Yoda eyes me up and proclaims, “The force is strong in this one.” The goofy green character is not comparing me to Skywalker. He’s referring to my imposter syndrome.

The National Institute of Health defines imposter syndrome as “a behavioral health phenomenon described as self-doubt of intellect, skills, or accomplishments[.]” This demon surfaces when I post online or write an appellate brief and think,

No one will want to read this.

The work of those others writers and attorneys is much better than mine.

My talent is mediocre, not magnificent.

I effort to challenge this self-doubt and fear by acknowledging, not dwelling on, the thoughts. Thus, I compose and post on my blog, irrespective of whether anyone reads the articles. In several weeks, along with a talented attorney, I’ll co-lead a Continuing Legal Education session without worrying about how many of my peers will attend.

Thanks, Yoda, but I already possess the tools to defeat this foe. I need not be a Jedi with a lightsaber to conquer imposter syndrome.