Imposter syndrome is a universal phenomenon, but as olim, we are particularly susceptible to it. We worry that we can’t keep up in Hebrew, that our skills are not up to par here in Israel or that we don’t fit in socially at our workplace. Luckily, imposter syndrome can be conquered or at least quieted enough that it doesn’t get in the way of doing a good job.
Acknowledge your imposter syndrome
Identify the negative thoughts that are not rooted in reality, so you can see them for what they are–a manifestation of imposter syndrome. Do you really need to improve your Hebrew to be understood in the workplace or is your current mastery sufficient? Are your skills actually sub-par or were you hired for what you bring to the table? Are you in fact being left out of social interactions or is everyone very nice to you?
Challenge the negative thoughts
When you start having these negative thoughts, challenge them by turning them around. “My Hebrew isn’t good enough” quickly becomes “Look how far my Hebrew has come since aliyah.” Instead of focusing on the skills you don’t have, focus on what you do know and the instances when it was appreciated by superiors and colleagues. Pay attention to the friendships that you have formed at work and don’t fret over the friends you haven’t made yet.
Ask for support
There’s nothing more validating than support. Talk to a friend, spouse, mentor or therapist about your feelings. Ask for their perspective and trust them when they tell you how they see you. It can be tempting to turn to colleagues for reassurance, but in most cases, it’s best to keep your insecurities quiet at work. You don’t want your doubts to suddenly become theirs.
Stop comparing yourself to native Israelis
Native Israelis may have advantages you don’t have in the workplace, but they also have disadvantages that they struggle with. You have excellent English and a cultural perspective that’s unique. Who’s to say that your Israeli colleagues aren’t envious of you? Stop focusing on comparisons and pay more attention to your own journey.
Share your knowledge
You have knowledge that no one else at your company has. Don’t be afraid to share it. Help others and promote the good of the company as a whole. Soon you’ll forget you ever had imposter syndrome and no one else will notice either.
