Do you ever find yourself doubting your own accomplishments, feeling like a fraud in your own life, despite evidence to the contrary? You’re not alone. Welcome to this month’s blog series, where we’ll delve deep into the often misunderstood topic of imposter syndrome.
In a world driven by success stories and the relentless pursuit of achievement, many of us grapple with an internal struggle that remains hidden beneath the surface. It’s a feeling that creeps in when we accomplish something significant, get a promotion, or receive praise for our hard work…
Instead of celebrating, we’re left questioning our worth and fearing that, at any moment, someone will uncover our supposed incompetence.
Imposter syndrome is a silent and persistent thief of confidence, lurking in the shadows of even the most accomplished individuals. It’s an internal battle that transcends career, age, and gender, affecting countless people across the globe. But, here’s the catch – it’s not based on reality.
This month, we’ll explore the roots of imposter syndrome, its various manifestations, and most importantly, I’ll provide practical strategies to help you break free from its grip.
Defining imposter syndrome
Imposter syndrome is a psychological phenomenon characterised by persistent self-doubt and the feeling of being a fraud, despite evidence of one’s competence, skills, and accomplishments.
People experiencing imposter syndrome often believe that they do not deserve their achievements or that they are not as competent as others perceive them to be. They attribute their successes to luck or external factors, rather than acknowledging their own abilities and hard work.
Imposter syndrome is relevant for several reasons:
Professional & personal wellbeing: Imposter syndrome can significantly impact an individual’s mental and emotional well-being. It can lead to stress, anxiety, and low self-esteem, which can affect both professional and personal relationships.
Career development: Individuals suffering from imposter syndrome may be hesitant to take on new challenges or opportunities, fearing failure. This can hinder their career growth and limit their potential.
Team dynamics: In a corporate context, imposter syndrome can affect team dynamics. When team members doubt their abilities, it can lead to reduced collaboration, innovation, and effective problem-solving.
Diversity & inclusion: Imposter syndrome may disproportionately affect underrepresented groups. Recognising and addressing imposter syndrome is crucial in promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
Common signs and behaviours associated with imposter syndrome include:
Self-doubt: Individuals with imposter syndrome constantly question their abilities and achievements, often believing that they are not as capable as others perceive them to be.
Perfectionism: Striving for perfection in their work and fearing that even minor mistakes will reveal their incompetence.
Overworking: Compensating for self-doubt by working excessively long hours or taking on too many tasks to prove their worth.
Attributing success to external factors: Dismissing their accomplishments as luck, timing, or the help of others, rather than recognising their own skills and effort.
Fear of failure: A paralysing fear of making mistakes or failing, which can prevent them from taking risks or pursuing new opportunities.
Difficulty accepting praise: Feeling uncomfortable or undeserving of compliments or positive feedback.
Comparing themselves to others: Constantly measuring their success against others, often feeling inferior in comparison.
Minimising achievements: Downplaying their accomplishments or achievements, no matter how significant.
Statistics reveal that imposter syndrome affects 70% of people at some point in their lives. It is also more likely in people who are experiencing anxiety, have low self-esteem or those who are more pessimistic – all of which can be a response to chronic stress.
However, it’s worth repeating that it can and does happen to even the most accomplished individuals – and I can attest to this having worked with many business owners and C-level executives!
If you resonate with any of the above, it’s important to know that just recognising these signs and behaviours is the first step in helping you overcome imposter syndrome, build self-confidence, and reach your full potential. It all starts with awareness.
I’d also like you to think about whether or not you can see a connection between when your imposter syndrome strikes and how stressed or anxious you were generally when it happened – and if so, which came first?
Look out for next week’s post, where I’ll be answering a reader’s question related to their personal struggles with imposter syndrome.
Kate x
