Edina Hall

Dear Friends in Christ,

I have been hearing a lot about the concept of the Imposter Syndrome lately. It is an actual diagnosis, but I have seen it popping up all over the place in the media. While possibly over simplified, it can be described as “a collection of feelings of inadequacy that persist despite evident success” (Harvard Business Review). I know that I sometimes I think I suffer from it—feeling as if I am not as talented or competent as others believe or that I actually am, even in the face of success. I am sure that I will be “found out” and the jig will be up. One might argue that when I sink into the Imposter Syndrome, it is because I don’t have enough confidence or self-assurance. Maybe I am too much of a perfectionist or too self-critical. Maybe it is fostered in my work environment or was seeded when I was growing up. It certainly could be all of the above. So, what can I do when my trinity (me, myself and I) are at odds and foster the imposter? 

First, I realize that I am in good company. I mean if I stop and think about it, our biblical ancestors could have had a bit of this Imposter Syndrome—just look at Moses, especially at the burning bush. But, as I was reminded in today’s lectionary reading, there are also many examples of those that either don't have it or overcame it. 

Abram packed up his life, belongings, and family to leave his country, kindred, and father’s house with the promise of being the father of a great nation. Noah built a boat despite what must have been public mockery. Esther stood up to a king to save her people. Perhaps it was obedience but maybe, when God called them, they leaned into the faith that God had in them to build up their own faith in themselves. Fostering that faith and combining it with the ensuing strength saved nations!

So, I begin this new year wondering what it might look like if I could really embrace and nurture the faith that God has for me. Because I feel, if I can listen to Him and respond to that faith, it might just be a good remedy for feeling like an imposter. And with that out of the picture, I can only imagine what God has in store for me.

Wondering and wandering with Christ,

—Edina