Some new and experienced nurses have asked themselves, "Do I really belong here?" Why do so many capable professionals second-guess their education, training, fund of knowledge, and abilities? The intended purpose of this article is to discuss the impostor syndrome and provide suggestions on dealing with this stressful problem in today's career-oriented society.
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Although the impostor syndrome is not an officially recognized diagnosis, many educated professionals have experienced the conflicting feelings and distressing emotions that accompany this phenomenon. The impostor syndrome is a term that describes one's personal feelings of not being authentic in the professional or academic world, despite a mountain of evidence that points to the contrary.
The person who suffers from the impostor syndrome begins to believe that his or her career or scholarly triumphs are undeserved, that any positive recognition is not truly warranted, and that he or she is merely 'faking it before making it.' These individuals attribute their successes and achievements to external factors such as luck, being in the right place at the right time, knowing people with the right connections, or proficiency at 'conning' the people with whom they interact.
The nursing profession remains heavily dominated by females in all aspects, including clinical areas, education, leadership, and research. The impostor syndrome may be especially problematic among women (Buchanan, 2006). Nurses in all areas are sometimes overloaded with cognitive challenges that might result in self-doubt. After all, patients' lives depend on the work that we do and the decisions we make. A concern with doing excellent work is also a concern about being of real service (Gordon, 2010). Any quality of nursing care that is lacking in competence may have dire consequences.
The impostor syndrome is the result of certain personality traits and several actions that some individuals take. People who constantly compare themselves with others, overreact when they do not know something, engage in perfectionism, and are devoted to achieving expertise are prone to develop the belief that they are impostors who do not belong.
Fortunately, several techniques exist for dealing with the impostor syndrome. First and foremost, the sufferer needs to admit to the problem by realizing that he or she does have the impostor syndrome. After all, one cannot resolve a problem without first acknowledging that they have one. Secondly, the person must stop caring so much about what others in the peer group think of him or her.
Another option is to celebrate achievements by reflecting on any degrees, certifications, awards, or formal recognitions. In addition, the person must limit the amount of negative self-fulfilling prophecies and counteract any pessimistic thoughts by thinking optimistically. Finally, the person must be cognizant that the impostor syndrome does not last forever. However nasty it feels, impostor syndrome is temporary (Gordon, 2010). This issue can be conquered with much effort and focus. Good luck!
