As a leader, it’s natural to have moments of self-doubt and insecurity. However, sometimes these feelings can escalate into what is known as imposter syndrome, a feeling of unworthiness or inadequacy despite evidence of success. If you’ve ever felt like an imposter at work, you’re not alone. In fact, research shows that imposter syndrome is common among high-achieving individuals.
Here are seven ridiculous reasons you might feel like an imposter at work, and how to overcome them:
You don’t have a fancy degree: It’s easy to feel like you don’t belong or aren’t qualified if you don’t have a prestigious degree. However, it’s important to remember that a degree is just one aspect of your education and experience. Your skills, knowledge, and work ethic are just as important, if not more so.
You’re not an expert in your field: No one knows everything, and it’s impossible to be an expert in every aspect of your field. Don’t let your lack of knowledge in certain areas hold you back. Instead, embrace the opportunity to learn and grow.
You’re not as experienced as your colleagues: It’s natural to compare yourself to others, but it’s important to remember that everyone has their own journey and pace. Don’t let your lack of experience hold you back; instead, use it as motivation to work harder and learn more.
You don’t have all the answers: As a leader, it’s natural to feel pressure to have all the answers. However, it’s important to remember that it’s okay to not know everything and to ask for help when you need it.
You’re not as confident as you’d like to be: Confidence is an important quality in a leader, but it’s important to recognize that it’s something that can be developed and improved upon. Don’t let a lack of confidence hold you back; instead, work on building your self-esteem and learning to trust in your abilities.
You’re afraid of failure: Everyone experiences failure at some point, and it’s important to recognize that it’s a natural part of the learning and growth process. Don’t let the fear of failure hold you back; instead, use it as an opportunity to learn and improve.
You’re not sure if you belong: It’s easy to feel like an imposter if you don’t feel like you fit in or belong. However, it’s important to remember that everyone has their own unique strengths and abilities, and it’s okay to be different.
If you’re struggling with imposter syndrome, it’s important to remember that these feelings are normal and common. The most important thing is to recognize these feelings and work on combating them.
Lead From Within: The best leaders work on overcoming the imposter within, so they can become the successful leaders they are meant to be.
#1 N A T I O N A L B E S T S E L L E R
The Leadership Gap
What Gets Between You and Your Greatness
After decades of coaching powerful executives around the world, Lolly Daskal has observed that leaders rise to their positions relying on a specific set of values and traits. But in time, every executive reaches a point when their performance suffers and failure persists. Very few understand why or how to prevent it.
Additional Reading you might enjoy:
- 12 Successful Leadership Principles That Never Grow Old
- A Leadership Manifesto: A Guide To Greatness
- How to Succeed as A New Leader
- 12 of The Most Common Lies Leaders Tell Themselves
- 4 Proven Reasons Why Intuitive Leaders Make Great Leaders
- The One Quality Every Leader Needs To Succeed
- The Deception Trap of Leadership
Of Lolly’s many awards and accolades, Lolly was designated a Top-50 Leadership and Management Expert by Inc. magazine. Huffington Post honored Lolly with the title of The Most Inspiring Woman in the World. Her writing has appeared in HBR, Inc.com, Fast Company (Ask The Expert), Huffington Post, and Psychology Today, and others. Her newest book, The Leadership Gap: What Gets Between You and Your Greatness has become a national bestseller.