Do you suffer from ‘Imposter Syndrome’?

Well, the answer is YES. At some point in our lives we all experience the feelings and thoughts that come with imposter syndrome. Examples could be:

• You have been asked to manage a project at work, but you have never had to manage a process or team of people previously.
• You are asked to present to a group of people on a specific topic. It’s your first time presenting.
• You have been asked to play with a group of A grade golfers in a comp, but you are not even a member of a club.

Three very different examples, but examples I have experienced. So let’s reframe the above:

• Your manager has noticed how well you work with your team, the respect they have for you and the knowledge you have on that specific topic.
• You immerse yourself in the topic every single day. It is your passion, your love. You undertake extensive research into the area and are seen as a ‘go to’ person in the space.
• You only play golf on a casual basis, but your underlying skillset is very strong. You are a consistent golfer and a calm golfer which keeps team mates focused and in control.

My clearest example is from several years ago when I was asked to do my first presentation to a group of people. Like I do, I did not start small. My introduction to public speaking was to nearly 300 people. Talk about nervous. Over time I became more confident, more comfortable and now I revel in the opportunity to be on stage in front of a group of people who want to learn.

It’s often about how you frame the opportunity or getting clarity on why you have been chosen. Everyone experiences imposter syndrome – business owners, athletes, celebrities.

Despite their fame, success, and public recognition, many celebrities and athletes grapple with feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy like you and I. Like anyone else, they may attribute their success to external factors, downplay their achievements, and compare themselves to their peers. They might fear that they aren’t as talented or deserving as their reputation suggests. Additionally, the highly competitive nature of the entertainment and sports industries can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy.

Moreover, the spotlight can magnify insecurities, and the constant need to meet the expectations of fans, critics, and industry professionals can be overwhelming.

How do we recognise the feelings?

1. Attributing success to luck, timing, or other external factors rather than recognising your own abilities. This can lead to a sense of unworthiness and doubt.
2. The fear of being ‘discovered’ as less competent or knowledgeable than you appear to be. This fear can be paralysing and hinder personal and professional growth.
3. Downplaying your successes. This can lead to a cycle of feeling unfulfilled and undervalued.
4. Constantly comparing yourself to your peers and feeling inadequate.

So how can we manage this?

1. Understand and acknowledge that imposter syndrome is a real thing and it affects many capable individuals. Another words, you are not alone.
2. Replace negative self-talk with positive affirmations. When you catch yourself attributing success to external factors or downplaying your accomplishments, consciously challenge these thoughts and remind yourself of your skills and abilities.
3. Share your feelings with trusted friends, family members, or a coach. They can offer perspective, validation, and encouragement.
4. Practice celebrating your accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. Keep a record of your successes and revisit them when self-doubt creeps in.
5. Be kind to yourself. Treat yourself with the same compassion and understanding that you would extend to a friend facing similar challenges. Recognise that it’s okay to not have all the answers.

Finally, a tool to use in the moment and in the lead up to the event. Practice ‘Box Breathing’. Google it and practice it. You want to be calm, relaxed and breathe in the moment.