What makes a teacher great?

I once believed that knowing about imposter syndrome would help me overcome it.

Except, I learnt the Instagram version.

So, I was actually living in the reality of imposter syndrome while I was evading its shadow.

As defined by Cambridge dictionary: “Imposter syndrome is a frequent feeling of not deserving one’s success,… despite a sustained record of achievement.”

But no one recognized or keept record of my achievement.

So, my gradual descent into feeling like an imposter began because I wanted to be recognized.

1. I tried to do everything right if others did same thing wrong. 
2. I compared myself with individuals whom I admired for a skill or success.
3. I called myself a fool if I didn’t get something right on my first try.
4. I asked questions not purely out of curiosity or strategic information but to give a social proof of my intelligence.
5. I disbelieved everything I said, if it was not met with a nod or other signs of approval.
6. I freaked out when someone stared at me for more than four seconds because I felt they could see how I was unsuccessful as a person.
7. I didn’t ask for help in the small things that can be reassigned or in the big things that felt like a weight I can share. This is because I wanted to prove that I can handle it and that I’m not weak or inept.

My experience with imposter syndrome taught me to celebrate my small wins, to see every successful person as human, and to have faith in myself to the end.

Which of these have you experienced? Share those moments in the comments.

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