A few years ago, I had a scheduled session with my mentor to discuss a feeling I had, I later learnt that it is called imposter syndrome. At the time, I told him that I was struggling with self-confidence in my new role; it felt like I was not qualified to be promoted in the manner I was; as if people will “find me out” soon. This is the classic definition of imposter syndrome.

Dr. Valarie Young, an expert in the subject, categorized imposter syndrome into five different types: the perfectionist, the superman/woman, the natural genius, the soloist and the expert. In her book, The Secret Thoughts of Successful Women: And Men: Why Capable People Suffer from Impostor Syndrome and How to Thrive In Spite of It, she built on multiple research around the subject of fraudulent feelings among high performers, and proffered solutions to dealing with each type of imposter syndrome.

The author made effort to describe each type, their distinct actions and what they must do to get over it. Reading through those well-researched thoughts, I find one common thing among all imposter syndrome cases: they are living in their head. I was living in my head too when I struggled with imposter syndrome; I always imagined that colleagues would be whispering about me when I am away, and so on.

Friend, if this describes you, the first step to recovery is to get out of your head. Understand that life is bigger than your limiting imaginations. This change of perspective spirals into an understanding that you are human; you too make mistakes, you too need the help of others. Knowing this, stop expecting yourself to be perfect, superhuman, flawless or a genius. You are human.

Lastly, it is important to note that the feeling may never go away; as you continue to grow in your career, the feeling will keep coming, but you can silence the voice and just be yourself. If it helps, know that imposter syndrome is mostly associated with high performers. You must be doing something well. So, chill.

I will keep rooting for you. Cheers.