Latest news with #psychology
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
'The Laws of LinkedIn': Unlocks psychology-driven growth to build influence, attract clients & grow income on the world's #1 professional platform
Now an Amazon #1 Bestseller — Cullen P. Haynes reveals 23 psychology-based laws that transformed his LinkedIn presence into a client-generating influence engine. SYDNEY, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Australia's #1 finance broker for lawyers, Cullen P. Haynes, makes his publishing debut with "The Laws of LinkedIn" (published by Balboa Press AU) — a high-impact guide for professionals ready to turn their LinkedIn presence into a pipeline for influence, clients, and income. Inspired by Haynes' journey from zero connections to becoming Australia's #1 finance broker for lawyers, "The Laws of LinkedIn" distills years of personal success into 23 actionable laws that are rooted in human psychology and tested by real-world success. Each law is designed to help professionals, entrepreneurs, and business owners leverage LinkedIn to create authentic engagement, elevate personal branding, and monetize their presence with confidence From enhancing visibility to building a loyal digital tribe and generating qualified leads, this book helps readers understand what truly drives results on the world's most powerful professional networking platform. "In an increasingly digital and competitive world, standing out and building an authentic online presence is more important than ever," Haynes states. "Unlike other LinkedIn guides that offer generic tips, this book provides specific laws and strategies that readers can implement right away. When you implement these laws, your LinkedIn presence will transform from a bland, two-dimensional resume into a dynamic, value-driven influence engine that helps you stand above your competition." As remote work, online visibility, and personal branding redefine how we build careers, "The Laws of LinkedIn" is the timely roadmap professionals need to expand their reach and income. Whether starting out or scaling up, these laws will help readers build real traction where it counts. Visit Amazon ( and Balboa Press ( to purchase a copy. "The Laws of LinkedIn" By Cullen P. Haynes Softcover | 6 x 9in | 274 pages | ISBN 9798765201077 E-Book | 274 pages | ISBN 9798765200858 Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble About the Author Cullen P. Haynes is Australia's top finance broker on LinkedIn, specializing in serving legal professionals. With years of experience managing an award-winning brokerage, Legal Home Loans, he has built a top-tier reputation in the industry. His mastery of digital networking and human psychology has helped him create authentic connections and achieve significant business results. He leads both professional and business life with one guiding philosophy: "Leave everyone you meeting better than you found them." Balboa Press Australia is a division of Hay House, Inc., a leading provider in publishing products that specialise in self-help and the mind, body and spirit genre. Through an alliance with the worldwide self-publishing leader Author Solutions, LLC, authors benefit from the leadership of Hay House Publishing and the speed-to-market advantages of the Author Solutions self-publishing model. For more information or to start publishing today, visit or call 1-800-844-925. Media Contact Marketing Services, BalboaPressAU, 1-800-844-925, pressreleases@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE BalboaPressAU Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
7 hours ago
- General
- Yahoo
Complimenting your partner could actually be harmful, expert warns — two things you should never say
Compliments can certainly go a long way in making someone feel special and loved. While you might think everyone loves a little flattery, one expert warns that some compliments may have unintended negative impacts on romantic relationships. Psychologist Dr. Mark Travers explained in Psychology Today that sometimes what we say to thank our loved ones for their supportive behavior may be altering it. 'Compliments can be disarming. They make us feel chosen and understood in ways that other words rarely do,' the psychologist explained. 'But sometimes, the praise that feels the most flattering is also the praise that teaches us to edit ourselves.' Over time, words intended to flatter someone can actually nudge a person to perform, conform, or shrink themselves to stay liked and continue to receive praise. Consider the compliment: 'How are you always so calm?' If your partner grew up playing the peacekeeper in chaotic situations, this compliment might feel like overdue recognition. Yet, it can also come across as a reward for their silence. 