Written by: Michele Molitor, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
AI is here to stay. Yet, could it be an antidote for imposter syndrome?
The rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become an undeniable reality of our time. Built to enhance our efficiency and effectiveness across all aspects of work and life, AI offers a myriad of solutions for improving productivity and our quality of life.
However, like any powerful tool, it comes with its drawbacks when misused. The duality of AI’s potential has been vividly demonstrated as more advanced AI programs have come online this year. These tools have not only streamlined our work processes but have also, unfortunately, been used unethically and even negatively by some bad actors.
A chilling example is a recent case where a mother testified before Congress about her 15-year-old daughter's voice being duplicated and manipulated to stage a ransom threat. Unaware of the scheme, the parents believed their daughter was in danger, while in reality, she was enjoying a skiing trip with friends.
While the debate will continue on about how to best use and regulate these powerful tools, the positive implications of AI cannot be overlooked. From business to education to science to medicine, powerful AI tools are helping us expand our thinking like never before in the history of mankind.
Throughout my career I've constantly endeavored to expand my knowledge, always seeking to learn and stay up-to-date on the latest tools and resources to best serve my clients as a coach and mental health professional.
However, my enthusiasm has not been without its challenges and setbacks. One recurring friend and foe of mine has been Imposter Syndrome.
The rise of imposter syndrome
The job site Indeed reports that 3 out of 5 people have grappled with Imposter Syndrome at some point in their career. Characterized by an internal struggle or nagging feeling that others see you as smarter, more effective, more capable than you believe yourself to be.
Caused by underlying issues of self-doubt, low self-worth, self-esteem or self-confidence, Imposter Syndrome can severely impact productivity, resulting in:
Increased procrastination
Extended work hours
Higher staff turnover
Decreased productivity
Reluctance in applying for internal promotions
Rising stress and related health issues
Even depression and other mental health challenges, if left unchecked
How can AI help alleviate imposter syndrome?
Through two decades of my study and research, I've discovered that these core drivers of self-doubt, low self-worth, and lack of confidence typically stem from deep-seated subconscious beliefs. These limiting mindsets and mental saboteurs distract us, fostering negative thoughts such as “I’m not enough” or “Who am I to do XYZ…?” that can lead to excessive perfectionism, procrastination, and second guessing our every step.
AI tools offer a way to swiftly bypass these mental obstacles, enabling you to get back to a place of flow, the state of total immersion in an activity that opens up channels to greater levels of creative thinking and intuition. This theta brain wave state (3.5 to 8 Hz) is the state of being fully in the now moment, where the ego falls away and enables us to tap into deeper levels of expansive creative thinking to apply to the challenges at hand. Theta and alpha brain wave states are also associated with increased calm and a decrease in depressive and anxious thoughts.
As an analogy, consider my approach to painting. To overcome the intimidation of a blank canvas, I begin by covering it entirely in gold acrylic paint. This simple strategy bypasses my critical judging mind and initial fears of "What should I paint and where do I start!?" and redirects my thoughts to "How can I incorporate this gold texture into the vision in my mind’s eye?"
Similarly, AI tools like Chat GPT help to eliminate the intimidating 'blank canvas' of a task, enabling our subconscious to relax and work with us, rather than against us. Empowering our creative genius to expand further.
Finding the best tool for the job
So, the next time you find yourself in the grip of imposter syndrome that’s stirring up your perfectionism, procrastination, or self-doubt, consider reaching for an AI tool. It might be just what you need to break free from your self-imposed constraints, assisting you to remove the blinders of self-doubt and boost your confidence.
Remember, a healthy degree of imposter syndrome can serve as a beneficial motivator, prompting you to challenge norms, seek innovative solutions, and strive to better your work. Whether you need assistance in drafting an article or visualizing a project, AI can be a powerful ally, guiding you back to your zone of genius.
It’s when imposter syndrome becomes debilitating or chronic that asking for support is key. Whether you reach for an AI tool or call a friend or a coach for support, we all can benefit from a little assistance now and then. Giving you a fresh perspective that can assist you in moving beyond your self-perceived limitations so you can share your ideas and expertise in ways you hadn’t yet imagined.
Remember, every tool is only as good as the hands that wield it, and in the right hands, AI can be the antidote to Imposter Syndrome.
If you’d like some additional, human support to assist you in taming your imposter syndrome, then grab my free ebook: “What’s Causing Your Imposter Syndrome? 6 Triggers Crushing Your Confidence” In it you’ll find tips and tools to help you reset your thinking and reclaim your peace of mind.
Michele Molitor, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Michele Molitor is a trailblazer in personal transformation. Utilizing her expertise as a coach, hypnotherapist, speaker, and author, her work intentionally addresses the pervasive mental health crisis we face today. As CEO of Nectar Consulting, Inc., a certified B Corporation, her mission is to empower busy professionals to conquer anxiety, self-doubt, and toxic stress, paving the way for fulfilling lives and careers. Dubbed “The Mind Detective” by her clients, Michele’s innovative healing approach masterfully fuses scientific, somatic, and energetic principles for holistic transformation. Her vision is to help create thriving work cultures where emotional well-being is cultivated through acceptance.
