Imposter Syndrome - What is it?

 

Imposter syndrome is characterized by persistent self-doubt. It refers to a long-lasting feeling of unworthiness that doesn’t match up with the facts or others’ perceptions.

It can lead to doubt and a fear of being exposed as a fraud, despite evident successes. It can lead to low self-esteem, anxiety, and burnout.

When I started my first business, and it became a big success, I suffered from this syndrome for the first time in my career. I remember visiting with my mother and explaining that I did not feel worthy of the money coming in, the most I had ever made in my career. In her wisdom, she said,” You have worked very hard and made this business a success! Of course, you deserve the money!” I recognized my feeling of unworthiness.

Another business I started had me doing the same thing. Not feeling worthy. A wise woman pointed out to me that I was stuck because I was afraid of success! So, I got over it again and moved to new heights.

One time, I was hired as the Executive Director of a ministry. I knew before I started that most of the staff didn’t want me there because “women are not to run ministries.” I had a crazy inside voice telling me that I might get found out, that I was not worthy of such a position, that…ok, that went on for a while until I caught on to what was happening again.

By recognizing the negative thought patterns associated with imposter syndrome and altering them, a person can improve their self-perception and confidence. Mindfulness can help a person accept themselves as they are, reducing pressure to meet unrealistic expectations.

Keeping a list of accomplishments and reviewing it will help combat feelings of inadequacy. Seeking feedback from peers can alleviate feelings of isolation and self-doubt.

There is, however, a very positive spin on imposter syndrome. Here is a quote from Scott Galloway. “It’s actually good to have imposter syndrome. If you are not in rooms you don’t deserve to be in, you are not trying that hard.”

Keep showing up, stand in new rooms, put yourself in front of others, and watch the growth. With consistency, you will get better at who you were meant to be.

Here are some traits to know about this syndrome:

·         Having unrealistically high standards

·         Dreading being ‘found out’ as a fraud

·         Consistently feeling out of place or unworthy

·         Dwelling on negative feedback while ignoring praise and achievements

Here are the consequences of the traits:

·         Missed opportunities

·         Reduced productivity

·         Low Self-Esteem

·         Burnout

·         Loss of Confidence

·         Social Isolation

·         Depression

·         Anxiety

Facts: Imposter Syndrome is common among high-achieving individuals. Women & underrepresented groups are more likely to experience imposter syndrome. Around 70% of people have suffered from imposter syndrome at some point.

Note that the risk factors for this syndrome are found in both careers and relationships.

If you find yourself in any of the following scenarios, you could be at risk:

·         Being in a toxic or hostile environment

·         Achievement-oriented childhood

·         Perfectionist tendencies

·         Experiencing discrimination or bias

·         Low self-esteem or self-defeating thoughts

·         Defining success based on the job role

·         High need for external validation 

 

To overcome this syndrome, self-reflection strategies will help. If this is a major struggle, there are therapists who specialize in this, so reach out for help.

Be Well & Business Blessings!

Debra Lee | Biz & Life Coach | Author & Keynote Speaker

DLBIZServices.com 

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