The imposter syndrome is real
Written by Beth Tripp
Imposter syndrome is something that a lot of people experience in the nutrition industry, as well as others. No matter how much experience or education we receive, we can all have those days and experiences where we just feel we don’t deserve to be here. I am not saying these days will never occur again after reading this blog, but here are some tips to get past the imposter syndrome:
- First of all, remember that if you are a registered nutritionist or dietician you have completed a whole degree, maybe even a masters on top of it, so you know your stuff. On top of that, if you are registered with the Association for Nutrition you are required to complete 30 hours worth of continuing professional development, so you are required to keep up-to-date with your nutrition knowledge.
- Keep a little file/notes page/ whatever you find easiest of positive feedback. For example, if your manager gives you praise for something or a client gives a good testimonial, keep it written somewhere so you can reflect on days when you are feeling a little low.
- Make a list of everything you have to offer a client. If you work with clients you must help them achieve something, so what is it? Whether it’s improving their relationship with food, educating them about nutrition in general, or anything really, the client has come to you so it’s not advise that they can get on their own. Remember, it’s also likely that there are others out there offering a similar service but they are choosing you to come to. They chose you!
- Avoid comparing yourself to others. Yes some people may have more years of experience than you, but remember this could be you one day. A lot of the time we compare over social media accounts of people, and this doesn’t truly capture how the reality is for them. Professionals may not post about their imposter syndrome days or down days, after all how would they install confidence in their clients if they did.
- Talk to someone. If you are working for a company then maybe talking to another employee is a good person to speak to as they might experience the same feelings. If you are a freelance worker there are groups such as Sense Nutrition, and not forgetting the Nutrition Graduates community.
Of course, imposter syndrome isn’t always a bad thing. If you are experiencing imposter syndrome it may mean that you are pushing yourself to achieve new things, and this is a good thing! That said if you are happy in your comfort zone that is also okay and not something to be ashamed of.
I hope this blog has left you feeling better equipped to deal with the dreaded imposter syndrome, and maybe even a feeling that you are not alone in this. Remember to reach out to family and friends if it all gets a little too much!