What do you do if you're struggling with imposter syndrome as a new leader?

I was totally here once.. I didn't know what to do with my feelings. I thought to myself, "what if they find out I don't know anything...what if I don't have the answers...what if they make fun of me...what if who I am is not enough...etc?" I felt so inadequate. I sought help from a therapist. But more importantly for me, I sought help from my Heavenly Father. He had to remind me of what He called me to. I was reminded that Moses, Abraham, Gideon, Jeremiah, and others we've read about in the good book had similar feelings. If you have truly been called to leadership and/or a position these feelings will certainly humble you. That is not a bad thing. You are equipped. You are enough. More importantly, your strength comes from above!!

I grapple with this every time I change roles. A supportive network of friends and mentors who can reaffirm your strengths and abilities is invaluable. Focus on setting up short-term realistic goals and achieving them, which can give a boost of confidence as well.

I totally second-guessed myself in my leadership role. There were the questions of whether I was good enough. I knew I was a leader when it came to indirect leadership, but what about direct leadership? Then there was the learning curve. My peers had been leaders for years or were previously my leaders. Or how about that I was now leading my previous peers? There was so much to take in. And what would be my leadership style? Or thinking about what I didn't want to be—a micromanager. My best leaders were coaches and servants. So I started taking classes, praying, and sought a mentor. Eventually, I realized yes, it wouldn't be without challenges, but God had prepared me for this. I am ready. I am good enough. I did not need to fear success.

Everyone has bouts of "Imposter Syndrome" throughout different stages of their lives. Most people will not want to admit they have doubts about their goals or objectives. Previously, societal norms reinforced antiquated and myopic archetypes that viewed doubts and insecurities as weaknesses. "Acceptance and Self-awareness are Symbiotic Companions with Success." We are all blessed with innate gifts and creativity meant to be shared with the world. It took me [four years] to finally decide to write my Best-Selling book, "The Ultimate Retail Manual: Strategies for Retailers to Thrive & Succeed in the Digital World." Now, my book is resonating with readers in 25 countries around the world.

If feeling like we're not good enough as a new leader, that's called imposter syndrome, and lots of people go through it. Remember that it's normal to feel unsure sometimes, especially when we're doing something new. Try to focus on our strengths and the things we're good at, and remind ourself that we were chosen for this role for a reason. Talk to someone we trust, like a mentor or a friend, about how you're feeling. They can help see things from a different perspective and give us encouragement. Also, don't be afraid to ask for help or advice when we need it. Everyone learns as they go, and we'll get better with time and practice. Believe in ourself and own abilities, and know that it's okay to make mistakes along the way.

Let's flip this point around. In a group setting, stepping into your leadership does not mean you need to have all the answers or even have clarity on the problem you are trying to solve together. You may hold back as an imposter in these situation because of this but sometimes, being the one that helps others have the right conversation is leadership in itself. Helping others brainstorm together is a powerful leadership attribute. You are not an imposter if you do not have the answer yourself.

Ask for help and guidance - it is not weakness or a show that you cannot handle the role. When going through new situations or expectations or you learn from those that have been through it. Go to your mentor, or seek out one. Get their perspectives. Employ a coach to help develop focus areas to grow and become more confident in your role

Don't try to tackle imposter syndrome alone. Reach out to mentors, colleagues, or a trusted support network for guidance and encouragement. Share your struggles openly and vulnerably, and you'll likely find that many others have experienced similar feelings. Surround yourself with positive influences who can provide reassurance, perspective, and advice. Seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Seek a mentor who has more experience in leadership roles. A mentor can provide guidance, share their own experiences with overcoming self-doubt, and offer practical advice for navigating leadership challenges. Consider working with a leadership coach who can help you develop your leadership skills, build confidence, and offer strategies to manage feelings of imposter syndrome.

If imposter syndrome strikes as a new leader, seek support. Confide in mentors, coaches, or colleagues who understand. Share your experiences and feelings openly. Receive guidance on overcoming self-doubt and building confidence. Remember, seeking support is a strength, not a weakness. With encouragement and guidance, you can navigate imposter syndrome and thrive in your leadership journey.

