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Discussion on: Battling Imposter Syndrome By Understanding the Dunning Kruger Effect

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Michael Stelly

I lived silently with and had no clue about, this "syndrome" for decades. A few years back, I heard about imposter syndrome for the first time. The effect on me was nothing short of miraculous and instantaneous. This is not hyperbole. I went from dread to calm seemingly in moments. It all finally made sense. The epiphany washed all the years of "apparent failure" away leaving me with a name for my demon.

It's difficult to put into words the watershed effect this knowledge had on me, but it still plays out in my everyday work life. I see problems differently now. I'm not judging myself "less than" my colleagues anymore. I ask questions without fear of being viewed as an idiot. I approach problems knowing that no one else has the answer already.

I urge everyone who experiences IS to "name your demon". Naming it deprives it of the power over you allowing you to reclaim your mojo.

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Kaleb M • Edited

This comment made my day!

One of my mentors who was fabulous at connecting with people, providing life-long guidance, and supporting us through our own career journeys really changed my perspective on a key area of life.

She was 60+ and asked others for help. She had people who were part of her GE Leadership Program 10+ years ago still calling her for career advice or life advice. It was incredible.

One day I asked her - HOW? I can barely get people from college I interacted with to keep up with me. How did you do it for people so long ago?

Her response - I allow myself to be vulnerable.

And she really did - once I started learning more about it, it was really helpful to my friendships as well. We live in an era of social media and perfection - vulnerability means you trust people and can ask for help - the bonds strengthen from it :)

Apologies for the rambling but I was so happy to hear you grew, and still are growing as you succeed at work !