DS27 First-week reflection and imposter syndrome

by Viktoriia Slaikovskaia

The first week went super fast like it was just one big day for me. We all come from different backgrounds and have a different experiences. Sometimes look at everyone and realise how cool they are in things they are doing. I am still impressed by all stories and abilities of people in TIL and feel lucky to have a fantastic cohort.

In this post, I want to talk about imposter syndrome and what to do if you feel low about your abilities.
It begins when you start to concentrate not on your progress but on comparing your work to others. I heard millions of times not to do that, but sometimes it's happening, and it isn't delightful. But the good thing is it is in your power to change that.

1) Did you hear not to compare your work to others? They mean it 😁
Every dashboard/calculation are unique. There is no "best" way to do that. You'll find your style and way to do your job eventually.

2) Think your dashboard not good? Nobody is expecting you to know everything and do "perfect" dashboards. It has to be "good enough".
Ask for feedback if you are not sure.
And remember: you are doing your best at the moment. If you could do better, you would. Now it's your "best", it will change through time. Good practice to look at your progress.

3) Do you think you understand everything so slow? Well, we all have different learn peace, and it means somebody can get everything intuitively, but someone needs more time and explanation. It's okay, especially if it's your first time using Alteryx/Tableau Prep/etc. Ask to explain again till you get it.

4) Afraid to make mistakes? Mistakes - a better way to understand a topic. I encourage you to make them. Play with software around, try other tactics, be explorative.

5) Got stuck? Ask for help. Everyone in TIL would be happy to help if they are not busy. Get your notebook and go around the floors.

6) Think that everything went south? Take a break, grab a cup of tea, after a while, try again. And ask for help.

7) Struggling? Ask other cohorts how they get through the learning process. Go to HR, and they can give you support, but first, you need to be proactive.

We are all different, and this is our power. The cool thing is that we can help each other to improve.

Video for fun: YouTube link.


Photo by Mulyadi on Unsplash

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Viktoriia Slaikovskaia