“I hear ego, hubris, arrogance…I think you’ve overestimated your contributions and underestimated your blessings.” ¹

I immediately recognized these words from the character Helena Eagan in the Apple TV+ show Severance as part of a monologue that I hear inside my head when facing new challenges or pursuing new opportunities. Negative self-talk is the voice of imposter syndrome, or a pervasive feeling of self-doubt and inadequacy even in the face of evident success and accomplishments. It’s a nagging voice that tells us we’re not good enough, and that any success we achieve is just a stroke of luck. Hearing this negative self-talk out loud, from a colleague or a manager, is the stuff of nightmares.

For decades, I have grappled with this relentless inner critic. After this scene, I had an epiphany. I realized that this voice didn’t emerge out of thin air. It was an internalization of messages from peers, friends, and family members, who gradually instilled seeds of doubt through subtle comments and overt criticisms. Because these (sometimes well-intentioned) messages are often not stated as succinctly as Helena’s condescending admonishment to Ms. Cobel, they accumulate and take root in our psyche and become difficult to recognize.

Understanding and Conquering Imposter Syndrome

Throughout my life, I have allowed the opinions and criticisms of others to shape my self-perception. It was as if their words held more weight than my own understanding of myself. This led to a persistent sense of self-doubt and insecurity, despite my achievements.

On some level, I recognized that these individuals were not commenting on my actual abilities but were reflecting their own fears and limitations. Lately, this awareness has helped me reframe my thoughts and recognize that the nagging voice inside my head; the inner critic, the echo of their voices, is not rooted in truth.

Understanding that negative feedback says more about the people giving it than it does about me feels incredibly empowering. It gives me the clarity to see my strengths and acknowledge my accomplishments. This shift in perspective has been crucial in silencing the inner critic that had held me back for so long.

Turning the Tide: Strategies to Combat Imposter Syndrome

Recognizing the roots of imposter syndrome is just the beginning. The real challenge lies in addressing and overcoming it. Fortunately, there are practical strategies that can help you shift your mindset and foster self-confidence. By incorporating these approaches into your daily life, you can gradually silence the inner critic and embrace your true potential.

1. Acknowledge the Imposter: The first step to overcoming imposter syndrome is to recognize and acknowledge it. Understand that this feeling is common and you’re not alone in experiencing it.
2. Challenge Negative Thoughts: When negative thoughts arise, counter them with positive affirmations. Remind yourself of your achievements and the hard work that led to your success.
3. Seek Support: Surround yourself with supportive individuals who uplift and encourage you. Share your feelings with trusted friends or mentors who can provide perspective and reassurance.
4. Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. Understand that everyone has moments of doubt and that it’s okay to seek support when needed.
5. Embrace Failure as Growth: Accept that failure is a natural part of growth and learning. Each setback is an opportunity to improve and build resilience.
6. Embrace Constructive Criticism: Differentiate between constructive feedback and destructive criticism. Use the former to improve and grow, while discarding the latter.
7. Celebrate Your Successes: Take time to celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. Recognize your efforts and give yourself credit where it’s due.

Moving Forward with Confidence

By recognizing that the critical voices in my head were not my own but echoes of others’ insecurities, I was able to reclaim my narrative. I learned to trust my instincts, value my contributions, and move forward with renewed confidence. In Severance, we eventually learn that Ms. Cobel’s groundbreaking work was the foundation of Lumon’s entire system. Helena’s dismissal of Ms. Cobel’s importance mirrors the way imposter syndrome can distort reality, making us question our value even when it’s undeniable. External invalidation doesn’t define internal worth.

Imposter syndrome can be a formidable opponent, but with awareness and the right strategies, it’s possible to silence the inner critic. Remember that the negative voices, whether from others or within, are not a true reflection of your abilities. By challenging these thoughts and embracing your strengths, you can achieve the success you imagine for yourself.

1. “Who is Alive?“ Severance, season 2, episode 3. Stiller, Ben. AppleTV+. 31 Jan. 2025. ↩︎