milestones. This can then possibly progress into something like anxiety or depression.
As a university student, this feeling of impostorism may become evident throughout your academic journey. With so many students who may post their grade results online or their extensive knowledge on a subject, it’s easy to feel like you don’t measure up. In students, imposter syndrome can cause you to:
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Avoid asking questions to your tutor, in tutorials and in the forums. You may also avoid tutorials and the forums in general.
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Not receive praise or positive feedback well from your tutor or classmates. You may find yourself ignoring any feedback that is given.
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Cause you to isolate yourself from speaking or interacting with other students (or with anyone, regarding your studies).
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Have the tendency to overwork or procrastinate.
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Feel more fearful or stressed out nearly every time you achieve a goal or a good grade. This is due to the thought of potentially failing in the future.
Have you ever found yourself reacting this way? I definitely did. When I was a student with The Open University, there were many times when I wanted to participate in conversations in the forums, but often felt like I didn’t have enough confidence to do so. At times, I even questioned if I belonged there, given the passion and knowledge others had in making bold contributions and stances. This feeling was constant, always like I had to be ten times more knowledgeable than I was to be worthy of contributing. It wasn’t until I worked on my module projects with other students that I was able to break free from my own insecurities. It was then that I realized I was in the right place, surrounded by like-minded, interesting people who were friendly and open to me.
Overcoming imposter syndrome isn’t easy, and it takes time to learn how to officially make peace with it. In my case, it wasn’t until I actively participated in a project that I felt comfortable interacting with other students, sharing my knowledge, and feeling good about it. When I graduated, I was also able to reflect back on my years as a student and it made me realise that I was always capable and “good enough”, despite always having a nagging feeling of being inadequate. You might experience similar periods of confidence and doubt throughout your time as an academic. (Even after!)
Here are some tips on how to deal with imposter syndrome:
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Reframe your negative thoughts into productive ones: Instead of focusing on that nasty self-doubt, remind yourself that you deserve to be where you are and to give yourself grace! If you can, try to make a gratitude list or a list of positive affirmations to give yourself praise!
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Celebrate your achievements, even the smallest of milestones: Acknowledge and celebrate the small successes. It’s important to recognise all of your accomplishments, even if they’re not considered to be big milestones.
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Avoid comparing yourself to others: Everyone is on their own academic journey, and it’s essential to focus on your own progress and growth. Realistically, you’re never going to stop learning and neither are the people you might be comparing yourself to.
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Participate and engage: Take 10 seconds of courage to contribute to the forums and ask questions. Your voice and presence matter, and engaging with others can not only boost your confidence, but inspire those who may feel similarly to you.
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Seek support: If you’re struggling with imposter syndrome, consider talking about your feelings with a trusted individual or seeking anonymous support through platforms like TalkCampus. You can also try listening to motivating talks and speeches if you’re uncomfortable with talking to someone at the moment.
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Build a balanced relationship with your studies: Avoid overworking or procrastinating as much as you can. Progress at a pace that allows you to comprehend your studies and balance it out with some fun hobbies!
Remember, you’re amazing, and you deserve to be here and to own your achievements!
Do you experience imposter syndrome? What advice or words of support would you give to someone going through this? If you are an alumni or staff member, do you still have moments like this and if so, what has helped you overcome or ease these moments of self-doubt?
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