There’s a fine line between self-doubt and feeling like an outright fraud at work. This feeling, often referred to as ‘imposter syndrome’, can be paralyzing.

But here’s the good news – you’re not alone and there are strategies to help you overcome this.

In the workplace, feeling like a fraud can be incredibly isolating. But luckily, I’ve been there and found ways through it. Now, I’m going to share with you some of my top strategies to conquer this self-doubt.

Being transparent about your feelings is the first step towards overcoming them. So, let’s delve into these nine strategies that can assist in conquering your imposter syndrome at work.

1) Acceptance

Let’s start with one of the most powerful strategies: acceptance.

Feeling like a fraud at work is often a symptom of imposter syndrome. But here’s the twist – some of the most successful people in the world have felt this way too.

Thus, understanding and accepting that these feelings are common can help reduce their power over you.

Imposter syndrome often stems from the irrational fear that we aren’t as competent as others perceive us to be. But remember, it’s just that – an irrational fear.

So the first step in conquering your doubtster syndrome is to accept that these feelings are common, even among highly successful individuals.

Remember, you’re not alone in these feelings, and acknowledging them is a significant step towards overcoming them.

2) Positive reinforcement

One strategy that has personally helped me is the use of positive reinforcement.

During my early career years, I constantly felt out of place, like I was wearing a mask and one day, everyone would find out I wasn’t as competent as they thought.

Then, I started keeping a ‘win journal’. Every day after work, I’d jot down at least one thing I did well that day. It could be anything from giving a solid presentation to simply managing my time effectively.

Over time, this journal became a tangible reminder of my skills and achievements. Whenever imposter syndrome tried to creep in, I would flip through this ‘win journal’.

Seeing my accomplishments in black and white helped reinforce that I was competent and deserving of my position. This practice helped me to combat those feelings of being a fraud at work.

3) Talk it out

When grappling with feelings of self-doubt and fraudulence, it can be incredibly beneficial to verbalize these thoughts.

According to a study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology, speaking your anxieties out loud can actually make them appear smaller and more manageable.

So, consider opening up to a trusted colleague or mentor about your feelings. You’d be surprised at how many people have felt the same way and can offer support or advice.

Remember, bottling up your feelings can often amplify them. Letting them out in a safe environment can be a powerful tool in managing imposter syndrome.

4) Focus on the value you bring

Imposter syndrome often makes us focus on our shortcomings, but what about our strengths?

Make a conscious effort to identify and acknowledge the unique value you bring to your workplace. Maybe it’s your creativity, your ability to lead a team, or your knack for problem-solving.

By focusing on your strengths rather than obsessing over your weaknesses, you can slowly start to shift your mindset. This can help to diminish feelings of being a fraud and boost your professional confidence.

Remember, everyone brings something unique to the table. Identifying and embracing your unique value is a crucial step in overcoming self-doubt at work.

5) Celebrate your achievements

Imposter syndrome has a sneaky way of making us discount our accomplishments. We may attribute our successes to luck or timing, rather than acknowledging our own hard work and capabilities.

It’s time to change that narrative.

Start celebrating your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. Finished a tough project? Celebrate it. Received positive feedback? Celebrate it.

Celebrating these moments not only boosts your confidence but also helps to reframe your mindset. You start seeing yourself as the achiever that you are, rather than a fraud who just got lucky.

Remember, every success story is a result of hard work and resilience, and you deserve to celebrate yours.

6) Practice self-compassion

In the face of imposter syndrome, we can often be our own harshest critics. We berate ourselves for perceived inadequacies and failures, feeding into our feelings of fraudulence.

It’s time to show yourself some kindness.

Practicing self-compassion means treating yourself with the same care and understanding you’d give a friend. It’s okay to make mistakes, to not know everything, to be imperfect. These are universal human experiences.

When you stumble, instead of beating yourself up, remind yourself that everyone stumbles sometimes. It’s part of the journey to growth.

Remember, you are more than your mistakes or shortcomings. Treating yourself with kindness can help you find the strength to overcome self-doubt and stand in your truth.

7) Separate feelings from fact

There was a time when I was tasked with leading a project for the first time. I felt overwhelmed and doubted if I was capable enough to handle the responsibility.

I had to remind myself that these feelings of doubt were not an accurate reflection of my abilities. Just because I felt incapable didn’t mean I was.

This is a crucial differentiation to make – separate your feelings from fact. Feelings are transient and often not rooted in reality. Just because you feel like an imposter doesn’t mean you are one.

Take a step back, assess your abilities objectively, and remind yourself of your qualifications and accomplishments. Don’t let fleeting feelings dictate your self-worth.

8) Seek external feedback

Sometimes, our self-perception can be skewed by imposter syndrome, making it difficult for us to accurately assess our abilities and achievements.

In such cases, seeking external feedback can be incredibly helpful. Talk to your colleagues, superiors, or mentors. Ask them for honest feedback about your performance.

Hearing an outside perspective can give you a more balanced view of your abilities and help you see that you are competent and deserving of your position.

Remember, while self-reflection is crucial, sometimes we need an outside perspective to see ourselves clearly. Don’t hesitate to seek feedback when you need it.

9) Keep going

Imposter syndrome can be paralyzing, but the most crucial strategy is to keep going.

Remember, feelings of self-doubt don’t diminish your worth or abilities. Don’t let them hold you back from pursuing your goals.

You have every right to be in your position and every capability to excel in it. Keep learning, keep growing, and keep pushing forward. You are more capable than you think you are.

Final thoughts: It’s a journey

Overcoming feelings of being a fraud at work isn’t something that happens overnight. It’s a journey, and like all journeys, it will have its ups and downs.

Imposter syndrome can be deeply ingrained, but every step you take towards conquering it is a step towards reclaiming your confidence and authenticity.

Remember, your worth is not defined by your self-doubt. You are competent, you are capable, and you belong in your field.

And most importantly, you are not alone. Many of the most successful people have grappled with these same feelings.

So take these strategies, tailor them to suit your needs, and start on your path towards conquering your doubtster syndrome.

Because at the end of the day, you are not an imposter. You are just being human.