Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/1441323
54 ASCP Skin Deep Winter 2022 NOT ALL BAD At the same time, impostor syndrome isn't all bad. As Blaisdell points out, "It can keep us humble, keep us fact-checking the work we're putting out there. It adds up to extra due diligence." Some of the same traits of impostor syndrome are motivators to keep improving as practitioners and having the self-awareness to stay in our scope of practice. Self-awareness is contextual and flexible and helps you accomplish your goals. The problem develops when the syndrome becomes a pervasive and repetitive cycle that holds you back. Ask yourself: • Is this just nerves? • Would a trusted instructor or mentor encourage me to attend this event or take on this project? • Do I have the necessary education, credentialing, and licensing to practice my trade? • Does sharing this opinion or information violate my scope of practice? • Are there credible sources to support the information I'm sharing? The tools to overcome impostor syndrome are rightly used when dealing with the anxiety of attending a networking event or nerves before a presentation. But if you are attempting to bolster an air of superiority, present yourself as knowing more than you actually do (or more than other credentialed professionals), or inching out of your scope, that's a problem. A successful balance of humility and confidence doesn't come easily, but it is worth the effort and self-reflection. CONQUERING IMPOSTOR SYNDROME If you see traits of impostor syndrome in yourself, fear not. There are plenty of simple techniques to conquer these feelings of inadequacy that may be holding you back. Change Your Language If you tend to brush off compliments and pass along credit to others, reframe those responses. For example, "Oh, it's not a big deal" could be "Thank you, I worked hard, and it feels wonderful to be recognized." If you and a colleague create a self-care event and get rave reviews, resist the urge to push the credit to someone else. Instead of, "Oh, Cathy did the hard work," try saying, "Thank you, it was great to collaborate with Cathy, and I know we're both pleased with the final product." You can take credit for your work, truly own your accomplishments, and still remain humble. The balance is a wonderful place to inhabit.