Evolutionary Past Meets Modern Self-Doubt

Imposter syndrome and the freeze response are two phenomena that can significantly impact personal and professional success, often intertwining to create a cycle of self-doubt and inaction. Understanding their relationship can help us break free from their grip and move towards greater confidence and productivity.

Imposter syndrome is a psychological pattern where individuals doubt their accomplishments and fear being exposed as a fraud. Despite evidence of their competence, those experiencing imposter syndrome often attribute their success to luck rather than skill. This can lead to chronic anxiety, stress, and a persistent fear of failure.

The freeze response, one of the body’s automatic reactions to perceived threats, is part of the fight-flight-freeze trio. When faced with a stressful situation, some people may become immobilized, unable to act or make decisions. This response is rooted in our evolutionary past, where freezing could help avoid detection by predators.

A Paralyzing Cycle

Imposter syndrome can contribute to heightened stress and anxiety, which might lead to the freeze response in some individuals. When it does, it can create a paralyzing cycle. Imagine you’re about to present a big project at work. Despite extensive preparation, you start doubting your capabilities. Thoughts like "I don’t belong here" or "Everyone will see I’m a fraud" flood your mind. This surge of negative self-talk can activate the freeze response, leaving you unable to speak or perform effectively. The more you freeze, the stronger your imposter syndrome feels, reinforcing the cycle.

To combat this, it’s crucial to develop somatic awareness. Start by noticing the physical sensations present in your body when imposter syndrome is looming. Do the muscles around your neck, shoulders, or back tighten? Do you feel nauseated? Do you feel dizzy and lightheaded? Or do you feel something else? By noticing and recognizing imposter syndrome as some flavor of a perceived threat response, you can navigate the discomfort in real time and build your capacity to be with uncomfortable emotions.

Reconnect With Your Body

Reconnect with your body to regulate your emotions and stay connected with your rational and logical thinking. Let your eyes land on something pleasing in your environment. Ask yourself if this is “unsafe or just uncomfortable?” Revel in the feelings of previous successes.

Breaking free from imposter syndrome and circumventing the freeze response takes practice, time, and curiosity, but with consistent effort and mindfulness, you can learn to manage these challenges, regulate your emotions, embrace your achievements, and move forward with confidence.