Today’s topic: Dealing With Your Imposter Syndrome

Welcome back to the Stop, Drop, and Roll, Baby! ™ Blog, your trusted source of support and guidance when navigating the challenges of married life. 

Today, we're tackling a particularly thorny issue that many face: the imposter syndrome. 

What is the imposter syndrome?

It's a psychological phenomenon in which individuals doubt their accomplishments and persistently fear being exposed as frauds despite evidence of their competence and success.

Those experiencing imposter syndrome attribute their achievements to luck, timing, or other external factors rather than their own abilities. This condition can lead to chronic self-doubt, anxiety, and a lack of self-confidence, even in the face of objectively high performance and external validation. 

For those new to our Stop, Drop, and Roll, Baby! ™ mini-series, take a moment to read about its origins here. It's a story of transformation and resilience that has saved countless marriages.

Now, let's dive into today's topic!

How to Stop, Drop, and Roll with Your Imposter Syndrome

1. Stop fueling the imposter syndrome.
   
   The first step is to stop feeding your imposter syndrome with self-doubt.
   
   Instead, acknowledge your successes and remind yourself that you have earned your place through hard work and dedication.
   
   Say to yourself: I am a resourceful, accomplished woman.
   

2. Drop the need for perfection.
   
   One of the driving forces behind the imposter syndrome is the unrealistic pursuit of perfection.

   Battle-weary wives have this in spades and we often set impossibly high standards for ourselves, believing that anything less than flawless is a failure.
   
   Ladies, it's time to release this pressure and accept that mistakes and setbacks are natural parts of growth and learning.
   
   Say to yourself: I embrace my imperfections and see them as opportunities for improvement.
   

   3. Roll into self-compassion and acceptance.
   
   Now that you've stopped fueling the imposter syndrome and dropped the need for perfection, it's time to roll into self-compassion and acceptance.

   Engage in activities that strengthen your authentic self — that part of you that knows the truth of who you are — divine, whole, and complete. Treat yourself with kindness and compassionate understanding. Offer yourself words of encouragement and support. Walk barefoot outdoors and connect with the wonderous Mother Earth energy that supports all living beings.

   Remember: True confidence comes from being comfortable in your skin and valuing yourself for who you are.

   
   Learning to Stop, Drop, and Roll your imposter syndrome is a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Recognizing when the imposter syndrome arises, releasing the need for perfection, and embracing self-acceptance can cultivate a deeper sense of confidence and authenticity. 

So take a deep breath, embrace your true self, and roll forward with courage and grace. Until next time, remember that you are more than enough just as you are.

All it takes is one person in the relationship to stop, drop, and roll to smother the flames. Then, when it’s time, you’ll return to the conversation feeling inner-centered, emotionally balanced, and ready to invite conversation. 

In the meantime, if the flames are getting hot and you'd like help putting them out, wives, I’m here for you. Or, if you’d like help as a couple, click here.