Living with Catastrophizing: Beating the Imposter Syndrome

Recognizing Negative Spirals and Keeping Your Calm When You Fear the Worst

By: Belle Carmen

Narrated by: Melissa Costea

Hahaha! Aren't they all fools? They think that I'm the most qualified candidate for this task. I have six years of experience doing this exact task. I've done it before. I can do it again with ease.... But what if I fail?

Why are these statements familiar? The imposter syndrome is a bummer. The subconscious brain loves playing tricks on us, and catastrophizing is the meanest of all. The imposter syndrome will have you believe that you're a fraud, a nowhere cog in an engine. You'll find an attractive person; you'll stride toward them, one foot at a time, and you'll chicken out from the approach because you're not "yet" ready. Then it might hit you...maybe you should just do nothing and wait for the perfect time or person to make your move. You haven't mastered that pickup line. You aren't wearing your favorite pants, and they’re not your type.

©2021 Jamie McLeod (P)2021 Jamie McLeod