Julie Legg and Jel Legg discuss Imposter Syndrome – what it’s all about and how it can play out in the lives of those with ADHD.
They share personal experiences of navigating success without formal qualifications, discussing how ADHD traits like rejection sensitivity and emotional dysregulation intensify these struggles. From creative pursuits to professional accomplishments, they examine the impact of societal expectations and the dopamine-driven cycles of achievement and self-doubt, offering insights into how ADHDers can balance ambition with self-acceptance and resilience.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- What is Imposter Syndrome? Imposter Syndrome involves feelings of phoniness or self-doubt despite significant accomplishments. It was first identified in high-achieving women but affects individuals across all demographics, with both neurotypicals and neurodiverse being affected.
- ADHD and Imposter Syndrome: ADHD traits such as emotional dysregulation, sensitivity to criticism, and a tendency to compare oneself to others can intensify imposter feelings. Many ADHDers struggle with rejection sensitivity, making it harder to accept their achievements as deserved or valid.
- Education and Self-Teaching: Both Julie and Jel reflect on their non-traditional educational paths, achieving significant success through self-teaching and life experience rather than formal qualifications. Lack of formal credentials often amplifies feelings of inadequacy, despite their proven expertise and track records.
- Creative and Professional Pursuits: They discuss achieving high-level success in areas like marketing, web development, and music production, yet still feeling like frauds. These feelings are rooted in ADHD-driven self-doubt and societal expectations regarding qualifications.
- Strategies for Coping: Recognizing the reality of their hard work and accomplishments helps mitigate imposter feelings. Continuing to pursue passions and focusing on incremental successes can reinforce self-belief. They acknowledge the value of surrounding themselves with supportive individuals and seeking environments that align with their learning styles and interests.
- The Dopamine Connection: ADHDers often chase dopamine hits from learning new skills or completing projects, which can create a cycle of achievement followed by self-doubt. Imposter Syndrome can deter them from seeking validation or taking risks, as the fear of rejection or criticism is deeply tied to emotional experiences in childhood.
- Double-Edged: While imposter syndrome can undermine confidence, it can also act as a check on overinflated egos, helping individuals remain grounded. Balancing ambition with self-awareness is crucial to avoid emotional burnout.
LINKS
Do you have a story to share? We'd love to hear from you if you have inspiring ADHD experience/journey you'd like to share. We are looking for strategies that work for you, uplifting stories of overcoming adversity, or celebrating success.
Did you find this podcast helpful? Please subscribe if you'd like to hear more, or share with friends/family if you think there's a topic that may p
Send us a text
Thanks for listening.
