From an early age, we’re always chasing the next thing, the next measure of success. From pre-med to med school to residency and beyond, there’s always something bigger and better to strive for. And to make us feel like we’re never quite enough.
So it’s no surprise that young doctors often experience imposter syndrome - that nagging feeling that you’re not up to the task at hand.
Dr. Nondumiso Makhunga-Stevenson, a South African-trained doctor who has taken on a variety of roles including hospital management, insurance, and coaching, has experienced imposter syndrome herself.
"Coming into those types of roles where I hadn't had or hadn't received formal training in leadership, you start to wonder, am I really cut out for this?"
The good news, according to Dr. Nondumiso? There are ways to work through it. If you’re open to changing your mindset in these five key ways:
1. Realize that imposter syndrome is a normal part of professional development.
Especially when taking on new roles with increased responsibility. she says. “The self-doubt and anxiety can make you question whether you have what it takes, and you may even worry that others will see your insecurities.” Chances are, they are too busy looking at their own.
2. Build self-awareness.
Take an honest look at yourself, to really understand your strengths, weaknesses, and gaps in knowledge. "The first step is to acknowledge that you don't know everything," she says. And you don’t need to.
3. Be humble and embrace a learning mindset.
Rather than trying to fake it till you make it, Nondumiso encourages young doctors to "approach new situations where you are out of depth with some level of humility as well as curiosity. Be open to receiving advice, be open to receiving guidance, and definitely be open to receiving mentorship.”
4. Give yourself credit for how far you've come.
"We often underestimate how much we do know," Nondumiso points out. Taking the time to reflect on your accomplishments and the knowledge you've gained can help boost your confidence.
5. Practice gratitude.
“In recent years, I've learned to appreciate and to integrate a practice of gratitude, and that helps a lot. Because with every negative situation, you'll find that there's a lot more that is positive… and so being in a space of gratitude, you can become a little bit more objective about that.”
Ultimately, Dr. Nondumiso sees imposter syndrome as something that we have to continuously be mindful of. By embracing humility, seeking support, and celebrating our progress, we can move past it and continue to develop as a confident, capable doctor. It's all part of the journey.
If you’re ready to explore this part of the journey in your own career, join us for our upcoming Lucens Rotation—Training to Employment: Land Your First Job After Residency & Fellowship, beginning on September 25, 2024.
You’ll gain valuable insights from our guides and mentors who’ve traveled this path before.
