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Dear Faculty RelationsÌý–ÌýDo I have impostor syndrome, or am I just lacking confidence? I feel like I don't belong. –ÌýStressed Out Ìý

Dear Stressed OutÌý– Good question. I believe that "Impostor Syndrome" is "overused" in academia. You might feel this way not because you don't belong but because being an academic requires taking risks and being vulnerable. I believe that anyone who is willing to unlearn, relearn, and grow will experience discomfort throughout their career. So, is it Impostor Syndrome or just self-awareness? Ìý
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Impostor Syndrome is not a formal diagnosis, but it's a pretty great catch-all to describe the challenges we face as academics. Impostor Syndrome isn't just stress/anxiety. Impostor Syndrome will keep you from publishing, taking part in new research, and presenting and also tends to trigger isolation. Impostor Syndrome is crippling. Ìý

Most academics will experience doubt, and most of us have experienced failure on our way to discovering the "pearls of wisdom." That's just the academic journey. You may be waiting to feel like you've arrived or that you belong, but careers in research require us to exist in uncomfortable spaces. The minute I think I have it all figured out, I should probably retire. Academics need to question, think critically, and have curiosity. Ìý
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Here are some healthy practices I would suggest when you experience doubt. Remind yourself of all you have accomplished, and try and celebrate career milestones. You're here because you were chosen, and people believe in your abilities. Reflect daily and question negative internal narratives with curiosity and not judgment. Take on challenges in other areas of your life and build confidence in your ability to do hard things. Lastly, normalize questioning yourself and share your experiences with any mentees, colleagues, and advisees. The fastest way to "unmask" Impostor Syndrome is to drag it into the light and change the "sink or swim" culture that plagues academia. Ìý

Leslie Ellen Blood, PhD, Director of Graduate Community and Professional Development, Graduate School. Builder of Badass Human Beings. February 2024.Ìý