Imposter syndrome can be personally defined as the feeling of not achieving as highly as one’s peers.”Maybe I’m not doing enough,” is a thought that can result from this.
Imposter syndrome can be especially prevalent in the ever evolving tech industry. Being undergraduates (and inherent beginners) can fuel this situation. I have come to realize that it’s perfectly okay not to know everything. As long as I’m willing to take the time to understand concepts, explore alternative solutions, and seek help from professors, everything will fall into place.Building a strong foundation is more important than rushing to be the best.
Instead of delving into the details of why imposter syndrome exists, I will focus on practical strategies to combat it. These techniques have personally helped me gain the right perspective during tough times.
Embrace Your Current Position in Life
Understand that you are exactly where you need to be. You may be ahead of some and behind others, but comparing yourself will only hinder your progress. Instead, find ways to build your skills in a manner that aligns with your unique strengths and interests. Engage in projects that bring you fulfilment.
Surround Yourself with a Quality Community
At CMC, I found a supportive community peers majoring in Data Science. When we have the same classes, we help each other. Having a strong support network has been so helpful, especially during challenging Data Science courses. The upperclassmen have reassured me that they are there to help and understand the struggles associated with the learning curve.
Foster Relationships with Professors
During my freshman year, I had the best Calculus teacher. His passion for math spilled over into his teaching,and he often used classical music to illustrate mathematical concepts. He connected his passions to other aspects of life, and this made the subject matter meaningful. As someone who had struggled with math in the past, I was initially unsure about my success in the class. However, his dedication inspired me to show up every day. I would arrive an hour before class to study in the classroom (it was empty; the class was in the morning). This gave me the opportunity to engage in conversations with him before class.
Take Your Time
Rushing often leads to mistakes, which can heighten feelings of inadequacy. I’ve learned that planning ahead and allowing extra time for tasks prevents unnecessary errors. Giving myself sufficient breathing space led to better outcomes.
Familiarize Yourself with the 10,000-Hour Rule
True expertise in any skill requires at least 10,000 hours of deliberate practice. This means that even if you spend four uninterrupted hours each day, five days a week, it would take approximately eight years to accumulate the necessary hours. Remember, you have time. Don’t be too hard on yourself.
Conclusion
In conclusion, I hope these strategies help you combat imposter syndrome 🙂