'When emotional suppression is praised in adult relationships, it reinforces the message that your worth lies in being agreeable and low-maintenance,' Travers said. This specific type of praise given to your partner could cause them to feel that they must remain calm — even when they're not. They may feel encouraged to keep that mask on, even at the cost of their true feelings. Another example is telling your partner: 'You're the only person I can talk to.' This may sound like deep trust, but it could signal emotional dependency rather than intimacy. People actually experience better mental health when they have multiple people they can turn to to process their emotional needs, each filling different roles—venting, calming or cheering. 'This diversity in emotional support leads to greater well-being, because no single relationship is overloaded with the task of holding it all,' Travers explained to the outlet. While these two compliments should stay out of your relationship, there are a few key phrases Amy Morin, a psychotherapist and author of '13 Things Mentally Strong Couples Don't Do, advises people to implement into their romantic vocabulary. 'If you and your partner regularly use these phrases, it's a sign that you're already a mentally strong couple,' Morin told CNBC Make It. 'And if you don't yet, you can start implementing them and find that you'll grow stronger both individually and as a unit.' Saying to your romantic partner, 'I'm going to tell you something that may be upsetting to hear' is one of them. 'Acknowledging your mistakes and being honest about your needs can help you grow stronger together,' Morin said. Another is, 'I'm sorry for the part I've played in this.' 'When you take responsibility for your share, you increase the chances that your partner will accept responsibility for theirs, too,' Morin said. 'Then you can both put your energy into developing a solution, rather than getting stuck pointing fingers and arguing about who caused the problem.' Lastly, 'Let's find a solution' is another important sentence to say when your partner is struggling with something. 'While some problems are ultimately in your partner's hands, like an issue they're having with their boss, offering to work together shows that you're invested in helping them make the best decision for themselves,' Morin explained. Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
16 hours ago
- General
- Yahoo
14 Ways To Spot A Sociopath In Your Life
Spotting a sociopath in your life can be a daunting task. These people often blend into social settings seamlessly, making it challenging to identify their true nature. While it's not your job to diagnose someone, knowing specific traits can help you maintain healthy boundaries and protect yourself. Here are 14 ways to spot a sociopath, providing insights to navigate these tricky waters with confidence. 1. They Exude Superficial Charm Sociopaths are often incredibly charming, making a memorable first impression. Their charisma can be captivating, drawing you in before you know it. However, this charm often feels too slick, like a well-rehearsed play. Dr. Martha Stout, in her book "The Sociopath Next Door," notes that this charm can quickly dissolve once they achieve what they want from you. Watch for inconsistencies between their smooth exterior and their actions over time. Their charm can be used to manipulate and control those around them. It's important to distinguish genuine friendliness from this superficial allure. If you notice someone is always the life of the party but leaves a trail of discomfort or confusion, it might be a red flag. They can have a knack for making people feel special, only to vanish when their needs are met. Understanding this behavior can help you see past the facade. 2. They Feed Off People Like Parasites Sociopaths often lead a parasitic lifestyle, relying on others to meet their needs. They might manipulate friends, family, or partners to support them financially or emotionally. This dependency can be disguised as charm or helplessness, making it difficult to spot initially. Over time, their reliance becomes more apparent, creating an imbalanced relationship. If someone consistently takes without giving back, it might be a cause for concern. Their parasitic tendencies can strain relationships, leaving you feeling used and undervalued. This behavior stems from a sense of entitlement, where they believe others should serve their needs. They might exploit your generosity or kindness, draining your resources over time. This dynamic can be emotionally taxing, affecting your self-esteem and well-being. Recognizing this pattern allows you to set boundaries and protect your interests. 3. They Tend To Be Pathological Liars Sociopaths often lie with ease and frequency. These lies may range from small fabrications to elaborate deceptions. Dr. Robert Hare, an expert on psychopathy, explains that sociopaths lie not just out of necessity but because they find it enjoyable. It's not just about hiding the truth; it's about gaining control and keeping others in a state of confusion. If someone's stories don't add up, it's time to question the narrative. They might twist reality to suit their needs, leaving you questioning your perception. This constant deceit can create a toxic environment where trust erodes over time. You might feel like you're always playing detective, trying to piece together the truth. This behavior can be draining, affecting your mental well-being and relationships. Spotting these patterns early can save you from emotional turmoil. 