Imposter Syndrome As a developer | My experience and how I deal with it

Summary

In this video, Elas Hadad discusses imposter syndrome, a common feeling among developers that they don't deserve their achievements. She shares her experiences and offers advice on how to cope, including self-reflection, using resources like Google, and maintaining a 'Wall of Love' to remind oneself of past successes. She emphasizes the importance of not comparing oneself to others and seeking help when needed.

Takeaways

• 🚀 Imposter Syndrome is a common feeling among developers, where they fear being exposed as a fraud despite their achievements.
• 🔄 The constant evolution of best practices and technology in the field can lead to a sense of pressure and the fear of missing out.
• 🤔 Developers, especially those without a CS degree, may feel less capable compared to their peers, but online resources can bridge this gap.
• 💡 Viewing Imposter Syndrome as an opportunity for self-reflection and skill improvement can be a positive approach.
• 🧠 Acknowledging the human limitation of not knowing everything and using resources like Google is a healthy way to cope with uncertainty.
• 💼 It's important not to feel bad when you don't know something; admitting it or seeking help is better than pretending to know.
• 😌 Imposter Syndrome should not be taken too seriously as it can negatively impact mental health and productivity.
• 📋 Keeping a record of personal achievements, such as positive reviews or recommendations, can help combat feelings of being an imposter.
• 🌟 Comparing your progress to your own past performance rather than to others can alleviate the stress of Imposter Syndrome.
• 🤝 Embracing the fact that many developers experience Imposter Syndrome and seeking comfort in the shared experience can be beneficial.
• 🆘 Don't hesitate to ask for help or discuss Imposter Syndrome with others; open conversation can provide relief and solutions.

Q & A

What is imposter syndrome?

Imposter syndrome is a psychological pattern where individuals doubt their accomplishments and have a persistent fear of being exposed as a fraud despite evidence of their competence.

Why is imposter syndrome common in the software development field?

Imposter syndrome is common in software development because the field is constantly evolving, requiring continuous learning and skill acquisition, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy or fear of being outpaced.

What is Elas Hadad's professional background?

Elas Hadad is a founding engineer in a tech startup called Ed frame and has been working in the field of web development for over four years.

How does Elas Hadad deal with imposter syndrome?

Elas deals with imposter syndrome by viewing it as an opportunity for self-reflection and skill improvement, acknowledging the limits of human knowledge, and maintaining a 'wall of love' to remind himself of his achievements.

What is the 'wall of love' mentioned by Elas Hadad?

The 'wall of love' is a notion page where Elas collects all his achievements, such as positive reviews on his PR or LinkedIn recommendations, to remind himself of his worth and counteract feelings of being an imposter.

Why is it important not to compare oneself with others in the context of imposter syndrome?

Comparing oneself with others can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy, as everyone has different backgrounds, work environments, and personal stories. Focusing on personal progression is more constructive.

How can embracing imposter syndrome be beneficial?

Embracing imposter syndrome can be beneficial as it can serve as a catalyst for personal and mental growth, encouraging individuals to confront their fears and improve themselves.

What advice does Elas Hadad give for dealing with imposter syndrome?

Elas advises not to take imposter syndrome too seriously, as it can negatively impact mental health and productivity. He also suggests not hesitating to ask for help when needed.

Why is it recommended to ask for help when dealing with imposter syndrome?

Asking for help can provide support and different perspectives, which can be crucial in overcoming the negative effects of imposter syndrome and improving one's mental well-being.

What is the role of online resources in learning computer science, as mentioned by Elas Hadad?

Online resources play a significant role in learning computer science, allowing individuals without a formal CS degree to acquire necessary skills and knowledge, thus challenging the notion that a degree is the sole determinant of competence.