Imposter syndrome is a psychological pattern in which an individual doubts their skills, talents, or accomplishments and has a persistent internalized fear of being exposed as a “fraud.” People who struggle with imposter syndrome 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. Those with imposter syndrome are often well accomplished; they may hold leadership roles or have numerous academic degrees.  It is a common experience and can occur at any point in the career lifespan.  Often, we become so focused on our feelings of inadequacy as fact that we avoid exploring those feelings more deeply and discovering for ourselves where our strengths and weaknesses lie.  In that discovery, we can find strength and acknowledge that none of us are perfect, know everything, or do everything right.  And that is ok! Because we all have significant strengths, passion, and positive energy to bring to our work lives.  And we can all embrace humility while avoiding feeling like an imposter.

Quick Reads

How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome by Revuluri, Chronicle of Higher Education

Imposter Syndrome:  Understanding and Overcoming It by Psychology Today

Stop Telling Women They have Imposter Syndrome by Burey, Harvard Business Review

What is Imposter Syndrome. Learn What It IS and 10 Ways to Cope Saymeh, betterup.com

An inspirational poem I found online as part of an article:

You are suffering from self-doubt while others are intimidated by your full potential.  We are our own worst critic.  If your past self could see ahead to who you have become today, think how impressed they would be.

Deeper Dives

Here are some book options (with a summary to help you choose) if you would like to take a deeper dive into this topic:

• 1. The Impostor Phenomenon
• 2. The Secret Thoughts of Successful Women
• 3. Lean In: Women, Work and the Will to Lead
• 4. Presence: Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest Challenges
• 5. Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy
• 6. The Gifts of Imperfection
• 7. The Practice: Shipping Creative Work
• 8. Educated: A Memoir
• 9. The Diversity Advantage: Fixing Gender Inequality in the Workplace
• 10. The Imposter Cure: Escape the Mind-Trap of Imposter Syndrome

Feel free to forward to others in your network and bring these topics to your next coaching session for deeper discussion and reflection. If you have a topic request, feedback, or would like to unsubscribe please email wendy@wardcc.org.