4. They Engage In Manipulative Behavior Sociopaths are skilled manipulators, often orchestrating situations to their advantage. This manipulation can be subtle, making it hard to pinpoint. They might play the victim or use guilt to sway others. If you find yourself feeling responsible for their problems, take a step back. Assess the situation objectively, and you may notice a pattern of manipulation. Their tactics can be relentless, targeting your emotions and vulnerabilities. They may use flattery or charm as tools of persuasion, clouding your judgment. Over time, you might feel isolated, unsure of who to trust. This isolating effect can be intentional, designed to make you more reliant on them. Recognizing these techniques can help you maintain control over your interactions. 5. They Have A Grandiose Sense of Self Sociopaths often possess an inflated sense of self-worth. They may believe they're smarter or more talented than everyone else. Dr. Scott Lilienfeld, a psychologist specializing in personality disorders, notes that this grandiosity can mask deep-seated insecurities. It's important to recognize when someone consistently elevates themselves above others. This behavior can strain relationships and foster an environment of tension. Their need for admiration can lead to exaggerated stories or achievements. They might take credit for others' work or embellish their successes. This self-centeredness can make meaningful relationships difficult, as they often disregard others' contributions. If someone continually puts themselves on a pedestal, it's crucial to remain grounded in your perception. Understanding this trait can help you manage your expectations. 6. They're Reckless And Impulsive Impulsive behavior is another common trait among sociopaths. They often act without considering the consequences, driven by immediate gratification. This impulsivity can manifest in reckless spending, risky behavior, or sudden changes in plans. Such actions might seem exciting initially but can lead to chaos and instability. If someone in your life consistently acts on impulse, it could be a cause for concern. Their decisions may appear erratic, leaving you in a constant state of uncertainty. Living with or around someone impulsive can be challenging, as their unpredictability affects those around them. They may not learn from past mistakes, repeating destructive patterns. This lack of foresight indicates a deeper issue, impacting their ability to form stable relationships. Recognizing impulsivity can help you anticipate potential issues. 7. They Never Show Signs Of Remorse Sociopaths rarely feel remorse for their actions, even when they've hurt others. This lack of guilt allows them to navigate life without the burden of conscience. A study by Blair et al. published in the National Academy of Sciences highlights how sociopaths often have a reduced ability to process emotional cues related to guilt. This distinguishes them from those who may act selfishly but feel genuine regret. It's crucial to recognize this absence of remorse when assessing someone's behavior. Without guilt, they may repeat harmful actions without hesitation. This can result in a trail of damaged relationships and unresolved conflicts. Their inability to apologize sincerely can be frustrating for those around them. You'll notice that their apologies, if given, often lack depth or sincerity. Awareness of this trait can help you manage your expectations in interactions. 8. They're Immature And Irresponsible A pattern of irresponsibility may mark a sociopath's life. This can manifest in various forms, such as neglecting obligations or failing to honor commitments. They might shirk responsibilities at work, in relationships, or within the community. This behavior often leaves others picking up the pieces, fostering resentment and frustration. If someone consistently avoids accountability, it could be a sign of deeper issues. Their disregard for responsibility can create chaos and instability in their environment. Over time, this behavior erodes trust and damages relationships. They may rely on others to bail them out of difficult situations, often without gratitude. This dependency can become a burden, draining your emotional and physical resources. Recognizing this pattern early can prevent unnecessary stress and hardship. 9. They Can't Control Their Emotions Sociopaths often struggle to maintain control over their emotions and actions. This lack of control can lead to inappropriate outbursts or erratic behavior. They may react impulsively to minor frustrations, unnecessarily escalating situations. Such behavior can be unsettling, creating an unpredictable and tense atmosphere. If someone frequently loses control, it could be indicative of underlying issues. Their emotional volatility can be exhausting for those around them. Over time, you might find yourself walking on eggshells, trying to avoid triggering an outburst. This environment can be detrimental to your mental health and well-being. It's important to recognize when someone can't regulate their behavior effectively. Setting boundaries can help protect your emotional space. 