✨ Leaning Into Impostor Syndrome ✨

For years, I thought I would defeat impostor syndrome. That if I worked hard enough, achieved enough, or proved myself enough, I would beat it.

📌 Reality check: Impostor syndrome was coined in 1976 (the term has been around nearly as long as I have walked this earth), and no one has beaten it yet. So why did I think I’d be the first?

Instead of fighting it, I’ve started leaning into it for what it actually is:

🔹 A sign of growth

🔹 A call for humility

🔹 An invitation to learn

💡 As Adam Grant’s calendar wisely reminds us today:

“Doubting yourself doesn’t mean you’re going to fail. It usually means you’re facing a new challenge and you’re going to learn.”

When I turned 40 I decided to shift my approach. Here’s how I have leaned into impostor syndrome without letting it hold me back:

✅ Reframe doubt as data. 🤔 If I’m feeling unsure, it’s often because I’m stepping into something new. This feeling of being unsure is not an indication of inadequacy or failure; rather, it serves as a vital sign of progress and personal growth. Each moment of doubt can be viewed as a valuable piece of information, providing insights into areas where I might need to gather more knowledge, refine my skills, or adjust my approach. By acknowledging that these feelings are part of the learning process, I can shift my perspective to see them as opportunities for development.

✅ Anchor in evidence. 🔍 I remind myself of past challenges I’ve overcome. The proof? I’ve succeeded before, and I can do it again. I reflect on the specific circumstances that once seemed daunting, the feelings of doubt that accompanied them, and the strategies I employed to overcome those hurdles. The proof lies not just in the successful outcomes but also in the lessons learned along the way.

✅ Take action anyway. 🚀 Growth doesn’t come from waiting until I feel ready. It comes from stepping forward despite the uncertainty. Every step taken, no matter how small, contributes to our overall journey of growth. By taking action, we open ourselves up to new experiences and opportunities that can lead to learning and improvement. The process of stepping forward, even when we feel unprepared, allows us to build resilience and adaptability. Each experience, whether it leads to success or failure, provides valuable lessons that shape our character and skills.

Impostor syndrome isn’t a sign that I don’t belong. It’s proof that I’m stretching into something bigger. I don't know about you but that's exactly where I want to be.

💬 Have you ever tried to fight impostor syndrome? What helps you lean into growth instead?

#Leadership #GrowthMindset #ImpostorSyndrome