Have you ever started a new job, athletic or creative endeavor or ministry role and thought to yourself, “I do NOT belong here”?  That quiet voice of doubt creeps in.  That is imposter syndrome and I think we can all agree that we’ve felt that fear more than once in our lives. 

Imposter syndrome is that nagging internal voice that tells us that we aren’t good enough or that we have somehow arrived at this achievement by a fluke.  We might tell ourselves that we just got lucky.  We fear other people are going to find out that we don’t deserve this success. 

Imposter syndrome often breeds in environments that value achievement and perfection.  Therefore, when we start to grow in an area of our lives and undoubtedly face uncertainty, that little critical voice gets louder and louder.  Here’s the irony:  people that face imposter syndrome typically are often the ones that are competent and capable.  They care about doing things well and put in the effort to do their best.

So, what can we do about it?  First, notice and name it as imposter syndrome.  Then collect evidence of achievements/successes and talk about it with a trusted person.  Reevaluate the definition of success.  Instead of chasing perfectionism, aim for progress. 

Pray about it.  “We are God’s masterpiece, created in Christ Jesus to do good works” (Ephesians 2:10).  “May he equip you with all you need for doing his will”. (Hebrews 13:21)

So, the next time you are feeling like “I don’t belong here”, grab a coffee and have a chat with God!