10. They Have A Noticeable Lack Of Empathy A hallmark of sociopathy is a notable lack of empathy. These people struggle to put themselves in others' shoes, often appearing cold or indifferent. They might mimic empathetic responses, but their actions rarely match their words. Pay attention to how they react to others' pain—they may seem disinterested or even amused. This inability to feel or express genuine concern sets them apart. When someone constantly dismisses or minimizes the feelings of others, it can be a sign of deeper issues. This lack of empathy can manifest in relationships, where they prioritize their needs over anyone else's. You may notice them exploiting others without remorse, leaving emotional damage in their wake. Engaging with them can feel like a one-sided affair, where your emotions are undervalued. Recognizing this trait can help you set necessary boundaries. 11. They Lack Any Real Depth Sociopaths often exhibit shallow emotions, lacking depth and complexity. Their emotional responses may feel insincere or exaggerated, as though they're performing a role. This superficiality can make genuine connections difficult, as they struggle to express authentic feelings. You might notice that their emotions seem disconnected from the situation at hand. This shallowness can be unsettling, leaving you questioning their sincerity. Their inability to experience deep emotions can affect relationships, making them feel transactional or one-sided. They might mimic emotions to fit in, but these displays often feel hollow. Over time, you may find their emotional range limited, lacking the nuances of genuine human experience. This superficiality can create a sense of distance and alienation. Recognizing this trait can help you manage your expectations in interactions. 12. They Probably Had Early Behavioral Problems Many sociopaths display behavioral problems early in life. These issues may include aggression, deceit, or defiance, often continuing into adulthood. If someone in your life had a troubled childhood with persistent behavioral issues, it might be worth noting. However, not everyone with a difficult past becomes a sociopath, so it's essential to consider the broader context. Early warning signs can provide valuable insights into their later behavior. These early issues often set the stage for more significant problems later in life. While rebellious behavior doesn't always indicate sociopathy, persistent patterns can be telling. As they grow older, these traits may evolve into more sophisticated manipulations or deceptions. Understanding the roots of their behavior can help you navigate your relationship with them. Early intervention and awareness are crucial in managing these dynamics. 13. They Get Bored Really Easily Sociopaths frequently experience boredom, requiring constant stimulation to feel engaged. They might seek out risky or adventurous activities to fill the void. This need for excitement often drives impulsive decisions, contributing to chaotic lifestyles. If someone in your life constantly seeks thrills or changes, it could be a sign of underlying issues. This restlessness can create an unstable environment, affecting those around them. Their boredom can lead to destructive behavior, as they prioritize excitement over stability. This pursuit of novelty often disregards the consequences, leaving a trail of chaos. Over time, their actions can strain relationships, as others struggle to keep up with their ever-changing desires. It's important to recognize this pattern and establish boundaries to protect your well-being. Understanding their need for stimulation can help you anticipate potential challenges. 14. They Don't Have Any Long-Term Goals Sociopaths often struggle to set or achieve long-term goals. Their focus tends to be on immediate gratification, lacking foresight or planning. You might notice that they frequently change jobs, relationships, or interests, never settling down. This instability can create a sense of chaos, affecting both their lives and those around them. If someone consistently lacks direction, it might be indicative of deeper issues. Their inability to commit to long-term plans can hinder personal growth and development. This behavior often stems from a lack of responsibility or foresight. Relationships with such people can be challenging, as their unpredictability creates uncertainty. Over time, this pattern can lead to frustration and disappointment for both parties. Recognizing this tendency can help you manage expectations and navigate your relationship effectively. Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
18 hours ago
- Lifestyle
- Yahoo
What birth order can reveal about your dating style and love language
