Understanding Imposter Syndrome in BSL Interpreters

Are you a BSL interpreter who often feels like you're not good enough, despite your qualifications and experience? Do you fear being exposed as a "fake," even when clients and colleagues praise your work? If so, you might be experiencing imposter syndrome.

What is Imposter Syndrome?

Imposter syndrome is a psychological pattern where individuals doubt their accomplishments and have a persistent fear of being exposed as a "fraud." This feeling is not limited to any particular profession, but it can be particularly prevalent among those in high-stakes, highly skilled roles like BSL interpreters.

Types of Imposter Syndrome

Understanding the different types of imposter syndrome can help you identify specific challenges you may face. For BSL interpreters, this can manifest in various ways:

1. Perfectionism: Do you obsess over every sign, fearing that a minor mistake will reveal your "incompetence"?

2. Expert complex: Do you feel you need to know everything about Deaf culture and BSL to be a "real" interpreter?

3. Natural genius: Do you believe that if you were truly skilled, interpreting would come effortlessly?

4. Soloist: Do you struggle to ask for help, fearing it will expose your "inadequacy"?

5. Superwoman/man: Are you constantly overworking to prove your worth?

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How it affects BSL Interpreters

Imposter syndrome is a common but challenging mindset that can affect BSL interpreters both professionally and personally.

➤ Professionally

Imposter syndrome can severely impact your professional life as a BSL interpreter:

• Decreased Job Satisfaction: Constantly doubting your abilities can make your job feel more stressful and less rewarding.

• Burnout: Overworking to prove yourself can lead to physical and emotional exhaustion.

• Missed Opportunities: You might avoid taking on new challenges or opportunities for fear of failure or being "found out."

• Communication Barriers: Doubting your skills can affect your confidence, which is crucial for effective communication in interpreting.

➤ Personally

On a personal level, imposter syndrome can erode your self-esteem and overall well-being:

• Chronic Anxiety: Persistent feelings of inadequacy can lead to ongoing anxiety.

• Isolation: Feeling like a fraud can make you withdraw from colleagues and peers.

• Perfectionism: Striving for unattainable perfection can negatively impact your mental health and relationships.

Practical examples to identify and overcome Imposter Syndrome

By identifying the signs and taking proactive steps to address them, you can build confidence in your skills and enjoy a more fulfilling career and life.

➤ Identifying Imposter Syndrome

Ask yourself these questions:

• Do you attribute your success to luck or outside factors?

• Do you fear that others will eventually find out you're not as capable as they think?

• Do you downplay your achievements, thinking they aren’t as significant as others believe?

• Do you feel like you don't deserve your job or accomplishments?

If you answered "yes" to several of these questions, you might be experiencing imposter syndrome.

➤ Practical examples of imposter syndrome in BSL interpreting:

• Hesitating to apply for higher-level assignments, even when qualified

• Downplaying your skills when colleagues compliment your work

• Feeling intense anxiety before interpreting in new settings

➤ Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

1. Acknowledge your feelings: Recognise and accept that you are feeling like an imposter. This is the first step to overcoming these thoughts.

2. Talk about it: Share your feelings with a trusted colleague, mentor, or therapist. Talking can help you realise that you are not alone.

3. Reframe your thoughts: Challenge negative self-talk by reminding yourself of your achievements and the effort you have put in.

4. Set realistic goals: Aim for progress, not perfection. Set achievable goals and celebrate your successes.

5. Seek feedback: Constructive feedback from peers and mentors can help you gain a more accurate perspective on your abilities.

6. Embrace lifelong learning: Understand that needing to learn and ask questions is a part of professional growth, not a sign of incompetence.

Practical Tips

• Keep a success journal: Regularly write down your achievements, big or small, to remind yourself of your capabilities.

• Mindfulness and self-compassion: Practice mindfulness and be kind to yourself. Understand that everyone makes mistakes and that they are opportunities for growth.

• Professional development: Engage in continuous learning and training, but recognise when you are using it as a means to validate yourself unnecessarily.

Do you think you might be experiencing imposter syndrome? Start by acknowledging your feelings and take small, actionable steps to overcome this mindset today. Your expertise and dedication as a BSL interpreter are valuable and worthy of recognition.

Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

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