7 Tips to get Through Imposter Syndrome
How to get through imposter syndrome and feeling like a fraud
'I can't believe anyone would buy from us. What am I even doing in my life, my little doodles can't really make a living. I'm just waiting for the moment when they find out that I'm a fraud and I don't have any reason that I should create what we do at Ketsol.'
These are just some of the thoughts that go through my head on one of those rough days of being struck with imposter syndrome. I constantly compare myself to other artists and other brands and feel like I'm not as talented or smart as they are. I often feel like I have to work twice as hard as everyone else just to prove myself. I'm always seeking validation and reassurance that I'm doing a good job, that I'm not a fraud. I'm afraid of being exposed as a failure and it causes me anxiety, depression, and stress.
I have seen this in particular this past year because the business has changed a lot with the state of the economy, and the constant changes we have faced as a business since going full time in 2018. It's a constant mental battle, feeling like I'm not good enough, and that others will eventually find out and I will prove that I really am a failure.
7 ways to get through your imposter syndrome
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Recognize that imposter syndrome is a common experience: "You're not alone in feeling like a fraud, we've all been there, even Emma Watson felt like a fraud"
- Reframe negative thoughts: "Don't be so hard on yourself, you're your own worst critic, just like a superhero's arch-nemesis"
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Focus on your accomplishments: "Don't sell yourself short, you've got skills and abilities for days, like a superpower"
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Seek support: "Find yourself a wingman, someone who will have your back and remind you how awesome you are, like a sidekick"
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Practice self-compassion: "Treat yourself like you would treat a friend, be kind and understanding, like a mentor"
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Celebrate small wins: "Don't let a small victory go unnoticed, give yourself a pat on the back, or a medal"
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Practice mindfulness: "Don't get caught up in your own head, stay present in the moment, like a ninja"
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About Elise
Elise is the co-owner and designer behind everything here at Ketsol. She is also the wife of other co-owner, Matt, and mama to two toddlers. When not chasing kids, hiking with the dogs, wearing 50 hats at Ketsol, or designing some new colorful piece of artwork, Elise loves to be outside. Hiking, snowboarding, backcountry trekking, or even just getting the heartbeat up on the Peloton are key pieces to her sanity and keeping the love of life going. (not sure why I wrote this as if someone else other than me, Elise, is writing this...hahaha)