How your birth order influences your love life—and the best gifts for your romantic style If you've ever felt like your romantic habits were hardwired, you might be onto something. Beyond zodiac signs and attachment styles, birth order psychology offers surprising insights into how we love, communicate, and connect with others. Whether you're the structured oldest child, the peacekeeping middle, the carefree youngest, or the independent only child, your birth order plays a key role in shaping your dating style and love language. In this guide, we'll break down each type—and even recommend the perfect product to help you connect more deeply in your relationships. Oldest Child: The Loyal Caregiver Dating Style: Responsible, dependable, and thoughtfulLove Language: Acts of Service and Words of Affirmation Oldest children grow up with the most responsibility, often acting as mini-parents in their households. This often translates into romantic relationships where they take the lead, offer structure, and strive to make their partner's life easier. They're excellent planners, but may struggle to express their deeper emotional needs. They thrive when they feel appreciated—and need to remember they deserve nurturing too. Dating Tip for Firstborns: Let go of the pressure to be perfect. You don't need to 'earn' love—it's okay to receive. Product Picks for the Oldest Child:The Five Minute Journal – A daily gratitude journal to help firstborns slow down, connect with their emotions, and reflect on both giving and receiving love. Couples Massage Oil Set – Encourages slowing down and shared acts of service. Middle Child: The Harmonizer Dating Style: Empathetic, diplomatic, and relationship-focusedLove Language: Quality Time and Physical Touch Middle children often fly under the radar growing up, which makes them skilled negotiators and intuitive partners. They prioritize emotional connection, often acting as the glue in relationships—but they may also suppress their own needs to keep the peace. They value quality time over flashy gifts and crave closeness through consistent presence and physical affection. Dating Tip for Middle Children: Speak up. Your needs matter just as much as your partner's. Product Picks for the Middle Child:Set Boundaries, Find Peace by Nedra Glover Tawwab – A must-read for middle kids who want to balance empathy with assertiveness. Date Night In a Jar – 200 pre-planned nights of connection that take the pressure off planning and spark meaningful moments. Youngest Child: The Flirty Free Spirit Dating Style: Playful, affectionate, spontaneousLove Language: Physical Touch and Receiving Gifts Youngest siblings often grow up with less pressure and more play, which makes them charming, emotionally expressive, and full of life in romantic relationships. They know how to keep things light—but sometimes struggle with follow-through or deeper emotional responsibility. They love being surprised and are drawn to sensory experiences that bring joy and connection. Dating Tip for Youngest Children: Emotional intimacy can be just as exciting as physical connection. Go deeper—your heart has more to give than just laughs. Product Pick for the Younget Child:Personalized Keepsake Box and Candle– Think a candle to set the mood and a personalized box to keep your love letters Love Lingual Card Game – Perfect for deepening emotional connection in a fun, flirty way. Only Child: The Independent Romantic Dating Style: Loyal, intentional, and emotionally self-sufficientLove Language: Words of Affirmation and Acts of Service Only children are often mature beyond their years, raised in adult-centric environments. This gives them strong self-awareness and a deep capacity for love—but they may also need more alone time than most, and sometimes resist emotional dependency. They show love through thoughtful gestures and desire verbal clarity and consistency in return. Dating Tip for Only Children: Let your partner in. Intimacy is a two-way street—you don't have to do everything on your own. Product Picks for the Only Child: Attached by Amir Levine & Rachel Heller – A powerful guide to understanding how independence and intimacy can co-exist. Weighted Blanket – A cozy, calming product that supports their love of alone time and relaxation. Bonus Section: Love Language Product Pairings by Birth Order Oldest Acts of Service + Words of Affirmation A couples goal planner or a handwritten love letter set Middle Quality Time + Physical Touch A weekend getaway or massage candles Youngest Physical Touch + Receiving Gifts Custom jewelry or a couple's game night bundle Only Child Words of Affirmation + Acts of Service Luxury stationery for love notes or a subscription meal delivery box Birth Order Might Be the Secret to Better Love Birth order isn't a fixed personality label, but it is a powerful lens into your emotional blueprint. It can reveal why you date the way you do, what you expect from love, and how you naturally express affection. By understanding your own birth order—and your partner's—you can build stronger, more fulfilling relationships. And when in doubt, don't just tell your partner you love them—show it in the way that speaks to their birth order and love language. Sometimes, the perfect gift or shared moment can say what words can't.
