Man holding phone scrolling on Instagram / social media
Have you ever felt like a fraud, despite your accomplishments and credentials? Do you have a nagging feeling that you don't belong, or that you're not good enough? If so, you may be experiencing Imposter Syndrome. 
Imposter Syndrome is a psychological phenomenon that affects many people, especially high achievers. It is characterised by feelings of self-doubt, inadequacy, and a persistent fear of being exposed as fraudulent. People with Imposter Syndrome often feel like they are not as competent as others perceive them to be, and they may believe that their achievements are due to luck, timing, or other external factors. 
 
Last week, Linda (the founder and Managing Director of SanaMente) spoke on Imposter Syndrome at an event and one of the factors mentioned that can contribute to Imposter Syndrome is social comparison.  
 
With the rise of social media, it's easier than ever to compare ourselves to others and to feel like we're not measuring up. We see carefully curated photos and posts that show other people living seemingly perfect lives, and we start to believe that we're the only ones struggling. In truth, social media is not an accurate reflection of reality. People tend to present their best selves online, often leaving out the messy, imperfect parts of their lives. When we compare ourselves to others on social media, we're comparing ourselves to a carefully constructed image that may not be real. 
 
To overcome Imposter Syndrome, it's important to recognise that social comparison is not a healthy or productive habit. We need to stop measuring ourselves against others and start focusing on our own strengths and accomplishments. Here are 5 tips for reducing comparisons on social media: 
1. Limit your social media use.  
 
It's easy to get caught up in social media feeds for hours on end. Try to set limits on your social media use, and take breaks when you need to. 
2. Practice gratitude.  
 
Instead of focusing on what you don't have, focus on what you do have. Take time each day to think about the things you're grateful for, and write them down if it helps. 
3. Unfollow accounts that make you feel bad. 
 
If there are accounts on social media that make you feel inadequate or unhappy, unfollow them. You don't need that negativity in your life. 
4. Surround yourself with supportive people.  
 
Spend time with people who uplift and encourage you, rather than people who bring you down. 
5. Celebrate your successes.  
 
Don't be afraid to celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. Recognise your strengths and the hard work you've put in to get where you are. 
In conclusion, Imposter Syndrome is a common experience that can be exacerbated by social comparison on social media. To overcome Imposter Syndrome, it's important to reduce comparisons and focus on our own strengths and accomplishments. By practising gratitude, 
limiting social media use, unfollowing negative accounts, surrounding ourselves with supportive people, and celebrating our successes, we can break free from the cycle of self-doubt and embrace our true selves. 
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