Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

Imposter Syndrome is a condition in which one feels like they aren't qualified to do what they've been tasked to do or have gotten to where they are through sheer luck. Not only have I personally experienced this and continue to almost 20 years into my career, but almost every developer I've ever met has dealt with it. It's even more common in the Drupal community with people being labeled as Site Builders or Themers instead of developers.

When developing/designing/managing/cooking, do you ever feel like:

- You are faking your skills
- You are only where you are due to circumstances and/or luck
- Anyone could do what you're doing
- You don't understand why you're being trusted with the task
- At any moment someone is going to discover how bad you are at your job

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you may be suffering from Imposter Syndrome. Congratulations. Acceptance is the first step to recovery.

In my presentation, I'll talk about common ways that Imposter Syndrome expresses itself and some concrete tips & tricks on how to deal with it, both for yourself and coworkers or employees.

Not convinced that other people actually suffer from this too? We'll talk about some specific examples of mine and other's bouts with Imposter Syndrome in what I like to call Disasterpiece Theater.

We'll also get an assist from Dr. Seuss as we go along with a satirical dev-flavored reading of "Oh, The Places You'll Code". Turns out that it's an amazing allegory for learning development.

Another big takeaway is the Test-Driven Personal Development flowchart, which breaks down complicated emotions into a simple diagram that can be followed with logic. No more pesky emotions getting in the way of your work!

This session is for developers of all ages and experience levels, especially the ones who have battles with self-doubt, but even if you don't struggle with it often, you will come away with ways that you can help other developers on your team.

Session takeaways: 

1. How to identify, prevent, and combat bouts of Imposter Syndrome.

2. Real world examples of proven developers' examples of Imposter Syndrome.

3. The Test-Driven Personal Development Flowchart.

4. The knowledge that you are not alone and that we all suffer from this condition.