Yahoo
19 hours ago
- General
- Yahoo
If You Have Imposter Syndrome, You Likely Live With These 9 'Unspoken Fears,' a Psychologist Says
If You Have Imposter Syndrome, You Likely Live With These 9 'Unspoken Fears,' a Psychologist Says originally appeared on Parade. Generally speaking, we try to stay away from "imposters," whether they're trying to manipulate us into handing over a bank account number or our heart (AKA a two-timing romantic partner). However, your inner critic may unfairly label you an imposter every time you pursue a goal. If you struggle to mute that internal monologue and start believing your critic has a point, you may have imposter syndrome."Imposter syndrome is the feeling or belief that we are not entitled to say something, do something, or be a particular way despite evidence to the contrary," explains Dr. Craig Kain, Ph.D., a licensed psychologist. "Clients express imposter syndrome when they tell me, 'I know I can do this—I am already doing it—but I still feel like a fake.'"Clearly, advice to "fake-it-'til-you-make-it" can only go so far, especially if you experience this imposter phenomenon. Dr. Kain warns that this self-deception can cause anxiety levels that become so paralyzing that you cannot find joy in your accomplishments and life. Working on your unspoken fears is useful. However, first, you need to recognize them. Here, Dr. Kain shares nine common, unspoken fears associated with imposter syndrome, as well as strategies for 9 Unspoken Fears in People Living With Imposter Syndrome, a Psychologist Says 1. Sounding ignorant Dr. Kain shares that people with this fear will often ask themselves, 'What if someone asks me something about a topic I don't know about and I have nothing to say?'"Because we falsely believe we should know everything about everything, we fear someone putting us on the spot," he warns. "This fear of humiliation is a very common one throughout people's lives."Related: 2. Revealing a working-class background Society often views wealth as something best measured in dollars and cents, which can make people with blue-collar roots feel especially self-conscious. For instance, Dr. Kain says that people may wonder whether they'll get judged for using the "wrong fork" at a lavish dinner party or wedding."This fear of social humiliation can be strong even after years of education and a solid white-collar career," he explains. "It can be extremely anxiety-provoking in situations where working-class people are stereotyped and looked down upon." 3. Pronouncing something incorrectly Dr. Kain notes that people with developmental differences are often prone to this unspoken fear of imposter syndrome."Because assisted technology is readily available and extremely useful, many of my clients have relied on audiobooks to get them through their education," he says. "They often go on to be highly successful despite struggling to read quickly or fluently. I have clients who have avoided jobs and careers because of the fear of being perceived as 'stupid' because they struggle reading aloud."Dr. Kain adds that people who aren't fluent in English or don't consider it their primary language are also at a higher risk of this one."If they have a strong need to blend in and not draw attention to themselves, if they have worked hard to eliminate an accent, the fear of 'giving themselves away' by mispronouncing a word can be extremely paralyzing," he 4. Difficult questions You've earned your way to expert status, yet you find yourself chronically asking yourself, "What if someone asks me a question I cannot answer? Won't they know I'm not the expert?" Dr. Kain experienced this one himself. When he started teaching, he wondered what would happen if a student asked him something he couldn't answer."I'm not really sure what caused my belief that I had to know everything about the topic I taught—perhaps it was because I was still under the naive impression my professors knew everything about their areas of expertise—but I worried I'd be seen as an imposter if I didn't," he says. "I'm slightly embarrassed to say it took me a while to realize students are perfectly fine waiting a week for an answer so that I could do some research." 