Tackling Imposter Syndrome

I was having a coffee with a good friend recently, which led me to write this article. Our conversation was lovely, and I loved listening to the insights and learning from them; however, towards the end of our conversation, we started discussing the topic of imposter syndrome and how they were affected by it. The discussion got me thinking: how prevalent is imposter syndrome among today's leaders? In my experience working with people, pursuing excellence is essential in the modern professional landscape, with the constant pressure to perform and achieve. ?Imposter syndrome has been silently and pervasively creeping up on us and has invaded leadership ranks. For a quick recap, imposter syndrome is a psychological term (or pattern of thinking) that describes our feeling of being exposed as a "fraud" despite having objective evidence of one’s achievements and abilities. In a recent article in HCAMag.com (an HR website) by Dexter Tilo, he describes a surge in interest, with searches for imposter syndrome climbing by 75% in 2024. This statistic only reinforces the discussion with my friend, who is accomplished in their field and thankfully candid about their struggles with imposter syndrome (I'll talk about this later).

The Leadership Challenge

As a leader, you guide your team and make critical decisions, often under heightened examination. The expectation you have on you to embody confidence and competence can drive the wheel of the inner turmoil of imposter syndrome even faster. My friend shared how the visibility inherent in leadership roles intensifies their feeling of being an imposter, turning every success into a moment of anxiety instead of pride. The irony of visibility being your ally instead of your vulnerability shouldn't be underestimated.

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

Having given some thought to the conversation, I’ve identified below three strategies to help combat the scourge of imposter syndrome.

1. Acknowledge and Normalise the Experience

Firstly, it's essential to recognise the presence of imposter syndrome. My friend described to me how understanding that these feelings were widespread among leaders offered a sense of relief. As a leader, you must realise you are not alone in this battle. By attempting to normalise your experience of imposter syndrome at work, you can create an environment where vulnerability is seen as part of your human experience, not a weakness. To succeed as a leader, you must be creative and innovative; innovation requires vulnerability (the willingness to fail). Showing vulnerability as a leader, you open the channels of communication in your team, inviting transparency and connection.

2. Reframe Failure and Celebrate Success

Something that kept reoccurring in our conversation was their tendency to overlook success. Instead, they had a fixation on failure. As a leader, shift your consciousness to view failure as a necessary step toward your growth and success as a testament to your competence and effort. We know that celebrating success, both big and small, helps internalise success. If we recognise and talk about success, our unconscious mind hears we're successful and aids in internalisation.

?3. Seek Feedback and Support

The sense of isolation can also magnify the effects of imposter syndrome. Regardless of who you are or where you are in your career, you need a network of support from whom you can receive constructive feedback and when you need reassurance. Discussing with peers, mentors, or coaches provides an external perspective that can challenge and reduce self-doubt. My friend and I discussed their network and whether the right people were there. Additionally, pursuing professional development can help equip you with strategies to build your confidence and overall leadership skills, helping alleviate imposter syndrome.

Embracing the Journey

Overcoming imposter syndrome is an ongoing process. It will demand persistence to challenge negative self-talk and self-perceptions, acknowledge achievements, and develop or enhance your supportive connections.

You can lead by example, demonstrating that vulnerability is a strength and seeking objective support is a cornerstone of effective leadership. By doing this, you can begin overcoming your challenges with imposter syndrome and inspire a more authentic, resilient, and supportive culture. Developing these skills reminds me of an extract from one of my favourite quotes, often credited to Nelson Mandela. However, the quote was written in the book "A Return to Love." by Marianne Williamson.

“…And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” Marianne Williamson

Time to let your light shine!