This whole thing has been on my mind for years, amazing really as you might think that after all these years all that I do is a walk in the park but no, it’s still here, am I a imposter?

When Starstream first came to life I was full of eagerness to please every client and I suppose that some trepidation at that point is natural, it actually keeps you focused but after a while things creep in, those little niggles of doubt and despite a backlog of success the pressure is always on that next client and making them happy no matter what. This is me, mostly before the gig happens as when I’m in full flow it’s amazing, the build up to a event never gets any easier. I’ve taken the time to look into this and talk to people who suffer as well, I needed to find out what is actually going on and how I might start to curb that edge.

Imposter syndrome is a psychological condition that affects people who believe that they are not good enough, despite evidence to the contrary. Those who experience imposter syndrome feel that they are not competent or skilled enough to be in the position that they hold or to achieve the things that they have achieved. This can lead to feelings of anxiety, self-doubt, and a fear of being exposed as a fraud.

Imposter syndrome can affect anyone, regardless of their age, gender, or profession. It is particularly common among high achievers, such as those in academia, the arts, and business. Those who experience imposter syndrome may believe that their success is due to luck or chance, rather than their own abilities.

There are several factors that can contribute to imposter syndrome. One of the most common is a fear of failure. Those who experience imposter syndrome may fear that they will fail in their endeavors, and that they will be exposed as a fraud. This fear can be particularly strong in high-achieving individuals, who may feel that their success is a result of their own efforts, rather than external factors.

Another factor that can contribute to imposter syndrome is perfectionism. Those who experience imposter syndrome may feel that they need to be perfect in order to succeed, and that anything less than perfection is a failure. This can lead to a fear of taking risks or making mistakes, which can further exacerbate feelings of self-doubt and anxiety.

Imposter syndrome can also be caused by external factors, such as discrimination or bias. Those who feel that they have been discriminated against may believe that their success is not a result of their own abilities, but rather due to affirmative action or other external factors. This can lead to feelings of self-doubt and a fear of being exposed as a fraud.

There are several strategies that can help those who experience imposter syndrome. One of the most important is to recognize that imposter syndrome is a common condition, and that many high-achieving individuals experience it. This can help to reduce feelings of isolation and shame.

Another strategy is to focus on evidence that supports one’s abilities and accomplishments. Those who experience imposter syndrome may discount their achievements, believing that they are not significant. By focusing on evidence that supports their abilities and accomplishments, such as positive feedback from colleagues or awards and honors, individuals can build their self-confidence and reduce feelings of self-doubt.

Additionally, it can be helpful to reframe one’s thoughts about failure. Those who experience imposter syndrome may believe that failure is a sign of weakness or incompetence. However, failure is a natural part of the learning process, and can provide valuable feedback that can help individuals improve their skills and abilities.

Seeking support from others can also be helpful for those who experience imposter syndrome. Talking to trusted friends, family members, or colleagues can provide a sense of validation and help individuals feel less alone. Additionally, seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor can be beneficial for those who experience more severe symptoms of imposter syndrome.

It’s a common psychological condition that affects many high-achieving individuals. It can lead to feelings of anxiety, self-doubt, and a fear of being exposed as a fraud. However, there are several strategies that can help individuals manage and overcome imposter syndrome, including recognizing that it is a common condition, focusing on evidence that supports one’s abilities and accomplishments, reframing one’s thoughts about failure, and seeking support from others. By taking steps to manage imposter syndrome, individuals can build their self-confidence and achieve their goals with greater ease and satisfaction.

One way or another I carry on, I love my work, I love networking and being around others, that’s how Starstream grows but maybe more importantly that’s how I grow …