Imposter Syndrome

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In this last year, I have heard more about Imposter Syndrome than ever before. Seemingly successful, confident and competent people, feeling stuck and held back by their own thoughts about themselves.

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“ I shouldn’t be at this meeting”

“People think I am not good enough for this role”

“I am out of depth here”

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There are many different ways Imposter Syndrome can be demonstrated and they aren’t always as simple as feeling you don’t belong in your career. Some of my clients have reported experiencing this recently, and it is important to recognise that this is normal, and we all feel these thoughts from time to time.

But what happens when we they stop us fulfilling our potential, climbing the ladder or performing as we need to?

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I shared an infographic on my social media last month looking at the 5 types of people that commonly experience IS, and how it manifests. It was really useful, so I’ll summarise it here.

THE EXPERT

A believer that you should know everything about your field and you shouldn’t need to know more. You doubt yourself when you find there is more to learn.

THE SOLOIST

You don’t like to ask for help, as this makes you feel inadequate. You don’t feel authentic as it feels as though you are admitting inadequacy.

THE SUPER-PERSON

Achievements mean everything for your self- worth. You like to be in control and successful at everything. If you fall short, the self-doubt creeps in.

THE PERFECTIONIST

You hold yourself to impossibly high standards. If you fall short from being perfect this is when you feel you are not performing where you should be.

THE NATURAL GENIUS

You believe in intelligence and competence and if you don’t get something right away, you think it’s because you are not right for the role or task.

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These feelings don't need to define us or limit us, but yet they sometimes do. Through coaching we can explore the factors that have contributed to your self- doubt, and tackle them head on. We can try different tools to use when you need them. But most importantly, you will have time to reflect on your development and skills and build your confidence again, ensuring your self- doubts are only passing thoughts

If you don’t believe in your abilities, then why are you believing your brain when it gives you these thoughts? Thoughts are not facts. They can be argued, they can be disproved.

There are ways of managing these thoughts, and we can call upon them, when we need them most.

Please take a look at my coaching services and press contact us if you would like to know more.