How to Overcome Impostor Syndrome
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How to Overcome Impostor Syndrome as a New Grad Physical Therapist?
Impostor syndrome is one of the biggest fears & symptoms of being a new grad. However, it’s common all across our industry and can last far beyond graduation.
Many those who I coach struggle with impostor syndrome, no matter how long ago they graduated.
Heck, even I struggle with it most days.
Impostor syndrome is a psychological pattern in which one doubts their accomplishments and has a persistent internalized fear of being exposed as a “fraud”.
Impostor syndrome is a real thing in any field of practice or career, and it does not just apply to entrepreneurs, but it seems especially strong coming out of school as a PT. And it will limit your growth.
Chiropractors and dentist graduate from school expecting to start their own practice, so why don’t we as PTs?
Maybe because we are trained to believe we are not ready for it in school, in my opinion. School teaches us how to be employees and that we are not ready for anything else.
Whether you are starting as a travel PT or starting a business, it’s important to address any feelings of impostor syndrome, so that it doesn’t hinder your progress toward you goals in the future. That’s why, in my programs, I always address mindset first-
So before you say, “I CAN’T do that, I’m a new grad!” or impostor syndrome creeps in…
Ask yourself these questions, and be honest with yourself:
- Are you a Doctor of Physical Therapy?
- Did you go to school for 6 or 7+ years to earn your degree to help people?
- Did you pass the NPTE (the National PT Board exam)?
- Do you know more than the person you are trying to help about their condition?
- Can you help them?
- Are you saving them time, solving their problem?
- Might they not otherwise sought care?
- Are you continuing to learn through CEUs & mentorship?
- If you can’t help them, what will you do?
- Do you have a mentor/coach that can help you?
After asking yourself these questions, does it help to diminish any feelings of Impostor Syndrome?
Let me know in the comments below.
