5 Must-Read Books If You’re Struggling with Imposter Syndrome
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We probably have all experienced the imposter syndrome; that moment when you were commended for something you did but you had the feeling that you did not deserve it. It cuts across different moments in our lives ranging from a tap on the back for work we broke our backs trying to get a raise by being a part of the success of a project.
First coined by psychologists in 1978, the imposter syndrome encompasses all feelings of inadequacies even when the evidence says otherwise. It can be demoralizing and could hinder your potentials if left unchecked. If you are looking for inspiration, look no further and delve into the pages of these five books:
Valerie Young’s “The Secret Thoughts of Successful Women”
Valerie’s book introduces us to the challenges of living with imposter syndrome as well as its causes. It equips us with the knowledge and tools to deal with the self-doubt that plagues us. It also challenges us to rise above it because it is not as real as we think it is. This book is no surprise coming from a woman who has dedicated years into studying the reasons why women suffer from the imposter syndrome, especially in their own lives.
Written by British Journalist, Bryony Gordon, this book offers great insight into the world of mental illness; exploring Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), anxiety and drug-dependency that made her a victim in her late teens and twenties. She takes us on a journey where there is a wide gap between one’s perception of self and one’s professional successes and achievements and how to take charge of one’s future in order to be successful.
Sophie Kinsella’s “Remember me?”
Author of Confessions of a Shopaholic, Sophie, tells a story weaved around the transformation of the protagonist who has amnesia from an accident into a higher level of success which she feels undeserving of. She takes us on a journey into insecurities we are familiar with and challenges our notions of perfection.
Creator of the award-winning Grey’s Anatomy and Scandal, Shonda releases her autobiography in this one and the challenges of validation she faces in her position of power. She exposes the “self-doubt and lack of confidence” moment that plagues most people, including female bosses too; this was exhibited in interviews and public speaking events on which she relied on alcohol to help her get through. The book encourages us to cease waiting for validation but go looking for it if we are to tackle self-doubt.
Laura Dave’s “Hello, Sunshine”
The book gives us a peek into a life weaved in forgery and deception where the exposure of “Sunshine’s” deception brings her world crashing down. It passes a clear message on being consistently good and honest in whatever you do, which the heroine tries to do as she gradually starts to rebuild her life. By reading this book, you can discover ways to be authentic in your world and come to the realization that you do not need to fake it to make it!
I kind of still don’t understand what this is, but I hope to learn as I read this list.
This is a specific list I never thought I would need. Good job!