Do You Still Feel That You're Not Good Enough?

"If you feel that you're not good enough, you're not alone. Research has shown how many successful people suffer from imposter syndrome, believing that they're not good enough (Bravata et al., 2020). A recent international review revealed the prevalence of inferiority feelings in people around the world (Amani & Taqiyah, 2024). I've been there too. I was a shy child who loved books, while my brother was a charming extrovert and my mother's favorite."

"But school was a different story. I loved learning, got good grades, and my teachers recognized and acknowledged me. When my mother told me that they couldn't afford to send me to college, I got a job at the local newspaper and worked my way through college. I received a graduate fellowship, went on to get a PhD, and began teaching college students."

Many people experience feelings of not being good enough, including imposter syndrome and widespread inferiority feelings across cultures. Negative childhood messages can form an inner critic that repeats dismissive comments. Academic success and external recognition can coexist with internal doubt. Responding resiliently to adversity enables achievement despite discouragement and limited resources. Examples show perseverance overcoming parental opposition to creative pursuits and dysfunctional family ridicule. Self-compassion offers a way to comfort oneself and support healing from persistent feelings of inadequacy. Empowering others involves helping them discover strengths and recognize their inherent value.

Read at Psychology Today