Fighting imposter syndrome in your first General Counsel role.

Imposter syndrome can be particularly challenging for those starting a new role as General Counsel, where there is often a high level of responsibility and expectations to perform at a high level. Imposter syndrome is characterized by feelings of self-doubt and insecurity, despite external evidence of one's competence and success.

Some common symptoms of imposter syndrome in a General Counsel role may include:

1. Overthinking or over-analyzing your work: You may constantly question your decisions and second-guess your abilities, leading to an increased workload and stress.
2. Avoid taking risks: You may be afraid to take on new challenges or responsibilities for fear of failure, which can limit your professional growth and development.
3. Downplaying your achievements: You may feel like you don't deserve the recognition you receive for your work, and may not take credit for your accomplishments.
4. Difficulty accepting praise: When others acknowledge your achievements, you may feel like it's not genuine or that it's only a matter of time before others discover that you're not as competent as they believe you to be.

To combat imposter syndrome, it is important to acknowledge and understand these feelings and work on building self-confidence and resilience. Some strategies that can help include:

1. Seek support from others: Talking about your experiences with others can help you feel less alone and provide a sounding board for your thoughts and feelings.
2. Practice self-compassion: Remind yourself that everyone makes mistakes and has moments of self-doubt, and be kind and understanding with yourself.
3. Focus on your strengths: Make a list of your skills and accomplishments and remind yourself of what you bring to the table.
4. Build a network of mentors and peers: Connect with other General Counsel and seek guidance and support from experienced professionals who can offer insight and advice.
5. Celebrate your achievements: No matter how small, take time to acknowledge and celebrate your successes to help boost your confidence and motivation.

Remember, imposter syndrome is a common experience and it is possible to overcome it. By recognizing and managing these feelings, you can build confidence in your role as General Counsel and become an effective and successful leader.