5. Specific questions about your history The idea of answering questions you do know the answer to—such as about your education—may also trigger anxiety if you have imposter syndrome."This is common in people who come from working-class families or who didn't go to upper-tier schools," Dr. Kain says. "The idea that our family of origin's social status defines us as adults or that the school we went to somehow speaks to our intelligence later in life fuels this fear of humiliation and feelings of being an imposter."Related: 6. Having something to prove You may ask yourself, 'What if someone says, 'Prove it,' to me and I can't?' Dr. Kain notes that he often hears competitive athletes release this unspoken fear in therapy with him, especially when they're highly ranked due to stellar past performance."The fear that their success was due to luck and not hard work and skill can increase typical pre-game jitters to an unbearable intensity, all centered around an anticipated humiliation of being called a fake or imposter if they underperform," he may also experience this fear if you received high praise for a work presentation you gave to your company at an all-hands meeting and have since been tasked with speaking to the board of directors. 7. Sounding too intelligent or nerdy Having "smarts" is generally considered a positive trait. However, imposter syndrome has a funny way of turning it into a negative. Dr. Kain says people with this unspoken fear are typically scared that they'll say or do something that tips their friends off that they aren't that "cool." 'While they may, at times, feel like they belong, it is offset by feeling like they're an imposter," he adds that he primarily sees this fear in teens. However, it can strike people of any age and trigger emotional and psychological 8. Exposing a lack of experience People with imposter syndrome often live in fear that they'll say or do something that gets them tagged as "inexperienced.""This common manifestation of imposter syndrome often arises when we have recently mastered a new subject, task or skill, undermining our hard work and effort and discounting our accomplishments," Dr. Kain you have this unspoken fear, you might ask yourself, 'What if I don't know how to do something others think I'm supposed to know how to do?' 9. Forgetting everything during a presentation and performance Lights, what? People with imposter syndrome can experience stage fright long before the curtains go up."This version of the imposter syndrome capitalizes on catastrophic thinking and the notion that everyone in an audience would know and care if we messed up," Dr. Kain likes to remind clients that the audience is almost always rooting for them, not against them, and will understand if they lose their place."Most people in an audience are happy they are in their chair and not on stage presenting or performing," he 4 Tips for Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 1. Stop comparing They say comparison is the thief of joy. However, it's rocket fuel for imposter syndrome."So much of imposter syndrome is based on social comparison," Dr. Kain says. "We mentally paint a picture of how someone will react to us based on a limited amount of information we may have about them."He reminds clients that few people share their inner workings—including any unspoken fears of imposter syndrome they have."Having worked as a therapist for many years, I can assure you that most people do not have it nearly as together on the inside as they may want you to think," he explains. "Hardly anybody has it all figured out, and nearly nobody feels confident all the time."Related: 2. Remember that even experts make mistakes This tip is handy if you're afraid to say or do something that gets you labeled as inexperienced or if you don't know the answer to a question."Imposter syndrome lives in the fear of being 'found out, 'slipping up' and making mistakes," Dr. Kain shares. "It is helpful to remember that making a mistake does not make you an imposter. It simply makes you a human being." 3. Talk to someone Transform your unspoken imposter syndrome fear by saying it out loud. Dr. Kain says you may be surprised by what you hear in return."Let someone else know you feel like an imposter," he suggests. "It's rare to find someone who can honestly say they never felt that way themselves. If you do find someone who tells you they have never experienced imposter syndrome, there is a high likelihood they've accomplished this by avoiding challenging situations."Related: 4. Work on actual gaps No one is perfect. If the voice in your head has a point, there's no shame in working on a gap in knowledge or experience. In fact, it's a sign of maturity and can lead to growth."If you find that you truly are lacking in some area, figure out a way to make up the missing skills, information or experiences," Dr. Kain says. "Do what you can to be more comfortable in your own skin."Sign up for a course, volunteer your time, find a mentor—you and those around you will benefit from your humility and grit. Up Next:Source: Dr. Craig Kain, Ph.D., a licensed psychologist If You Have Imposter Syndrome, You Likely Live With These 9 'Unspoken Fears,' a Psychologist Says first appeared on Parade on Jul 22, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jul 22, 2025, where it first appeared. Solve the daily Crossword
