70% of the working population experience this. One of the most vocal sufferers of this is FB COO Sheryl Sandberg. Many that join her are among our esteemed members of society, like actor Tom Hanks and civil rights activist Maya Angelou.
You guessed it! We’re talking about Imposter Syndrome.
The concept of the “Imposter Syndrome” is nebulous for most people. Most of us believe that others don’t experience it. And when we experience it, it often takes us by surprise – often concluding with emotionally debilitating results.
So, what exactly is Imposter Syndrome?
It’s usually defined as the inability to believe that our success is deserved or has been legitimately achieved as a result of your own efforts or skills.
But what if there was a different way of understanding this widespread and undiscriminating phenomenon?
Look, we ALL experience insecurities. For those who are striving for growth and excellence, the feeling of Imposter Syndrome can be constant and unrelenting. But what if Imposter Syndrome wasn’t something to be fixed or remedied? As success coach Rich Litvin put it, what Imposter Syndrome was just a feature, not a bug?
Myths About Imposter Syndrome
It doesn’t affect really smart people
BUSTED: Smart people often feel it more acutely because they are aware that there’s more to know.
It disappears once you reach the C-suite
BUSTED: Professionals at every level report feeling a deep sense of insecurity about their ability to do the job they’ve been promoted to do.
It decreases as you become more successful.
BUSTED: Imposter Syndrome shows up at every stage of professional developmental growth.
I’d like to offer a new definition for our mutual friend, Imposter Syndrome:
Imposter Syndrome is a healthy clue that your development and journey toward
success is not stagnant.
In other words, it’s a growth indicator. That means that if you never experience it, you’re not playing big enough.
Think about the last time you experienced Imposter Syndrome. What triggered it for you? How did it feel, not only emotionally, but physically? What was the discomfort like?
Because Imposter Syndrome is a growth indicator, it would be good for us to become familiar with when and how it shows up. That way, instead of allowing it to debilitate us, we can make it work in our favor.
Strategies for Optimizing Your Imposter Syndrome
Give yourself permission to embrace your Imposter Syndrome so that it works for you, not against you.
Plan: Look ahead in your calendar. What meetings or conversations are coming that may inspire Imposter Syndrome?
Breathe: Imposter syndrome activates the fear triggers in our brains and decreases our ability to see the bigger picture. Deep breathing reassures the brain that we are safe, and allows our creativity and vision to flow back to us.
Get Curious: Ask yourself, what can I give and what can I gain?
- What can I give? Take stock of the skills, experience, and expertise that you legitimately have to offer. Resist the temptation to underestimate these gifts.
- What can I gain? Consider: Who can I learn from in this room? What can I notice about others and about myself?
Celebrate: If you experienced Imposter Syndrome and survived, then you are in great company!Remember, this feeling only comes when we’re being asked to grow.
Those who welcome growth, challenge, and big dreams also pave the way for profound levels of personal and professional success.
What tools do you currently have in your toolbox that you can use to optimize your
Imposter Syndrome?
With love,
Mari Carmen
