Imposter Syndrome at Work,
Overcoming Self-Doubt
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Imposter syndrome is a very common experience that can affect people of any level of success, from seasoned leaders to novices, in any profession. Those who identify with feelings of imposter syndrome report never feeling good enough, even when they receive positive feedback, accolades, and even in the face of evidence of their accomplishments.
Imposter syndrome is characterized by a persistent feeling of self-doubt, low self-worth, and a lack of confidence in a person’s own capability. People with imposter syndrome report feeling like they are frauds, like they are about to be “found out”, and that they don’t deserve their success.
Imposter syndrome can have a significant impact on the workplace. It can lead to anxiety, stress, and low self-esteem issues, which decrease productivity, focus, and collaboration. It can also make it difficult to take risks, ask for help, and avoid situations that will cause individuals to feel over-exposed.
There are ways of addressing and improving imposter syndrome, and Recess helps individuals working through these challenges by utilizing an innovative science-backed approach.
The signs and symptoms of imposter syndrome can vary from person to person. However, some of the most common experiences include:
People with imposter syndrome may feel like they don't deserve their success. They may believe that they are only where they are because of luck or other factors, not because of their own hard work, skill, and accomplishments.
People with imposter syndrome may be constantly afraid of being found out as a fraud. They may worry that their colleagues will realize that they are not as smart or capable as they seem.
People with imposter syndrome may constantly second-guess themselves. They may be afraid to make decisions or take risks because they are afraid of making mistakes.
People with imposter syndrome may compare themselves to others and feel like they don't measure up. They may focus on the successes of others and ignore their own accomplishments.
Imposter syndrome can affect individuals in the workplace in a number of ways. The most impactful areas include:
People with imposter syndrome may be so focused on their own perceived shortcomings that they have difficulty focusing on their work, are afraid of their work being critiqued, or obsess over small details of their work so they can produce a “perfect” product. This can lead to decreased productivity and missed deadlines.
People with imposter syndrome may avoid tasks that they feel they are not qualified to do. This can lead to missed opportunities, decreased skill development, and a feeling of stagnation in their careers.
People with imposter syndrome may engage in negative self-talk, such as "I'm not good enough" or "I'm going to fail." This can lead to low self-esteem and a lack of confidence.
People with imposter syndrome may withdraw from social interactions at work. This can lead to loneliness and a feeling of disconnection from their colleagues, as well as missed opportunities for collaboration and advancement.
There are a number of factors that may contribute to the development of imposter syndrome, including parenting, experiences at school, and the influence of cultural expectations. Those with imposter syndrome also tend to be predisposed to perfectionism, low self esteem, and anxiety. Imposter syndrome is correlated with biological changes in the brain.
Overall, most people with imposter syndrome adopt a pattern of needing to act or perform a certain way in order to get love approval (at home, school, or work). This leads to putting on a face, an image, or acting in certain ways that is expected in certain situations. Then when these individuals receive praise, they are unable to integrate that praise because the feedback is being given to that image or act rather than their authentic selves.
Another essential component is the tendency to internalize mistakes or failures as a negative aspect of two they are, rather than a natural and temporary aspect of any healthy growth and learning. So they feel they are bad when they make mistakes, and they cannot accept praise when they succeed.
It’s also important to note that imposter syndrome can affect people of all genders and races. However, some research suggests that women and people of color may be more likely to experience imposter syndrome. This is because they may face additional challenges in the workplace, such as unconscious bias and discrimination.
Overcoming imposter syndrome is not easy, but it is possible. Recess helps its users to address imposter syndrome through the Potential Processing Session. While you’re using Recess, here are some other helpful tips for overcoming imposter syndrome:
The first step to overcoming imposter syndrome is to identify your triggers. What are the things that make you feel self-doubt or like a fraud? Also, notice how you commonly react when you feel triggered. Once you know your triggers and how you react, you can start to develop strategies for dealing with those patterns.
People with imposter syndrome often have negative thoughts and emotions about themselves and their abilities. Notice these negative thoughts and feelings, and notice the patterns that indicate underlying negative beliefs about yourself. It is important to shift these thoughts, emotions and beliefs over time and replace them with more realistic and positive mental patterns.
As you notice the pattern of choosing outside approval over your own inner preferences or strengths, you can begin to repair the relationship with yourself and challenge the pattern of placing external feedback first and wearing masks to get love. While this process is not quick, it is important and life changing for those with imposter syndrome.
Everyone has strengths and weaknesses. It is important to focus on your strengths and to celebrate your accomplishments. As you gain a better sense of your natural gifts, you can find ways to acknowledge them, utilize them, and celebrate them. As you do, you can build your self confidence by setting realistic goals, taking small risks, and being compassionate with yourself as you make mistakes through your learning process.
If you are struggling with imposter syndrome, it is important to seek support. Talk to a trusted friend, family member, therapist, or coach. Many people have dealt with imposter syndrome, and you can learn from their journeys and what has worked for others to help you.
Create a culture that acknowledges part of learning is making mistakes and being imperfect. Empower employees to discuss their mistakes with leaders and peers to learn and grow, rather than punishing for mistakes or only rewarding achievements.
Rather than acknowledging successes alone, get to know and validate individuals for their unique gifts and strengths. Utilize strength-based assessments and training to aid in this process, like Clifton StrengthFinders and others.
A supportive work environment is one where employees feel safe to take risks and make mistakes. Managers can create a supportive work environment by providing positive feedback, encouraging employees to take on new challenges and discuss their experiences, and making sure leaders are open to feedback as well.
implement training and conversations that discuss the role of self esteem, self doubt, emotional intelligence, and imposter syndrome in the workplace. Help employees to see their workplace as a place to openly work and improve their internal challenges, and the positive impact on workplace cohesion and productivity.
Positive reinforcement and acknowledgement can help to boost employees' confidence and self-esteem. Managers can provide positive reinforcement by acknowledging employees' strengths and accomplishments, giving public praise, and offering them opportunities to take on new challenges to learn and grow.
Imposter syndrome is a common experience that can affect people of all levels of success. However, it is possible to overcome imposter syndrome with the right approach. Recess helps individuals working to overcome imposter syndrome to utilize our innovative bilateral stimulation combined with our Foundation of Flow Framework to increase your feelings of self worth and confidence. By combining Recess with the tips in this blog post, you can help yourself or your employees overcome imposter syndrome and achieve your full potential.
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