“Unmasking Imposter Syndrome: Strategies to Overcome Self-Doubt and Thrive”

If you have been part of a panel discussion, a week or so before the event you might have started thinking about the topic from all angles. In this way, ideas, thoughts and resources accumulate, and they can't all be shared in 45-minute discussion, so I'm sharing more here.

Today Korn Ferry sponsored a panel called, "Shaking the Imposter Syndrome". On this panel, we learned that about 80% of people have had some experience with the imposter syndrome, an occasional twinge of self-doubt. Although most of us experience it, it's often high achieving individuals who live with the unspoken fear of being found to be a fraud.

Our panel shone a light on the imposter phenomenon, especially on how it shows up at work. The imposter syndrome is a gray cloud, hanging over what otherwise might be confident preparation and feelings of pride in our contribution, and delight in having used our talents.

In an interview, Ariana Huffington said she calls this imposter voice her "obnoxious roommate". I think that's an apt metaphor, as well as a helpful distancing device.

Tennis pro Serena Williams lived under the shadow of her older sister and felt like an imposter until she owned her own abilities. Emma Watson, Tom Hanks and Tina Fey, are other well-known figures who have spoken about their self-doubts and insecurities, and how they deal with them.

I can check off some of the items on the Clance IP scale myself, including:

• Avoiding evaluations when possible
• Remembering times when I haven't done my best more than the times I have done my best, and,
• Often succeeding on a test or task even though I was afraid that I would not do well before I undertook the task.

Here are few ways to counteract the Imposter Syndrome:

• Take time to self-reflect and make a list of your talents, strengths, etc.
• Let acknowledgments and sincere compliments sink in.
• Learn to think like a "non-imposter" by seeking out constructive feedback and sharing your self-doubts and uncertainties with trusted friends and colleagues.
• Start using affirmations (remember to give yourself inner agreement when your mind refutes them).
• After a success that you were initially doubtful about, write about how it went. Who were you being during this time? What are you proud of? What would you like to celebrate?
• Adopt a growth mindset. Try to view mistakes as learning opportunities. Know that you can change your thoughts, conquer self-doubt and practice self-compassion.

Resources for better understanding and overcoming imposter syndrome:

Impostor-Syndrome-Resources-Annotated-Bib_FInal.pdf ( ashp.org )

bit.ly/4bZjddD - Deliciously Ella podcast on Imposter Syndrome and Self Doubt

BBC - Sound Advice: Imposter Syndrome

Books on Imposter Syndrome:

The Imposter Phenomenon: Overcoming the Fear that Haunts Your Success, by Dr. Pauline Rose Clance

The Secret Thoughts of Successful Women and Men, by Valerie Young

Overcoming Imposter Anxiety: Move Beyond Fear of Failure and Self-Doubt and Embrace Your Worthy, Capable Self, by Ijeoma Nwaogu

The Achilles Syndrome: Overcoming the Secret Fear of Failure, by Petruska Clarkson

The Imposter Lies Within: Silence Your Inner Critic, Tame Your Fear, by Sheryl Anjanette

Own Your Greatness: Overcome Imposter Syndrome, by Lisa Orbe Austin

Imposter No More: Overcome Self-Doubt and Imposterism to Cultivate a Successful Career, by Jill Stoddard

The Practice: Shipping Creative Work, by Seth Godin (focuses on creatives)

Letting Go of Imposter Syndrome: Stop Overthinking, Release Doubt and Anxiety, and Embrace Who You Truly Are, by Serena Choo

Imposter Syndrome, by Kathy Wang

Me, Myself and I(mposter), by Vanetta Morrison

The Gifts of Imperfection, by Brene Brown

Note: Fear and self-doubt are normal. However, if you have persistent anxiety, it may be something more than imposter syndrome. Take some time to familiarize yourself with anxiety disorders and reach out for professional help if you need it.