Have you ever wondered when you’re going to be ‘found out’? When people are going to realise you don’t know as much as they think you do? I can certainly relate to those feelings of self-doubt.
If you can relate to it too, you’re likely to be suffering from ‘imposter syndrome’, and you’re more likely to be a woman than a man. The syndrome affects many successful people, and if it is allowed to dominate your thinking, it can be debilitating.
Today I read two great posts about antidotes to Impostor Syndrome. Dr Suzanne Doyle-Morris writes about using self-belief to counter the voices of self-doubt. And Noel Gray specifically cites a section of a speech incorrectly credited to Nelson Mandela as its originator. Irrespective of the urban myth which credits it to Mandela, it’s a powerful statement of empowerment. A third way of getting a true perspective on your capabilities is to use 360 degree feedback facilitated by an experienced coach.
If you allow your imposter voice to dominate your thinking, you are far more likely to back down from a challenge. Both the antidotes suggested in these posts can help you choose to take a few measured risks in the knowledge that you are smart, capable and effective. And now that you know about it, you’re far more likely to recognise the Imposter Syndrome when it strikes.
Remember, most of the time, there is absolutely no reason you should be less capable than anyone else. And once you realise that, you can achieve whatever you set your mind to.
Photo credit: Graham
Article by Vandy Massey
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