A few weeks ago, I saw a video of a guy joking, “You do not have imposter syndrome. You are just bad at your job. You don’t feel like you belong there because you don’t. You are bad at your job.” While I laughed at the absurdity and harshness of these statements, it got me thinking about the concept of imposter syndrome and its validity. 

Imposter syndrome is a psychological phenomenon described as the internal experience of doubting one’s abilities and fearing exposure as a “fraud” despite evidence of success. It tends to make people limit themselves and take fewer chances or opportunities, fearing they do not rightfully deserve them. 

In any new environment, you are bound to feel out of place. You don’t know the people, the customs or what will be expected of you. This, however, is never an indication that you do not have the tools or capabilities to eventually belong there. Your response should never be, “I can’t do this.” It should be, “I’m going to learn.” Yes, maybe you are just bad at your job right now, but in these situations, you just need time to adapt.  

Any room where you feel immediately revered by everyone is most likely full of people trying to get you to buy something. Much like the phrase, “If you’re the smartest person in the room, you’re in the wrong room,” any opportunity worth stepping into is going to feel like a challenge at first. I have watched friends quit opportunities because they were out of their comfort zone or would have had to work to get to the level of the other people involved. Imagine how many breakthroughs and advancements our society has lost out on because people weren’t brave enough to stay in the room. 

Of course, there are times when you are simply not in the right place. Maybe the environment is toxic, the work is dull, it does not align with your interests or people are actively trying to make sure you don’t belong. If you are feeling this way after giving it a full try, you should definitely move on to a different environment. However, don’t mistake a challenge for an impossibility. 

This summer, whether you are heading into a new class, an internship or your shiny new full-time job, abandon the feelings that you don’t and will never belong. Recognize this opportunity for growth. Imposter syndrome is a real feeling, but it doesn’t have to be one that controls you. Get better at your job, and you will belong.