Visualize the first item you reach for upon waking up. I'll give you a hint; this object is normally touched before the crust is out of your eyes.
If you are anything like me, you have created the annoyingly addictive habit of grabbing the cell phone even before a waking thought. At this point, it has etched itself into our morning routine and it has no intention of freeing us from its grasp. My fingers usually glide to social platforms and the weather application in the morning. This would mean from the moment our brains begin to consciously function, we are inputting images from whatever social media platform we choose. I am not here to tell you to kick your social media habit and totally give it up, because...no. However, what I do believe is noteworthy, is the effect of how social media affects how you practice and more importantly, how you see yourself while practicing.
The term Imposter Syndrome was coined in 1978 by Pauline R. Clance and Suzanne A. Imes. These two researchers surveyed over 100 intellectual and professionally recognized women. When these women were interviewed about how they came to their success, most of them attributed it to luck and others had vocalized overestimating their own capabilities. As a woman, specifically, as a woman of color, I can ultimately relate to this notion. Why is it so easy to discount our own accomplishments? Why is negative self-talk winning?
This phenomenon is not just limited to women; although it is more common amongst women, it can happen to anyone. In 1978 these women were primarily battling gender stereotypes, cultural norms, and attribution styles. In the 21st century, we have added one of the single most influential technological advancements of this century, social media.
Over 4.74 billion people across the world use social media and over 75% of the world's population aged 13+ use social media. There’s no way around it, social media is here to stay. You should think to yourself, “How do these numbers affect me and how I feel about the way I practice?” As practitioners, most of us already have a very competitive and/or Type A personality. Although this has helped us get to where we are today, it can have some negative effects when we are constantly scrolling through our favorite dental influencers page. I have caught myself thinking after looking through social media, “I need to do more full mouth cases!” or “OMG, they are already placing their own implants!” or my favorite, “Wow! They opened up their own practice already!”. Although these thoughts can be motivational, obsessing over what we have not done or comparing ourselves to others, only leaves us feeling as though we are lacking and slacking.
Instead of looking at these wonderful accomplishments of your peers with angst, let's see how we can reverse that negative talk into positive action.
Here are some helpful tips in taking back your thoughts and flipping the script. Start with questioning your thoughts and figuring where they are coming from, this may be an opportunity to assess your abilities and map out ways to sharpen skills. Share your feelings with a trusted peer/partner/colleague, most likely you are not alone. When all else fails, limit your social media usage and use the extra time to accomplish small tasks.
You can regain control of how you see yourself and repurpose your purpose. Although we have an alliance between co-workers, friends, and family members, you are the only person in control of your inputs and outcomes; don't allow social media to influence you and devalue your accomplishments. Continue to build yourself and take care of your mental health. You are the best when you are kind to yourself.