b'ARTICLESO, YOU FEEL LIKEAN IMPOSTER?By Dr. Katie Ford BVSc(Hons) CertAVP(SAM) PGCert MSc(Wellbeing) MRCVSAs a veterinary surgeon turned coach, Ive had hundreds of conversations with members of the veterinary team who feel like imposters. If youre one of them, youre not alone; I have been there too. The imposter phenomenon, first noted in the 1970s, affects an estimated 60-85% of professionals, and the veterinary community is no exception.Before we dive deeper, lets pause for a moment. If youre feeling like an imposter right now, I want you to know its okay. Accept that feeling without judgement. Often, theres a part of us thats scared we truly are an imposter. Its alright to acknowledge that fear. Accepting these feelings doesnt mean theyre true, but it allows us to be gentle with ourselves. Take a deep breath. Youve got this. Keep reading.The imposter phenomenon is that nagging feeling that youre a fraud, despite evidence to the contrary. You worry youll be found out, even though youre a competent and accomplished veterinary professional. Lets start by ditching the term syndrome. While technically correct, it implies a fault or condition. The imposter phenomenon (as it was first termed) is an experience, not a personal flaw. Its so common that most veterinary professionals you admire have likely felt it at some point.22www.inspiredvet.co.uk'