Impostor Syndrome

Experiencing impostor syndrome is the sense of doubting your own skills, talents, or accomplishments - with the accompanying fear of being exposed as a “fraud.”

Rather than being fearful of it, I like to think of impostor syndrome the way that renowned coach Rich Litvin puts it:

RULE #1: Don’t get rid of Imposter Syndrome. Get good at it. If you don’t feel like an imposter, you’re not playing big enough.

Impostor Syndrome showing up means you’re expanding your comfort zone. Most people want to recoil from or suppress it. That will likely only fuel its power. I suggest a different mindset: embrace it, appreciate it, reframe it, and dance with it so it becomes a source of motivation to grow.

If you’re a high performer seeking new heights, feeling like you're in over your head just comes with the territory. This doesn't have to be a problem, however. At a high level, strategies to get good at impostor syndrome include:

• De-stigmatize Impostor Syndrome: understand that this is a very common feeling among top performers in any field. You are not alone. There is nothing wrong with you.

• Reframe the fear into something empowering.

• Shift your perspective so you can see the situation as a gift and an opportunity.

• Reveal authentic confidence: develop a mindfulness skillset that includes tools for letting go of disempowering emotions, thoughts, and impulses.

• Cultivate continuous growth: get smarter, better, and more well-rounded.

• Build a positive reputation with yourself: every action you take is a vote for the kind of person you want to be. Your mind, even if only subconsciously, keeps a score of what kind of person you are. This affects your core confidence and how you show up in the world. Learn to keep 100% of your promises to yourself and to others. Be generous and kind. Serve others.