Keys to overcoming Imposter Syndrome: *PAUSE, take a breath & recognize the words you are saying to yourself in the moment. Don't that negative self talk go on in an unchallenged loop. *EVALUATE the narrative with objectivity. Would you be saying the same negative things to peer or friend in this situation? *GET support. Talk to a mentor or thought partner who can help you be more objective in your self assessment. *CHOOSE different self talk. Add "yet" to the end of those absolute phrases....as in "I don't know how to do this YET". *ACKNOWLEDGE the work you are doing to continue to learn, grow & feel more confident. *DIVE in anyway. If you are waiting to feel totally competent you will miss out on the best growth opportunities!

Imposter syndrome often stems from negative self-talk and distorted perceptions of our abilities. Challenge those thoughts by reframing them in a more positive and realistic light. Focus on your accomplishments, skills, and strengths, rather than dwelling on perceived shortcomings. Practice self-compassion and remind yourself that it's okay to make mistakes and learn along the way. By reframing your thoughts, you'll build resilience and confidence as a new leader.

Damn! I remember struggling with this when I was a newbie and one statement that changed my life was this one - Why Not me? I'd think,Alice why did they choose you for this role and would immediately ask myself ,'Why not me?' I'm qualified and capable and whatever I don't know,I'm open to learning. I had no clue that what I was doing was reframing - now I got so used to it ,it comes naturally. Try this,it's a game changer - tried and tested.

The next level of elevation will usually feel like imposter syndrome. You have probably felt this way plenty of times in your life in the past. During those times, you took a breath, took one step at a time, listened and observed, asked questions as needed, and then found your niche. Once you excelled at that, you sought out your next opportunity for growth. Being a new leader is starting something new, as you have done in the past. Adjust your mindset to curiosity and a desire to learn, build relationships, and have an impact.

Many leaders need to know that they are doing a good job. We can not always relay on others to let us know that we do. Defining own expectations and ways to measure own achievements can be a helpful instrument in this situation.

Setting realistic and achievable goals is essential for combating imposter syndrome. Break down larger objectives into smaller, manageable tasks that you can tackle one step at a time. Set yourself up for success by setting clear expectations and timelines for your goals. Celebrate each milestone along the way, no matter how small. By setting achievable goals, you'll build momentum and confidence in your abilities as a new leader.

Set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals that align with your role's expectations and your personal growth aspirations. Break down larger goals into smaller, manageable milestones. Achieving these short-term goals can provide a sense of progress and build confidence.

To combat imposter syndrome as a new leader, set realistic goals. Break tasks into manageable steps, focusing on achievable milestones. Celebrate small victories to build confidence gradually. Avoid comparing yourself to others; instead, measure progress against your own growth. Embrace mistakes as opportunities for learning and improvement. By setting attainable goals, you'll alleviate pressure and foster self-assurance in your leadership journey.

To overcome imposter syndrome as a new leader, reflect on your successes. Recall past achievements and the skills that led to them. Recognize your unique strengths and contributions. Keep a journal to document accomplishments and positive feedback. Remind yourself of your capabilities when doubt arises. By reflecting on success, you reinforce your confidence and reaffirm your competence as a leader.

Take time to reflect on your successes and accomplishments as a new leader. Keep a journal or log of your achievements, no matter how minor they may seem. Reflect on challenges you've overcome and the skills you've developed in the process. Celebrate your progress and growth, and use those successes as reminders of your capabilities. By focusing on your achievements, you'll boost your confidence and quiet that inner critic.

Keep a journal where you document your successes, achievements, and positive feedback received. This can include successful projects, compliments from colleagues, milestones reached, or personal improvements.

Reflecting on success can also be a brain flex. Framing that success as an affirmation, but when you construct that affirmation, lead with the proof. For instance: "I won an industry award in my field last year; therefore, I am an excellent industry leader." Neuroscience reveals that restructuring affirmations to include the specific proof and lead with it instead of leading w/the affirmation, helps our brains to comprehend, understand and accept the affirmation better, especially for self-doubters. And of course, to activate your brain's neuroplasticity, intentionally put plan to repeat it, write it, hear it and read it consistently and repetitively so that you can create new neural pathways in the brain to learn the positive thought.

