Oct 14
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Own Your Success
Have you ever achieved something great, only to feel like you didn't truly deserve it? Maybe you've experienced moments of doubt, thinking you're a fraud despite your accomplishments. If so, you're not alone.
This is the hallmark of imposter syndrome—a common challenge high achievers face.Imposter syndrome is the internal belief that you're not as competent as others perceive you to be, and it can hold back even the most successful professionals.
According to Lisa and Richard Orbé-Austin's TEDx talk, The Imposter Syndrome Paradox, those who struggle with it are often the most skilled and capable. So, how do you break free from this limiting belief and step confidently into the next level of your career?
This is the hallmark of imposter syndrome—a common challenge high achievers face.Imposter syndrome is the internal belief that you're not as competent as others perceive you to be, and it can hold back even the most successful professionals.
According to Lisa and Richard Orbé-Austin's TEDx talk, The Imposter Syndrome Paradox, those who struggle with it are often the most skilled and capable. So, how do you break free from this limiting belief and step confidently into the next level of your career?
Five strategies to overcome imposter syndrome
Ownership in personal branding is about staking a claim in your field of expertise, highlighting your accomplishments, and ensuring that your skills are recognised. It's an inward-focused approach emphasising "I own my success" and "I control my image." While this helps assert authority, it can also lead to isolation if not balanced with a sense of belonging. Ownership without belonging can make a personal brand feel detached or disconnected from the larger communities it seeks to engage.
The power of belonging in personal branding
Build a support network
Surround yourself with mentors, peers, and allies who validate your strengths and remind you of your worth. A strong network offers not just encouragement but valuable perspectives that help you see the reality of your achievements.
Challenge negative thoughts
A key strategy in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is recognising and challenging negative automatic thoughts. When self-doubt creeps in, ask yourself: "What evidence do I have that I'm not capable?" Replace these thoughts with facts—acknowledge your successes and expertise.
Prioritise self-care
Stop overworking to "prove yourself." Setting boundaries and taking care of your mental and physical health is crucial. When well-rested and balanced, you'll have more energy and confidence to face challenges head-on.
Acknowledge cultural pressures
Be mindful of societal and workplace norms that may amplify feelings of imposter syndrome, especially for women and people of colour. Recognise these pressures and find ways to challenge or navigate them. Advocating for yourself and others can be a decisive step in overcoming these barriers.
Celebrate your wins
Make it a habit to reflect on your achievements, no matter how small. Regularly recognising your accomplishments can slowly rewire your brain to embrace success rather than downplay it.
Cognitive Behavioural Techniques to Combat Imposter Syndrome
One of the most effective ways to combat imposter syndrome is to employ CBT techniques. These strategies can help you challenge and replace self-limiting beliefs:
Thought records: Whenever you feel like an imposter, write down the specific situation, the negative thoughts that arise, and evidence against those thoughts. This practice encourages objectivity and helps disprove irrational fears.
Behavioural experiments: Test your fears by engaging in activities you feel unqualified for and noting the outcomes. More often than not, you'll succeed, and this can diminish feelings of inadequacy.
Reframing: When faced with self-doubt, ask yourself: What would I say to a colleague or friend in this situation? This external perspective helps you offer yourself the same encouragement you would give others.
Complimentary resource: Intrinsic Motivators Worksheet
Thought records: Whenever you feel like an imposter, write down the specific situation, the negative thoughts that arise, and evidence against those thoughts. This practice encourages objectivity and helps disprove irrational fears.
Behavioural experiments: Test your fears by engaging in activities you feel unqualified for and noting the outcomes. More often than not, you'll succeed, and this can diminish feelings of inadequacy.
Reframing: When faced with self-doubt, ask yourself: What would I say to a colleague or friend in this situation? This external perspective helps you offer yourself the same encouragement you would give others.
Complimentary resource: Intrinsic Motivators Worksheet
To further support your journey, I've created the Intrinsic Motivators Worksheet. This tool will help you reconnect with what truly drives you, giving you the clarity and confidence to move forward with a stronger sense of purpose.
Ready to own your success?
If imposter syndrome holds you back, now is the time to act. You don't need to let self-doubt control your path to leadership or success.
Way to work with me
This course is designed to help you reconnect with your core values and overcome self-doubt. If imposter syndrome holds you back, this course will empower you to take control of your professional brand and fully embrace your success.
Reclaim your confidence with the Self-discovery: know your why course
- 1:1 Coaching: Work with me directly to overcome imposter syndrome and develop an empowered personal brand.
- Speaking engagements: Book a session for your team or organisation on tackling imposter syndrome in the workplace.
VAKA Consulting acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Australians and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we live, learn and work.
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