How to Use Impostor Syndrome to Achieve Your Goals

A little self-doubt is healthy. Knowing your weaknesses can drive your desire to improve and seek help and feedback. However, too much doubt can be a case of impostor syndrome, wherein don’t believe in any of your abilities and accomplishments. Even when people praise you, you think, “I’m not as good as they think I am.”

Need a confidence boost? Learn how to beat insecurity and use self-doubt in a positive, healthy way.

Instead of suppressing your doubts, make them a starting point for self-reflection and action. Keep a journal – or a “Doubt Dump Book” – where you can work through fears whenever they strike.

Identify negative thoughts. Self-doubt can be a big, overwhelming feeling. Break it down into specific insecurities (i.e., “I’m not a good communicator” or “I can't handle this responsibility”).

Challenge them. Are they based on facts? Think about your past victories and all the positive feedback you’ve received. Pretend you’re a journalist or a lawyer who demands evidence for each statement.

Turn doubts into goals. Let’s use the statement “I’m not a good communicator.” Turn it into a specific, actionable goal like, “Take a class on how to design better presentations this month.”

Remember, it took you months to learn how to walk and years to learn how to read and build your vocabulary. Nobody expects a newborn to write a college thesis – and you can’t expect yourself to become an expert in your field overnight (or even a few years).

Acknowledge that you’re growing every day. Mistakes are normal, especially if you’re going out of your comfort zone. So, give yourself a pat on the back for being brave enough to set big goals and learn something new!

People with impostor syndrome are their own worst critics. When they fail, they automatically think: “See! I knew I couldn’t do it!” or “This is all my fault.”

Be kind to yourself, especially when you’re going through a rough time. Acknowledge your efforts, remember your strengths, and remind yourself that nobody is perfect.

Find ways to de-stress and boost your mood – even if it’s as simple as a long hot bath. Lather on Sunsilk Strong & Long Shampoo, which strengthens and nourishes hair with biotin and aloe vera. Take the time to massage your scalp; it can be very relaxing!

After your bath, pamper your skin with Vaseline Gluta Hya Serum Burst Lotion Flawless Bright. This non-greasy lotion has Serum Burst Technology that allows it to be instantly absorbed by the skin. It also has retinol to exfoliate dead skin cells, so your complexion is smoother, brighter, and more even-toned.

Positive Psychology, which provides professionals with science-based tips and tools on empowerment, says practicing gratitude can have a huge impact on your self-confidence and emotional well-being. It makes you more optimistic, resilient, and content while reducing stress and anxiety.

Want to learn how to practice gratitude? Try these five simple strategies for a more positive and thankful mindset.

If you look at historical accounts, memoirs, or any Netflix biopic, you’ll see that no one succeeds alone. CEOs have investors, advisors, and employees. Celebrities have agents, PR firms, or creative influences.

Surround yourself with people who can give you moral support and help you achieve your goals. This can include friends and family, career mentors, and people you meet at online forums and professional organizations. You can also follow inspiring and educational podcasts or social media channels and fill your feed with empowering messages.

Humility involves having a realistic and grounded view of yourself that acknowledges both your strengths and weaknesses. It helps you develop a sincere desire to collaborate with others and respect different perspectives.

Impostor syndrome fixates on weaknesses and may prevent you from trying new things or asking help from others. You’re too focused on trying to be perfect and meet expectations to enjoy the life-long journey of learning with other people.

The best way to be humble is to embrace what Zen practitioners call “the joy of a beginner.” This means approaching life with a sense of curiosity, openness, and excitement for what lies ahead. Imagine a child who skips to class on his first day of kindergarten, or a puppy who loves learning new tricks. They’re usually having too much fun to worry about failing.

Want to know a secret? Nobody feels as confident as they look. Even celebrities get stage fright, and many top executives grapple with impostor syndrome when they face a business challenge.

However, successful people can “borrow confidence” whenever self-doubt strikes – by remembering earlier accomplishments, confiding in a trusted friend, or switching on their Slay Mode. They wear a power outfit and walk into that boardroom or stage like they own it. You can do that, too!

Beat impostor syndrome with a beauty routine that boosts your confidence. Try makeup looks to enhance your natural beauty or wear a perfume that brings back happy memories. Moreover, use a reliable deodorant like Dove Radiant + Care Deodorant Dry Serum 3% Niacinamide 10x Vitamin C & E Dark Marks Reducer so you stay fresh the entire day.

Impostor syndrome can erode your confidence. But you can always rebuild it with healthy positive thinking and regular self-care. It will show in your body language and your overall mood, and help you face the day’s challenges without breaking a sweat.