Special Series: Imposter Syndrome (1/3)

Hey there, dedicated educators!

Let's get real for a moment. Throughout my journey in education, I've been haunted by sneaky feelings of self-doubt. There were moments I questioned my achievements, attributed my successes to sheer luck, poured endless hours into perfecting every detail, and often undersold the valuable skills I've gathered over the years. Eventually, I discovered that these nagging doubts were part of a bigger picture, aptly named - Impostor Syndrome. In this post, we're diving deep into understanding Impostor Syndrome - its origins, the influence it can exert on our personal and professional lives, and how we can effectively combat this subtle yet pervasive beast.

What can it look like?

In terms of what Imposter Syndrome can look like, re-read the above paragraph. Unfortunately, it can also weave its way into our professional lives in other interesting ways. There's the hesitation in embracing praise. Even with clear indicators of one's abilities, it's easy to dismiss affirmations, attributing them to mere politeness. It can push one into the trap of over-preparation, spending an inordinate amount of time on details most might see as trivial. This gnawing insecurity might also lead one to avoid challenges entirely, sidelining potential opportunities for growth. Additionally, it's not unusual to feel that our successes are due to someone else's efforts rather than recognizing our contributions. And amid all this, a constant fear lurks—fear of seeking help. This reluctance stems from the mistaken belief that asking questions might somehow expose one's "inadequacies."

What are the root causes?

Recognizing these signs is the first step, but where does this all come from? Let’s look at from the lens of education so answer why some educators feel this way. Firstly, there's the ambition of always "aiming for the stars." When we set extremely high standards and goals for ourselves, it can often feel like we're perpetually lagging, always striving to catch up. Is it about keeping up with what we see from others, is from the media? Our upbringing? Then, there's the undeniable apprehension that comes with being "fresh on the block." Whether one is just starting out or transitioning into a new role, the unfamiliar territory can bring a wave of insecurities. Additionally, the pathway of "the road less traveled" can add to this sentiment. Educators coming from diverse or underrepresented backgrounds might occasionally question their place or fit in the broader educational landscape. By understanding these root causes, educators can better address their feelings, ensuring they harness their full potential and thrive in any educational environment.

Taking it on!

Ready to tackle that Impostor Syndrome monster? Here's how we can navigate through it together! Kick-starting with heart-to-heart chats, a simple coffee talk with colleagues can be enlightening. It’s heartwarming to realize just how many resonate with your feelings. Don’t forget to celebrate each accomplishment, no matter its size. Create a personal “Win-Board” or diary, jotting down those moments that made you say, "Yay!" These recorded moments stand testament to your achievements.

Seeking guidance? Rope in a mentor! Their wisdom, paired with a nudge in the right direction, can be invaluable. To truly conquer the monster, we might need a mindset makeover. How about switching out those "Lucky me" moments with a confident "I aced this with my sheer dedication!" And, remember, every achievement, whether grand or small, is reason enough to do that happy dance. Keeping the learning flame alive is crucial; dive into workshops and embrace seminars. Expand your knowledge, and in turn, bolster your confidence. And hey, stumble along the way? Embrace those moments. After all, mistakes often set the stage for our most brilliant comebacks!

Taking it a step further, our schools have a significant role to play. With the help of supportive principals who value their staff sharing their concerns and voicing their challenges, can help to dispel these collective doubts. A culture of constructive feedback can guide us to hone our strengths and work on our growth areas. Moreover, the power of collaboration can't be underestimated! Creating a professional learning community that provides time to connect and share is invaluable.

Impostor Syndrome might be common, but with a sprinkle of awareness, a dash of self-love, and a supportive community, we can rise above it! Remember, every educator adds a special flavor to the classroom. So, embrace your authenticity and shine on!

Stay tuned for our next blog post that provides additional tips to overcoming a common way Imposter Syndrome can creep into your world - by comparing yourself to your colleagues and how to overcoming the fear of judgment.

By Piero Evfremidis

LearningPost Contributor