Imposter Syndrome & the Working Woman: Recognizing & Overcoming the Silent Struggle
Deshika Rodrigo (She/Her)
Leadership and Inter Cultural Coach, HR Consultant and Diversity Specialist/ Coaching Leaders, Bridging Cultures, and Advancing Women’s Success
Sheila is a senior marketing executive at a top-tier firm. Despite her numerous awards and superior performance, Sheila often feels like she’s just one mistake away from being exposed as a fraud. Each time she receives praise or a promotion, she attributes it to luck or a temporary fluke rather than her skills and hard work.? Can you relate?? Well, Sheila's story is not unique—it's a common narrative among many of us, working women.
As a leadership coach, I encounter many talented, high-achieving women like Sheila who struggle with similar feelings. The good news is that Imposter Syndrome can be overcome and eventually women do recognize their worth, overcome self-doubt, and embrace their full potential.?
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?Understanding Imposter Syndrome
Imposter Syndrome is marked by constant self-doubt and feeling like a fraud, which can overshadow feelings of success or external validation of competence. This psychological pattern can affect anyone, but it is particularly prevalent among high-achieving women, who I have observed first hand.? According to a study published in the International Journal of Behavioral Science, an estimated 70% of people experience Imposter Syndrome at some point in their careers.?
Dr. Valerie Young, an expert on Imposter Syndrome, states, "The only difference between people who experience imposter syndrome and those who don’t is that the people who don’t experience it push through it. They don’t let it stop them."
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?Why Imposter Syndrome Affects Working Women
Several factors contribute to the prevalence of Imposter Syndrome among working women:
1.???? Cultural Expectations: Societal norms and gender roles often place unrealistic expectations on women to excel in multiple areas simultaneously.?
2.???? Workplace Dynamics: Women in male-dominated industries or leadership positions may feel they need to work harder to prove themselves.
3.???? Lack of Representation: The absence of female role models in senior roles can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and isolation in women.
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?Signs of Imposter Syndrome
Do you think you might be suffering from Imposter Syndrome?? Well, recognizing the signs of Imposter Syndrome is the first step towards overcoming it.
Common symptoms include:
·??????? Perfectionism: Setting excessively high standards and being overly critical of one's performance.
·??????? Overworking: Putting in extra hours to ensure tasks are done perfectly, often at the expense of your own personal well-being.
·??????? Attributing Success to External Factors: Believing achievements are due to luck, timing, karma or external help rather than one's own skills.
·??????? Fear of Failure: Avoiding new challenges or opportunities due to fear of being exposed as incompetent.
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?Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
Imposter Syndrome can be overcome with the right strategies and mindset shifts. By acknowledging the issue and actively working on it, either on your own or together with a trusted friend, mentor or coach, you can break free from the cycle of self-doubt and embrace your true potential.
Here are some steps to help you on this journey:
1.???? Acknowledge Your Feelings: Accept that feeling like an imposter is common and really does not reflect your true abilities.
2.???? Celebrate Achievements: Take time to recognize and celebrate your successes, no matter how small.
3.???? Seek Support: Talk to mentors, peers, or a professional coach about your feelings.
4.???? Reframe Negative Thoughts: Challenge and reframe negative self-talk into positive affirmations.
5.???? Embrace Failure: Understand that failure is a part of growth and does not define your worth or abilities.
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?Conclusion
Imposter Syndrome is a silent struggle that many working women face, but it does not have to hold you back. By recognizing and addressing these feelings, you can build your confidence, embrace your achievements, and continue to thrive in your career. Remember, you are not an imposter; you are capable, accomplished, and deserving of your success!
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"Feeling confident—or pretending that you feel confident—is necessary to reach for opportunities. It’s a cliché, but opportunities are rarely offered; they’re seized."? Sheryl Sandberg
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Deshika Rodrigo
Executive Coach, HR Consultant and Motivational Speaker
Tel: +94-777-743150
July 2024