I was first introduced to Imposter Syndrome in Foundations of Occupational Therapy which was the second class I ever took in OT school! Even though I remember learning about it, I never really applied it to myself, because I did not think it was relevant to me. It seemed as if all the examples were regarding individuals like famous lawyers or Olympic athletes. However, that is not the case at all. Every single person can be a victim of Imposter Syndrome to some degree, and unfortunately, I am one of those victims.
I have been a perfectionist ever since I can remember. I have always wanted to be the best and never make any mistakes. I would not be satisfied until my performance was “perfect”. This mentality led me to become a starter and captain of my D1 collegiate soccer team, graduate with a perfect 4.0 GPA, and hold a position in my sorority, Delta Gamma. However, even after reaching these amazing accomplishments, and seeing how able and capable I was of facing challenges and being successful, I still felt anxious and afraid of failure and not being enough. I felt like I could do more, even though I was giving me all every single day.
Fast forward to OT school, I have made straight A’s, held numerous leadership positions, and have stayed extremity organized and motivated throughout challenging COVID times. Yet, before every test I take or every new class I start I am convinced that it will be the one I fail or the test that I will struggle more than everyone else. However, I can usually compartmentalize these thoughts well and remember that I am capable, and I will succeed because I have been prepared. So, when I took the Imposter Phenomenon Rating Scale Test and scored a 56, which is close to the cut off between moderate and high Imposter Syndrome experiences, I was not surprised.
From podcasts and other outside resources, I have learned that this syndrome has a higher prevalence among healthcare professionals because healthcare professionals are surrounded by other high achieving individuals, so you are comparing yourself with the best of the best and it is easy to feel like you fall short. I also have learned that comparison is one of the worst things you can do if you are struggling with this syndrome because you are likely comparing one of your weaknesses to another’s strong points. However, there is hope! First, it is imperative that you are self-aware and have confidence in yourself! Think back to all the times that you felt stress and had success or any accomplishments you have made so far and never forget these things! It is also important to have a healthy work life or school life balance. You will never be your best version if you are not taking care of yourself first, like it has always been said, you can’t pour from and empty glass. Finally, release yourself from that perfect standard. Every single person makes mistakes, needs breaks, and has bad days, but you will bounce back, learn from mistakes and you can be the best version of yourself the next day! I am thankful that this syndrome has been brought to my attention prior to beginning my Level 2 fieldworks. I have learned symptoms of this syndrome and strategies that I can use to help combat it when I start to feel over whelmed and anxious!
