Psychology Today describes imposter syndrome as people who believe that they are undeserving of their achievements and the high esteem in which they are, in fact, generally held. They feel that they aren’t as competent or intelligent as others might think—and that soon enough, people will discover the truth about them. 

Why do we doubt ourselves our capabilities our achievements, and worry that others will find out, that we’re really not as competent as we’re perceived? That the image we’ve created is just that, an image? Born of luck, not skill.  

Psych Today also claims about 30% of high achievers may suffer from imposter syndrome;  around 70% of adults may experience it at least once in their lifetime.

Have you?  Well, consider the following questions Clance Imposter Phenomenon Scale and see if any resonate with you:

• I can give the impression that I’m more competent than I really am.
• When people praise me for something I’ve accomplished, I’m afraid I won’t be able to live up to their expectations of me in the future.
• I’m afraid people important to me may find out that I’m not as capable as they think I am.

Do any of those statements ring true for you?  Or have they at some point in your career?

And in realizing that so many of us experience this either sometimes or frequently, the important question is, what do we do about it?  Overcome it?  

I would of course say, work with a coach, because I’m like a coach.  And a coach helps you see yourself as you are. To create alignment in your authentic self.  And one of my true joys in to work with people to identify their strengths, find evidence for their accomplishments, and to reflect on them.  Honor them.  And to continue to seek out and align to this more authentic mindset.

And change to this mindset we must.  Because if we don’t we can stifle ourselves. We may not pursue an opportunity that could be the role of a lifetime.  We may not accept that next new challenge, thinking that based on our quest for perfection, we may fail.  

Additionally, these limiting thoughts just keep taking up precious headspace.  Space in our minds that can be used in a more constructive and creative manner.  

To counter these feelings of inadequacy, we also may engage in practices that don’t serve us.  We work harder, more, striving for perfection, holding ourselves to an unattainable standard and at a level that doesn’t serve our health and wellbeing.  And one that doesn’t serve as a  role model for others.  

But what if we were more transparent and vulnerable in the areas that challenge us, rather than hiding our authentic selves—because we fear we’ll be discovered as a fraud.  Because again if you don’t believe in yourself, how much will you risk? 

To overcome this phenomenon:

1. Listen to what your brain is offering you about yourself, and tell it to shut up
2. Challenge your mindset, adopt a growth mindset (See podcast  4 Growth )
3. Network with others, be vulnerable and transparent about challenges 
4. Accept praise, compliments and recognition with genuine sincerity and gratitude
5. Be deliberate about reflecting on your successes and accomplishments, noting the efforts and strategies you used to achieve them; highlight your skill not luck

Most of all, believe in

Be the Best Leader You Know

Perform with Power, Lead with Impact, Inspire Growth

To sharpen your skills and increase your confidence, check out the Confident Leader Course:  https://www.intentionaleaders.com/confident-leader