The Imposter

The ABC Chronicles

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I’m back with the letter “I” today! And continuing with the idea from my last post about Imposter Syndrome.

You know… when I talked about this syndrome before I was looking at it from the perspective that something was wrong with “me.” As if feeling like an imposter was the result of not feeling adequate or qualified.

Well, that is what this syndrome refers to; about feeling like you’re a fraud because you don’t believe that your skills or talents (or whatever) are worthy of the praise or accolades (or salary or grades) you have actually earned and received… and you fear that you will eventually be found out.

BUT, after mentioning my thoughts on academia yesterday, I began to wonder if feeling like an imposter could also be a sign that you are being forced into a mold that doesn’t fit who you really are. That you’re having to mask your natural voice – your authentic self.

Then it isn’t necessarily a question of “What is wrong with me?” – but a question of “What is wrong with this environment or expectation?”

Anyway, I’m pretty sure that the colorful, creative (rebellious) girl in my illustration is my inner child. The mask (imposter)… is the stifled adult. Doesn’t she look bored?

I was pleasantly surprised at where my thoughts took me while I was creating it. I was able to say, “It’s not ME, it’s the external forces that constantly require obedience and conformity.”

Well, I think that’s enough for now. I’m happy to be moving on to “J” next because I’ve got some fun ideas!

In the meantime…
Stay authentic and uniquely you!

Thanks for looking/reading… I hope you enjoyed!