by PRP Group, on 09/12/2022
With millions of women leaving the workforce, many who are still working are especially vulnerable to imposter syndrome.
For most of my professional career, I have worked in the high-tech industry with predominantly male leadership. I continue to be appreciative of the mentorship I’ve received over the years, but I would often follow that with self-comparison.
My mentors seemed so confident and self-assured, while I felt like I was faking my way through my career. For a long time, it caused me to become risk-averse for fear of looking stupid or embarrassed. I thought for sure these feelings would go away as I climbed the corporate ladder—but to my dismay, they only intensified.
Several years ago, I read a message from an employee who needed advice for overcoming “imposter syndrome.” Thuogh it was a term from the 1970s, I was unfamiliar with it, and was intrigued.
As I Googled, I learned that many high-achieving individuals doubt their own competence and feel like they are essentially an imposter in their own lives. It filled me with relief to learn my feelings had a name and other people also felt it.
After receiving coaching to help me overcome my imposter syndrome, I wanted to use my new-found knowledge to help others. I researched, studied, then began coaching, and it has been a privilege to watch others conquer this debilitating condition.
Here are five adjustments to consider making to address this syndrome.