Imposter sydrome is something that I have struggled with during my career and more recently, I’ve been helping several peers overcome their Imposter Syndrome in their new roles and career path.

If you’re wondering what it is; this Harvard Business Review gives a great overview.

What could Imposter Syndrome look like?

I was discussing this with a friend of mine as we were looking at ways to readdress the balance between: “Imposter and self assured”

How can you change this mindset?

It starts with the little voice inside your head and reframing the negative thoughts that you have into a positive viewpoint. Using the above image as an example:

“Everyone else has their sh*t together” becomes “I’ve got my sh*t together and that’s great”

“I’m a fraud” becomes “I’m a qualified and experienced professional and deserve to be here”.

How would you change those statements?

When I’m mentoring other professionals, I look at the importance of where their own “imposter syndrome” lies and do exercises to reaffirm their confidence as well as internal knowledge of their ability. Using the ‘fraud’ example, I ask them about their experience, their qualifications, experience in the company or industry. Then, I read back their accomplishments. You’d be surprised how many people suddenly say: “Oh. I didn’t think of it like that!”.

There may be deeper implications for “imposter syndrome” which hold professionals back from reaching their true potential, so working on your own imposter Syndrome is not something that should be overlooked when you’re working on your self development.

The imposter syndrome is in many of us but with a little work and reflection, you can shine and see the experienced professional that lies within.