What do you do if you're feeling like an imposter as a data architect and need a confidence boost?

Whenever I feel like an imposter as a data architect, I focus on three things: reviewing successful past projects to remind myself of my achievements, discussing current challenges with peers to realize I’m not alone, and engaging in continuous learning to reinforce my expertise. These steps boost my confidence and affirm my value in the field.

Celebrate your wins, no matter how small. Remember why you started on this path, look how far you've come. Don't let the impostor feeling get you, keep your eyes on the goal and forge ahead!

Your state of mind determines the story you tell yourself. Your self-doubt will skew your perspective of what is real, shining the flashlight of focus on negative and completely brush off the positive. But remember--your self-doubt cannot take away from the FACT of your accomplishments. So if you are in a negative state of mind, take a step back and do something else that connects you to a lighter space (i.e. go for a walk outside). THEN reflect on your work from this space. I recommend writing every single thing you've done as a data architect out, no matter how big or small. You'll likely come up with different insights than if you were in a negative mindset :)

Sharing my knowledge has contributed the most to my professional journey. It put me on the path of learning continuously. Knowing that others depend on me to guide them in their IT careers makes me learn deeply and thoroughly. Sharing knowledge is a confidence boost!

How would you treat a friend going through the same negative thoughts as you? Hold compassion and space for that part of you that is feeling bad, as you would hold compassion for a loved one or young child that came to you saying "I'm not good enough". Would you yell at them, saying "You're so right! You're not good enough!"? Hopefully not, right? You'd look at them with compassion and care and say something like, "I know you're feeling down, and that's okay. Let's take a deep breath together, tell me what's going on. You're wonderful and amazing." etc. :) Tell yourself the words you wish to hear from others, because at the end of the day that's what truly fulfills us, not the words of other people.

To combat feelings of imposter syndrome as a data architect: 1. Network More: Engage with peers in your field to gain perspective and realize that many professionals share similar doubts. 2. Mentorship: Seek a mentor who can provide guidance, reassurance, and an objective view of your capabilities and achievements. 3. Participate in Community: Join professional communities or forums where you can discuss challenges and solutions with others in your field. 4. Celebrate Small Wins: Regularly acknowledge and celebrate even small accomplishments to build confidence and reinforce your sense of achievement. 5. Therapy or Coaching: Consider professional help such as therapy or career coaching to address deeper issues related to self-doubt.

If you struggle with imposter syndrome, likely somewhere along your upbringing, you learned that your self-worth as a human is dependent on your achievements, so when you doubt your performance, it hurts extra hard. So having compassion for yourself is crucial! My mission is to help people break free of these negative beliefs so they can thrive, so if you would like to chat, I'm happy to support you :)