Imposter syndrome can be particularly challenging for new leaders, but the right approach can overcome it. Reflect on your past successes and accomplishments, reminding yourself of your capabilities and qualifications for the leadership role. Feel free to share your feelings with a mentor, coach, or trusted colleague. They can offer perspective and reassurance, helping you navigate through self-doubt. By recognizing your achievements and seeking support from others, you can combat imposter syndrome and step confidently into your role as a new leader.

The research done on Imposter syndrome was done in the 70s on a small group of people— in some ways it is a useful perspective but the label itself can be a problem. That’s why I made a YouTube video on my Granny Ronna channel about it, because so many resource rich young women, specifically , identify with the phrase “feeling like a fraud” and that label makes self-imposed limitations more powerful. One of many techniques I’ve found helpful is to focus on the goal and not the feeling. If the point is to help one person make progress in one area—that helps everyone and takes the feelings and labels out of the spotlight. Making the other person the hero of our story has magical powers ????

When I talk about leadership, I often talk about the distinction of stepping into your leadership vs holding back. In our lives, we have the chance to become different versions of ourselves. Each time we "upgrade", it's like having this invisible new version of us just ahead of us. We can make the choice to step into this new version of us or hold back and stay where we are at. Each new version is a bit bigger than the previous one with more wisdom, more life experience. When we step into a new version, it can be a bit uncomfortable while we adjust to what it means to be this version of us. Is this new version always better? I would hope so but sometimes it is not. Just know that there is always another just ahead of you. Waiting...

Imposter syndrome has to be taken as a sign that you are being challenged in your role and challenge is a force for good. Once you have acknowledged the reason behind the feeling of being an imposter the fear of being caught out subsidies and you can then focus on the growth that will help you overcome the challenge.

If imposter syndrome significantly impacts your wellbeing or job performance, consider seeking support from a professional coach or therapist who can provide strategies and guidance tailored to your needs.

Firstly it is really important to realise that most of us suffer from imposter syndrome at times, it’s natural and it’s OK. I would argue that it is a sign that you really care about your job and your colleagues. As you grow in the role and you experience the ebb and flow of your first full year, you will grow in confidence. Don’t worry about it too much but treat it as a welcome guest that can help you sharpen your mind.

Remember Imposter Syndrome isn’t a Syndrome - it’s a phenomenon- it is your own thoughts and beliefs, not an actual condition. There are many things already mentioned that can help with this but by looking at and listening to the evidence around you which positively affirms why it is you were promoted - get support of a trusted colleague, coach or mentor to provide coaching style feedback/supervision sessions allowing you space and time to reflect on your own performance and to reframe those imposter thoughts and reflect everyday where you have made a positive impact no matter how small!

In my experience, tackling self-esteem was a pivotal step in overcoming imposter syndrome as a new leader. During my college days, I grappled with uncertainty about my career path, which significantly impacted my self-esteem. It wasn't until I adopted the mantra "I am good enough" that I began to see a shift. This simple yet powerful affirmation became a daily practice, reminding me of my worth and capabilities. By focusing on building my self-esteem, I found the strength to embrace my role with confidence and authenticity.

‘ACT’ is a helpful framework to tackle imposter syndrome especially for new leaders: A - Acknowledge Your Achievements- Regularly create an inventory of successes no matter how small they seem. Recognize the skills, effort, and qualities that led to those successes. -Acknowledgements from mentors and peers can also reinforce your rightful place as a leader, while constructive feedback offers growth opportunities. C - Communicate. Share your successes and struggles from an empowering not self limiting angle. Discussing these experiences can normalize them and provide mutual support to overcome them. T -Train Your Mind. Incorporate daily positive affirmations that focus on your capabilities, leadership qualities, and the value you bring.

If you're grappling with imposter syndrome as a new leader, remind yourself of your accomplishments and skills. Seek mentorship and support from experienced colleagues, and focus on continuous learning and growth to build confidence in your leadership abilities.