YOUR IMPOSTER TYPE IS:
The Expert
There’s no doubt you’re dedicated. You’re brilliant and many people are in awe of what you’ve accomplished in your life.
The only problem? You haven’t internalised this success. And the thought of uttering those three little words - ‘I don’t know’ - is enough to make you break out in a cold sweat.
Somewhere along the way, you became convinced that your self-worth is linked to the amount of knowledge you possess.
Learning as you go? No way! You prefer to have all the answers before you even start. And if you come across a question you can't answer, shame bubbles up and you either throw yourself into hibernation, too ashamed to face your peers, or you spend your time anxiously Googling, trying to equip yourself with the right answer so you never need to feel vulnerable again.
Your desire for more knowledge has held you back in your life. For example, that time you shied away from applying for that job because you didn’t meet every single criteria on the listing. Or you find yourself addicted to shiny objects, tacking on another year of post-grad, or gobbling up new training and certifications… even though you know from your lived experience that no amount of extra learning or prep can fill this gnawing hunger you have to feel confident and worthy.
I see you, Expert, because I’ve been exactly where you are right now, gaining accolade after accolade, yet always feeling uneasy and empty inside.
But guess what? Your being here means you’re ready for change. You don’t need to let an outdated fear of not measuring up stop you from claiming your space and celebrating just how far you’ve come.
Let’s lovingly thank your Expert Imposter for keeping you safe (after all, that’s what they have been trying to do all this time). It’s time to let go of the pressure to ‘know everything’ and embrace constructive self-compassion.
Here are 3 tips to overcome your expert imposter
Tip 1
Just-in-time learning was made for you, friend. If you catch yourself trying to ‘overprep’ and hoard knowledge, collecting courses and qualifications because it gives you comfort, next time try only acquiring a new skill when it becomes absolutely necessary. That way, you’ll free up more time and energy to explore other interests, and stop the cycle of shiny object syndrome that keeps you feeling ‘not enough’.
Tip 2
Chances are, you know much more than you think you do.
Mentoring junior colleagues or volunteering can help you remind yourself that you’ve come a long way in your expertise. When you generously share your knowledge and wisdom with others, you’re not only helping others, but you’re countering your imposter feelings with evidence that actually, you do know your stuff.
Tip 3
While affirmations won’t always help with deep-seated beliefs, they can be helpful for overturning beliefs that rise up in the moment. Try writing out positive affirmations and stick them somewhere you can glimpse them regularly. Pick phrases that support your self-esteem such as “I’m smart enough to figure this out” or “I’m more capable than I feel.”
If imposter syndrome is a problem for you, don't worry! Check out my programs below to find out how I can help.
Discover how people just like you are overcoming self-doubt and fear and finally believing in themselves and living with more confidence, joy and personal power.
