Imposter Syndrome - It's Time to Say Goodbye
Entrepreneurship is fraught with challenges - YOU should not be one of them!
I understand, I have been there.
Pitching, leading a business, navigating highs and lows, and making hard choices. But then you realise that your biggest limiting factor is YOU, in the form of the self-doubting, “I'm-a-fraud” thought habits we call Imposter Syndrome.
Working with a coach, I recalled a particularly uncomfortable, unpleasant experience in the hands of a bullish VC. The situation itself wasn't the issue. The issue was, that I had put the VC on a pedestal, paling any of my accomplishments into nothing. My coach responded with a line that changed the tide on my self-doubting narrative "Remember who created and led the business to this stage."
Imposter syndrome—the quiet saboteur that tiptoes into our minds, whispering doubts and casting shadows over our achievements. It’s that nagging feeling that we’re mere imposters, that our accomplishments are flukes, and any moment now, someone will expose us. But there are ways we can reclaim our confidence, embrace our true worth, and silence the imposter within.
The journey to overcome imposter syndrome is both personal and transformative. Firstly it is important to find approaches that work for you, and in doing so, you will find a new level of unshakeable confidence (note not arrogance), that will impact you and those around you. Here are the top 4 tactics that worked for me:
1. Gather Accomplishment Evidence
Collecting evidence of your accomplishments is a crucial strategy to combat imposter syndrome and self-doubt.
I use Full Focus Planner to set annual goals and document personal wins. Certificates, awards, positive feedback—gather them all. Your journal becomes a chronicle of success: the presentation you aced, the project you completed, the kudos you received. And don’t hesitate to seek endorsements or recommendations from colleagues, clients and suppliers; their words become your external validation. Remember, imposter syndrome thrives in the shadows, so shine a light on your achievements.
2. Replace Negative Thoughts with Better Ones
Challenge thoughts such as, ‘I am not good at anything.’ Instead, ask yourself to come up with three things you are good at.
Our minds are fertile ground for both weeds and flowers. Weed out the negativity. When that inner critic whispers, “You don’t belong,” counter it with, “I was chosen for this position; I didn’t slip through the cracks.” Flip the script: “I need to work harder” becomes “I have a strong work ethic.” Remember, you’re not an accidental tourist; you’re a deliberate traveller.
3. Define Success Clearly and Tangibly
People with imposter feelings endorse an all-or-nothing policy of success.
Let’s redefine success.
Celebrate the small wins—the code you debugged, the report you polished, the connection you forged. Success isn’t a monolith; it’s a mosaic of moments. And remember, it’s not just about work. Fulfillment beyond the office matters too. Family, hobbies, laughter—they all count. Success isn’t binary; it’s kaleidoscopic.
4. Seek a Mentor
I mention it frequently - a coach can be a game changer.
Having a seasoned guide who’s navigated storms and emerged wiser can be a tremendous ally. Choose wisely and carefully. The right coach will encourage you to build a new narrative, to take a daily dose of confidence, to become the best version of yourself.
I hope these tips support your personal journey, don't forget that it is just that...a journey.
My coach conversation? 5 years ago. And do I still experience those self doubt moments? Absolutely! Just nowhere near the level of intensity and frequency.
I am now stronger, more confident, and more self-assured. I'm living a new narrative, where my confidence paves the way to make impactful choices.
Top Tip
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I use Full Focus Planner. I use it to stay focused, reach my goals and track my accomplishment evidence.
