Which Imposter Are You?

This year I started a new role as Grad Student UNC-Chapel Hill after establishing a successful career. Enrolling in the Master of Educational Innovation, Technology and Entrepreneurship (MEITE) program, I was excited to be back on a university campus. However, my excitement quickly turned into overwhelm when I realized I lacked some of the basic knowledge of the Education field. Terms like extraneous cognitive load and metacognition were thrown around and when my professor asked me which learning theory I wanted to present on, I picked Adult Learning Theory because it was literally the only theory I knew. (Weren't you supposed to teach me this first, Profe? That's why I am here. jaja)

Surrounded by academics, administrators and teachers, I suddenly felt a sense of uncertainty—was I really meant to be here? What if the department chair made a mistake by accepting me into the program? What if I was an Imposter and fooled everyone into thinking I was smarter than I really am?

This experience isn't unique to me; it resonates deeply with many of us, especially within the Latina community, where cultural expectations and personal ambitions often clash, breeding a fertile ground for what is commonly known as imposter syndrome.

In this article, we'll explore the five types of imposter syndrome, each representing a different mask we wear to cover our fears of inadequacy and failure. As we peel back these layers, I hope to share not only my journey of overcoming these doubts but also to empower you to recognize and conquer your own imposter experiences.

Understanding the Five Faces of Imposter Syndrome and Strategies to Overcome

Strategies:

- Set Realistic Goals: Focus on achievable targets and celebrate small victories to boost confidence.

- Embrace Mistakes: View errors as opportunities to learn, which can foster a healthier approach to work and personal growth.

- Seek Constructive Feedback: Regular feedback can guide improvements and help normalize receiving guidance from others.

Strategies:

- Set Boundaries and Prioritize Self-Care: Recognize the importance of balance and integrate regular breaks into your schedule.

- Normalize Rest: Understand that rest is productive and necessary for long-term success.

- Reframe Your Relationship with Work: Shift your perspective to see your value beyond your productivity levels.

Strategies:

Adopt a Growth Mindset: See challenges as opportunities to improve and understand that proficiency comes with time and practice.

- Set Learning Goals: Focus on the learning process itself rather than the outcome, easing the pressure on immediate success.

- Break Tasks into Smaller Steps: Manage feelings of overwhelm by approaching large tasks in manageable increments.

Strategies:

- Practice Asking for Help: Start small to gradually build your comfort with dependence on others.

- Acknowledge the Value of Teamwork: Reflect on how collaborative efforts have led to past successes and can enhance future outcomes.

- Reflect on Past Successes: Keeping a record of what was achieved through teamwork can strengthen your appreciation for collective efforts.

Strategies:

- Focus on Core Competencies: Identify and strengthen key skills that are essential for your role, rather than trying to know everything.

- Teach Others: Sharing your knowledge can validate your expertise and boost your confidence.

- Set Realistic Learning Goals: Allow yourself to learn as you go, rather than needing to be an expert from the start.

Imposter Syndrome is not being able to internalize your own success        

By recognizing these patterns and implementing these strategies, you can start to dismantle the imposter feelings that may be holding you back, allowing you to embrace your talents and achievements fully.

Meet me Friday in Chicago where I will be at the Avanza Summit hosted by HACE and talking at the Platica ?Basta Ya! Conquering Imposter Syndrome, the Telenovela in Head"!

And don't forget, Yovana Rosales and I will be hosting, "Empowering Latinx Leaders through AI" workshop at Dominican University . Thank you to Aracelis Marie Sanchez-Guerrero, M.A. for making this happen! We will be sharing how to leverage AI for your leadership development and also touching on topics like boundaries and Imposter Syndrome. You don't need to be an executive or even have a strong knowledge of AI to attend. We got you covered. Get your tickets here (virtual option available) and help us spread the word.

Hope to see you there!!

Ruby Garcia

Ruby Garcia is a Leadership Coach, Hypnotherapist, and AI Practitioner dedicated to offering individuals and organizations support through long-term, sustainable leadership and transformation. She works with Latinas, first gen professionals and small business entrepreneurs. To schedule a call with Ruby for individual or organizational needs, go here.