Is Imposter Syndrome Getting in Your Way? 6 Ways to Move Past It and Thrive.

You’ve invested so much time and energy into your education and training. You’re a skilled, competent, caring dental professional who is more than qualified to do the job. So what’s up with your “imposter syndrome” creeping in, psyching you out, and threatening to overshadow your hard-earned achievements? Imposter syndrome is a phenomenon where individuals begin to doubt their accomplishments and have an underlying fear of being caught as a fraud. When we suffer from imposter syndrome, it can hold us back from seizing opportunities that can be ours for the taking – from applying to a new job, to asking for a promotion, or even just stepping up to take on new roles within our current job.

While it’s totally normal (and common) for imposter syndrome to hijack our thoughts on occasion, there are simple ways to combat the negativity and instead celebrate our professional accomplishments.

Practicing self-compassion is one of the most powerful antidotes in overcoming imposter syndrome and establishing a healthier mindset. Here are six tips to start using to treat ourselves with kindness and acceptance when imposter syndrome starts to crop up: 

1. Acknowledge Your Achievements

Reflect on your accomplishments and recognize the skills and knowledge you bring to your team. Consider keeping a “feel good” journal where you can record and celebrate your achievements. This journal can be a powerful reminder of your capabilities whenever self-doubt creeps in. I find it empowering to jot down compliments I receive and revisit them whenever I need a confidence boost.

Another good practice is to regularly update your resume to stay up-to-date on your professional credentials and skills as they develop and evolve. DentalPost offers a free online resume profile for dental professionals to track CE credits and even receive notifications before they expire. A super simple skills assessment form is also available, allowing you to easily check off all your professional skills and qualifications with the touch of a button. Seeing all the fantastic experience and skills you have is an immediate confidence builder!

2. Embrace Imperfections

Understand that nobody is perfect, and making mistakes is a natural part of growth. Instead of being hard on yourself for not being flawless, view mistakes as learning opportunities. Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would extend to a colleague or friend.

3. Challenge Self-Critical Thoughts

We all experience self-critical thoughts at times, which can serve as a valuable source of motivation for our personal growth. However, if you notice an increase in the frequency of these thoughts, it may be helpful to replace them with positive affirmations to maintain a healthier mindset.

4. Seek Support

Surround yourself with a supportive network of dental and even non-dental colleagues, mentors, or friends who understand your journey. Be open and honest with them and allow yourself to receive their encouragement and validation. If you haven’t yet considered becoming a mentor or mentee, try to get involved in a formal program, check Facebook dental groups, or simply ask a colleague with more experience, which can bring you the professional and personal support you need. It’s important to know you are not alone, and the more you share, the more you realize how many people experience the same thoughts and feelings!

5. Practice Mindfulness

Many exercises, such as group workouts, meditation, or yoga, can help to reduce stress. Exercise is also essential in keeping our body healthy to continue to practice in this profession for years to come. If it feels intimidating, try going with a friend or neighbor. Exercising with someone you know and care about helps motivate you to keep going.

Need help managing stress and burnout? Check out these blogs:

Battling Burnout? Time to Reset.

Fall Back In Love With Your Dental Career

Managing Stress Throughout Your Dental Career

6. Celebrate Your Unique Contribution

Recognize the value of your individuality and your positive impact on your patients’ overall well-being. Celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small, and take pride in the difference you make in people’s lives.

—

Remember, both new graduates and those with years of experience in their field have feelings of inadequacy, despite their competence and qualifications. But these feelings do not have to last forever! 

It’s important that we all to come together as a dental community, supporting and uplifting one another and creating an environment where imposter syndrome has no room to thrive. When we share our stories, we empower one another to overcome the limitations of imposter syndrome and build a more confident and fulfilling career. We can give back to the future of our industry through inspiration and encouragement!