Navigating Imposter Syndrome: A Guide for Introverted Creators
Hey there fellow introvert! If you've ever felt like a fish out of water, battling the sneaky voice of self-doubt; then you're in the right place.
As someone who intimately understands the dance between introversion and imposter syndrome (ughh, who’s ever really liked that term🤦♀️), I'm here to guide you through this often rocky terrain.
Here we'll explore actionable advice to help you harness your inner strength I know is in you, and conquer ‘imposter syndrome’..….
I’ve actually never liked that term. “Imposters” are people pretending to be what they’re not…and that’s not you!
We’re always in a state of learning and continual improvement and growth, the more we keep practicing and applying new skills we’ve learnt.
So think of ‘imposter syndrome’ as continual growth, and let’s journey together here and emerge as empowered and authentic entrepreneurs! 💪
Embrace Your Introverted Superpowers:
First things first, know that introversion is not a weakness; it's a superpower.
And it’s part of who you uniquely are so you better embrace it!😊
That’s what I decided to do once I realized it was part of my ‘makeup’.🧠
Do you know approximately 40% of the world leaders are introverts?? Think of people like Warren Buffet, Michael Jordan, Meryl Streep, Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, Rihanna and even Oprah (I so related to an interview of hers I’ll share with you one day that I saw about the very subject! I thought ‘yep that sounds like me!’ 💯)
It’s nothing to do with that very common misconception about being shy *insert eye roll…here🙄🤦♀️.
Introverts often possess deep thinking skills, remarkable creativity, and a unique perspective that the world craves.
Embrace your quiet moments, it's where your most profound ideas will take root.
Acknowledge Your Achievements:
Ever felt like your successes were just a fluke? You're not alone! 💁♀️
Imposter syndrome loves to whisper these doubts, and they’re simply that; doubts.
One voice often backs you up! The other? The skeptical voice on your shoulder, and it’s always in your control which one you listen to.
Combat this by keeping a journal of your achievements, both big and small. Celebrate each milestone as a testament to your hard work and dedication!
Comparison is the Thief of Joy:
Goodness me I know that to be true!! The grass often looks greener on the other side, doesn't it? 🌄
For so many of us creatives, it’s easy to fall into the trap of the ‘comparison syndrome’ the more we go down a rabbit hole of inspiration! (trust me on this one).
But remember, you're seeing a curated highlight reel, not the full story. I’m sure behind most of whatever you see, comes with a lot of hard work, long hours….and a lot of ‘little steps towards the big wins’ that no one else sees, even if it doesn’t look like it…..ever feel like that?
Shift your focus from comparing yourself to others, and concentrate on your unique journey.
Your progress is valid no matter what the pace and what you can bring, plus your unique story and experiences? No one else does that better than….yep you guessed it, you😊
Embrace the Learning Journey:
No one starts as an expert! (As hard as that can be sometimes to recognise)...and that's perfectly okay.
Every successful entrepreneur once walked in your shoes, started with 0 knowledge and experience in the thing they wanted to do.
I often forget that many of the things I know and take for granted, other people don’t know. Much like you!
Many of the things you know, and your skills are so second nature by now that you don’t even have to think about them anymore….you once knew nothing about. Be proud of how far you’ve come!👏
So embrace the journey of growth and improvement - in can be painful sometimes (as big as I am on continual learning and self development!💯😍) but it’s worth it! *Because I know many people who just don’t even try, and you’re already ahead of them.
Each step you take is a valuable lesson learned, and each challenge is an opportunity for your growth.
Seek Support and Connect:
Introversion doesn't mean you have to go it alone - tempting as that is! It’s not great, and is a trap I often fall into.
Connect with like-minded individuals who understand your journey.
Join online communities, attend networking events that align with your interests (yes, us introverts must connect in the real world sometimes! God didn’t design us to do life alone; something I must continually remind myself of), and seek out mentors who can offer you guidance and perspective.
Like Tony Robbins (and several other people) say; “If you want to be successful, find someone who has achieved the results you want and copy what they do.”🏆
Practice Self-Compassion:
Would you speak to a friend or family member the way you sometimes speak to yourself? Probably not.
If I’m honest with you? Even at an appointment the other day (being the overthinking introvert I am), when I was struggling to learn a new technique I was told…”Dont be so hard on yourself”💁♀️
Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you'd offer to others🧡🙏.
So celebrate your victories, and forgive your setbacks with the compassion you deserve!🙏
Remember that the path you're treading there creative introvert, is both unique and beautiful🌷. Imposter syndrome may visit, but remember it does not define you, that’s an old limiting belief that doesn’t serve you!
And the next time you hear ‘imposter syndrome’ creep into your mind?....Think ‘no, I’m always learning, growing and continually evolving’.💪🏆
So by embracing your introverted strengths, acknowledging your achievements, ditching comparisons, and seeking support….you'll find the courage to chase your dreams authentically.
Remember, this journey is yours, and you have the power to conquer ‘imposter syndrome’ one step at a time. Keep being your amazing self introverts, embrace your superpower and let your creative light shine brightly🌟…..
You’ll only help yourself, and others in return🤗