How Developers Can Overcome Imposter Syndrome?
Tags: impostersyndrome, career, advice, beginners
Published: 2020-03-04 08:53:22

Imposter syndrome is not a disease but is vicious if entertained for too long. Since self-doubt is within the fabrics of human nature, it can become hard to break the cycle. Developers face this as much as any other professional, and the feelings of inadequacy attacks regardless of how extensive or little the experience is. You could be a budding developer who started a year ago or a senior with years of successful work behind you – chronic self-doubt pokes its head out, making you feel small and incompetent when the opposite is actually true.  

You must have gathered by now that this is coming from a personal space as a developer myself? And I did become mindful and changed a few things around me and within me to steer clear of self-deprecating thought patterns. (Not the best thing for your career and inner-peace)

So let’s go through the ways to battle it out like a pro!


##Take it easy 

Software development is demanding, fast-paced, and ever-changing. Developers require to keep up and update their knowledge and skillset whilst treading unknown fields to get the hang of it as quickly as possible. YES, it is hectic and can take a toll on you. So take it easy, you are no wizard, but you are smart and will learn when given enough time and effort. 

No need to run in the rat race and try to be great at everything – and if you fail to keep up, self-doubt will seep in, dulling your spirits. 

##Keep track of your accomplishments big or small 

Now what you can do is reflect on your accomplishments to keep such feelings of inadequacy at bay. Of course, this wouldn’t have been recommended if you were full of yourself, but since that is not the case here – Your humble soul needs a good look at those wins to remind yourself of how awesome and hardworking you are. 

So take screenshots of your wins, positive reviews on your work and yourself, emails, anything and everything encouraging. Now place them in a separate folder and go through it whenever imposter syndrome pays you an unwelcome visit. 

##Find yourself a mentor 

You’re not alone in your struggle, and if you find the right person for guidance, you will find this to be part of everyone’s dark side. A mentor who is a senior and has gone through the path you are treading on will help you whenever you are unsure and stuck. The key is to find someone who will push you forward through positive reinforcements and enlightenment.

##Pick a new skill and stick to it 

Coming back to the first point, de-clutter. You do not need multiple things on your plate. As a developer, you would want to learn something entirely and not half-way through. So whenever you pick something that will assist you in your current or future projects, practice every day. You can even set a reasonable timeline for yourself, in which you would want to have working practical knowledge. 

This way, you wouldn’t have to worry about several other things that need your attention, leaving you feeling inadequate or incapable of multi-studying? Sticking entirely to one thing will not only sharpen your focus and increase your grasping ability, but will also give you a sense of purpose. 

#Lastly, 
•	Know you are trying your best and will learn it at your own pace. 
•	You can make mistakes, un-learn, and re-learn. It is, after all, a part of the developer’s journey. 
•	You work hard, write kick-ass code, deliver the product to the best of your abilities, and this alone makes you a champ. 

So keep moving forward and not let self-doubt take that much space in your mind.