When author Julissa Arce started her career at Goldman Sachs, she was undocumented and surrounded by people with privileged upbringings. She felt like she didn’t belong.
“A lot of times it’s in your head. My colleagues didn’t really expressively make me feel like I was less than them.”
The specific brand of insecurity, called ‘imposter syndrome,’ is common amongst Latinos because historically we’ve been excluded in prominent spaces, and sometimes achieving success makes us doubt that we deserve it.
Imposter syndrome is serious and can be debilitating…
It’s like listening to a harsh judge in your head, which can end up negatively affecting your work, and life.
About 70% of people experience imposter syndrome in their lives. But women of color are most susceptible…
So how do we overcome these feelings? Psychologists suggest you confide in trusted friends or a professional, to put your thoughts in perspective.
But it’s essential to recognize that you’ve earned your position or role, and that you are a valuable contributor. It’s time to recognize imposter syndrome, and keep it from limiting your life.
