Many professionals suffer from imposter syndrome, the feeling that they are not actually qualified—and as qualified as their peers—for their position. This is particularly an issue for women and people of color.
In an article in Forbes, Avery Blank writes about three myths Imposter Syndrome has taught us we need to leave behind. She explains,
“If your intent is to stretch yourself, not deceive, then you are not doing something wrong. If you say ‘no’ to every opportunity that interested you, you are missing out and hindering your professional development and career advancement.
Successful professionals seek out opportunities to learn. Feeling like you are a fraud may prevent you from growing. Just because you may not know everything now does not mean you can’t learn it. You don’t have to be an expert from the start. You are smart. You will figure out what you don’t yet know.”
