Navigating Imposter Syndrome in Spiritual Work
4 mins read

Navigating Imposter Syndrome in Spiritual Work

Rev. Colleen Irwin0Tagged , , , , , , , ,

Recognizing Imposter Syndrome in Mediumship Development

Imposter syndrome, a nagging feeling of inadequacy despite evidence of skill, often rears its head during the development of mediumship abilities. Mediumship is a journey of growth, discovery, and connection, but it can also be one of self-doubt. For many mediums, this feeling comes from an unexpected place—our ego.

The Role of Ego in Imposter Syndrome

As you develop your mediumship, it’s natural to want to be good at it, to feel like you’re making progress. However, when ego enters the picture, it can create unrealistic expectations, leading to comparison with others and doubt about your own abilities. The moment you start questioning why you’re on this path or doubting your connection with Spirit, it’s likely your ego is getting in the way. You may even start thinking, “Am I good enough to be doing this?” or “What if I can’t communicate as well as others?”

When I was first starting out, imposter syndrome was a constant companion. I questioned every message I received, over analyzed every detail, and wondered if I had what it takes. Second-guessing myself to the point of overthinking, and it made me feel like I wasn’t progressing. I wanted to be good, but I got stuck in my own head.

Common Triggers of Imposter Syndrome

Imposter syndrome in mediumship development can be triggered by a number of things:

    • Comparing yourself to others: It’s easy to look at someone else’s abilities and feel like you’re falling short.
    • Fear of being wrong: Mediums often feel pressure to get everything right, which adds to the self-doubt.
    • Lack of validation: If you don’t receive immediate validation from sitters or from Spirit, it can make you question your abilities.

But here’s the truth: mediumship isn’t about being better than anyone else. It’s about being the best version of yourself, every day. It’s about growing your connection with Spirit, not proving that you’re the best.

Ego vs. Growth: How to Distinguish the Two

One of the hardest things to do in mediumship is to separate natural development from ego-driven self-doubt. It isn’t always easy to recognize when your ego is running the show, but there are signs. If you’re constantly worried about getting messages 100% right or upset over small details you missed, you might be letting your ego overshadow your growth. Remember, mediumship is a learning process. Mistakes are part of the journey.

The key to overcoming imposter syndrome is focusing on the process rather than the outcome. Growth takes time, and it’s essential to trust that each step forward is progress, no matter how small it seems.

Recognizing the Signs of Imposter Syndrome

If you find yourself:

    • Getting upset about missing small details in a reading
    • Feeling like you’re not good enough, despite positive feedback
    • Constantly comparing yourself to other mediums, healers, or speakers

Imposter syndrome isn’t limited to mediumship. It can also show up in healing work, serving the platform at Spiritualist churches, or even when giving inspirational talks. Whether you’re delivering messages, offering healing, or sharing wisdom through speaking, self-doubt can sneak in and undermine your confidence.

While imposter syndrome commonly shows up for those who are new to this work, it can also affect seasoned professionals. No matter how much experience you have, these feelings can still creep in from time to time. The important thing to remember is that this journey isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress.

Final Thoughts

Imposter syndrome can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to hold you back. It often takes the joy out of serving Spirit, turning what should be a fulfilling and sacred experience into a source of stress and self-doubt. By recognizing the role of ego, focusing on your personal growth, and understanding that mediumship is a journey, not a race, you can move past those feelings of inadequacy.

Trust in the messages you receive, trust in your connection with Spirit, and most importantly, trust in yourself. When you do, you’ll rediscover the joy and purpose of serving Spirit.

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Reverend Colleen Irwin is a Wife, Healer, Psychic Medium, Mentor, Author, and Public Speaker from Rochester, New York, with over 30 years of business experience, including her work as a real estate broker. Colleen’s background in training REALTORS honed her skills in conflict resolution, marketing strategies, and analytical as well as presentation skills, which she now applies to her spiritual education and coaching. Colleen teaches, lectures, and serves Spirit, sharing her lifelong connection with the spiritual world, as captured in her book 'Discovering Your Stream.' She has studied with renowned mediums John White and Lisa Williams and was mentored by Reverend Jack Rudy. Ordained in the Order of Melchizedek by Reverend Dan Chesboro, Colleen is also a PREVIVOR who educates others about the BRCA genetic mutation and taking control of their health. Her mission is to empower women through life’s significant changes—whether it be a career shift, parental care giving, health crises, relationship transformations, or spiritual awakenings. Through spiritual education, inspirational talks, and coaching, Colleen offers guidance and hope, helping women embrace their new purpose.
Website http://www.TalkwithColleen.com

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