Many of us have those moments where we really doubt ourselves and our abilities. I know I certainly do. Not as often as I used to, but they can creep in occasionally.
Do you sometimes feel like a fraud? Do you think your achievements come down to good luck or good timing rather than to your hard work?
If you do, then chances are you are experiencing typical feelings of the Imposter Syndrome, which affects many high achievers.
Let’s have a quick look at the behaviours involved in those suffering from Imposter Syndrome:
- She is unable to internalise and accept her successes.
- She often attributes her accomplishments to luck rather than to ability.
- She feels a little out of her depth even though she isn’t.
- She fears that others will eventually expose her as a fraud.
Does any of this sound familiar to you?
I have used the female pronoun because while Imposter Syndrome isn’t unique to women, it seems to affect a much higher number of us than it does men.
If you recognise yourself as someone who experiences Imposter Syndrome, it’s worth noting that you’re not alone. In fact, you’re in great company!
Jodie Foster, Sheryl Sandberg, Meryl Streep, Maya Angelou and even Dr Margaret Chan, head of the World Health Organisation, have all talked about feeling like a fraud at different times in their career.
The good news is that you can deal with Imposter Syndrome.
Here are three tips to help you to stop feeling like a fraud so you can enjoy your hard earned achievements.
1. Look at Your Mindset
First and foremost, you need to recognise and acknowledge your feelings, then you can deal with them effectively. You need to be secure in the inner knowledge that you deserve your success, that it is a result of your hard work. It’s also important to recognise that Imposter Syndrome is not a personality trait; it is a response and we can change our responses. We do everyday.
2. Listen to Your Inner Voice
When those doubts or insecurities start running through your mind, just pause and acknowledge them. “Oh, that’s interesting, I’m feeling like an imposter”. Then ask yourself, “Do I have the credentials? Am I going to give this my best shot? Of course, I am!” Look for the validation internally rather than externally.
3. Look at Your Credentials
Take the time to review how hard you’ve worked and what you’ve actually achieved. This can do wonders for your self-esteem and for putting the Imposter Syndrome to bed. Write your achievements down! You know it’s not luck when you see the proof in front of you in black and white.
It’s also important to be proactive in continuing your education: getting further qualifications, doing short courses and workshops. Professional development not only builds your career, it also increases your confidence and self-belief.
I know I have personally struggled with Imposter Syndrome. As you can imagine, being a mother of six and a stay-at-home mum for a number of years… need I say more?
It was a struggle to really own my professional achievements and to step up as a leader. But with the skills and successes,I have earned the hard way. My confidence grew until and I now proudly stake my claim.
If you would like more tips on building your confidence, you can download our LeadHERship Confidence Boosting Tips eBook here.
