Impostor Syndrome: How Leadership Development Can Help Leaders Feel Like Leaders
Impostor Syndrome: How Leadership Development Can Help Leaders Feel Like Leaders
Alexa, show us #ImpostorSyndrome in a picture (source @Gaohmee)
Have you ever experienced “impostor syndrome”? You’re not alone.
A 2020 study from KPMG on Advancing the Future of Women in Business found that 75% of female executives across all industries experienced impostor syndrome in their careers.
Defined by feelings of inadequacy, chronic self-doubt, and a nagging sense of being a “fraud,” impostor syndrome can persist despite all logical evidence to the contrary. And while it may be disproportionately prevalent in women, studies have shown that it can impact almost anyone.
First, it’s important to understand that impostor syndrome is not reflective of outward success, ability or effort. In fact, impostor syndrome is most closely associated with perfectionism and is commonly seen in high-achieving people. You might be surprised to know that many business leaders experience impostor syndrome. Left unchecked, it can result in:
Consistently downplaying accomplishments and feeling unable to enjoy them.
Avoiding feedback and opportunities for growth.
Inability to delegate or ask for help.
Decision fatigue and risk aversion.
Diminished productivity.
Burnout from overwork and stress.
If you suffer from impostor syndrome, the good news is that you can get outside support to help you tackle the experience. Here are five ways leadership development coaching can help employees overcome impostor syndrome-and become more authentic leaders.
Leaders may not even be aware they’re suffering from impostor syndrome
The first steps to addressing any obstacle is to identify that it exists. But, unfortunately, impostor syndrome isn’t always easy to recognize on your own. You may have been dealing with it for so long you’ve learned to create workarounds (like perfectionism) to hide behind. A coach can offer perspective and insight that helps you address what’s really going on.
Constructive feedback empowers leaders to change the things they can change
Part of the challenge of impostor syndrome is that it can become really difficult to accept feedback when you’re constantly fighting feelings of uncertainty and insecurity. However, leaders need to be able to see the opportunities in feedback (and even failure).
A good coach will know how to provide you feedback with respect, clarity and insight. And when you have true clarity on your strengths and opportunities for improvement, you’re grounded in reality- and that’s the first step in overcoming feelings of impostor syndrome.
Fix your inner narrative
At its core, impostor syndrome is about how you talk to yourself. Left unchecked, that inner narrative can wreak havoc on your self-esteem and self-confidence. A coach can help you get your inner narrative in balance and, if needed, work with you to replace negative self-talk with empowering and affirmative thoughts.
Support new leaders
Leaders are asked to support everyone on their team-but who supports them?
Being in a leadership position does not make you immune to the human need for support. With a coach, leaders can build a safe space to share experiences, ask questions and brainstorm solutions with someone who is truly invested in their personal growth. This can be particularly important for early-stage leaders who have recently started a new role, as impostor syndrome is more likely to strike when professional stakes change.
Create a better workplace culture
Leaders suffering from impostor syndrome can unknowingly negatively impact their workplace culture. Decision fatigue, burnout and perfectionism at the leadership level can be difficult for other employees to navigate. When leaders have the courage to address impostor syndrome, be vulnerable and invest in their professional growth, it gives everyone in the workplace permission to do the same.
It’s time to leave the impostor syndrome behind and embrace our potential and our flaws.
The expert coaches at Cenera have decades of experience building coaching relationships grounded in mutual trust, empowering insights and constructive feedback. We specialize in working with employees at all levels, including helping leaders acknowledge and address obstacles like impostor syndrome that are keeping them from their full potential. Contact us to learn more about our Coaching program.
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