Comment by Joe Clark on "How did you deal (or are dealing) with Impostor Syndrome?"

CommentHow did you deal (or are dealing) with Impostor Syndrome?

Joe Clark

Full-stack developer specializing in healthcare IT

Jul 29, 2017

Since I do not have a degree and am self-taught, I dealt with this for many years. What got me out of it was another developer. When I asked him his opinion on my approach to a problem, he said, "You're a senior developer here at <company>. Do what you think is best." It was a defining moment for me. Ever since then, the feeling of being an imposter has been gone.

Sunny Singh

Creating Content & Code

Jul 29, 2017

I think it's really interesting to find how common it is for those that are even senior developers to consider themselves imposters. Is there an overarching problem in emphasis on having a college degree? I personally believe self-taught developers are typically more qualified, but that doesn't seem to be a norm when it comes to companies hiring.

Joe Clark

Full-stack developer specializing in healthcare IT

Jul 29, 2017

Those who are self-taught often feel like they're "winging it". They don't have solid training to fall back on. They're always wondering: am I doing it the RIGHT way? Sure, my way works, but is it the PROPER way. Is there a BETTER way? When will I be discovered that I'm not just as good as my resume says?

We are our own worst enemies.

I agree that, for the most part, self-taught developers have an advantage, not because they're more qualified, but because they have more of a passion, more of a curiosity, and are usually able to work through problems outside the confines of being book-learned.

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