The Imposter Syndrome

“We Become What We Do” Seth Godin

The imposter syndrome identifies that there can be times where we struggle with being accurate, being authentic in acknowledging our own accomplishments, our own competence. With the imposter syndrome there can actually be an internal fear that we will be seen as deceiving others – as someone who doesn’t really have the skills and talents that we have been identified with. A person with impostor syndrome struggles with acknowledging just how competent they are, with feeling inadequate

In December 2019, a research article Prevalence, Predictors, and Treatment of Impostor Syndrome: a Systematic Review was published that looked at 62 different studies of over 14,000 participants looking at this idea of the imposter syndrome.  

“Each time I write a book, every time I face that yellow pad, the challenge is so great. I have written eleven books, but each time I think, ‘Uh oh, they’re going to find out now. I’ve run a game on everybody and they’re going to find me out.” Quote from Maya Angelou

 “We become what we do.” Seth Godin

Five actions that will move you away from falling prey to a misalignment with who you are and how you connect with your world. 

1.      I trust myself.

2.      I persist on the journey to grow and change

3.      I pursue an understanding of my daily action steps

4.      I give myself room to fail.

5.      I serve others without guarantee that my service will be recognized or appreciated. 

What is servant leadership? Robert Greenleaf

Resources:

Godin, S. (2020). The Practice: Shipping Creative Work. New York: Penguin Random House.

Maxwell, J (2000). Failing Forward, Turning Mistakes into Stepping Stones for Success. USA: Harper Collins

You can find me at www.healthyleadership.online