The idea of imposter syndrome — the feeling of not belonging or a feeling that you are inadequate — is common today. It’s especially common among highly successful people starting a new task or role, learning and development (L&D) leaders included. To overcome imposter syndrome, you must first understand that imposter syndrome itself is not real.
A “syndrome” refers to something that is chronic and ongoing. It is always present and valid, no matter the situation. Imposter syndrome is not a syndrome because it is not a chronic condition, but rather an acute condition that comes and goes depending on the role or task at hand. The feeling of inadequacy is real, and we shouldn’t dismiss the feeling of being underqualified. You will feel moments of inadequacy throughout your career. That is a part of having a growth mindset and pushing yourself to new limits.
Recognizing that these feelings are temporary versus a chronic condition is essential to overcoming the feeling of inadequacy. Here are some tools to overcome those feelings and redirect yourself to accomplishing your goals as a learning leader.
Feelings Are Real
Feelings are real, and honoring how you feel is vital to overcoming those feelings of inadequacy. It is vital to understand that facts carry more weight than your feelings but also that you have a right to feel a certain way. Honor the feelings and move on to examining the facts.
Facts Matter
Understand that facts and deliverable results matter more than your feelings. List the accomplishments that you have achieved since the start of this stretch moment. Documenting success will frame your perspective in reality rather than framing your success through an emotive lens.
Celebrate Success
After documenting your facts, take time to celebrate your successes. This will reframe your thinking and move you from feeling inadequate to feeling accomplished.
Perfectionism Is Not the Expectation
You must dismiss the idea that perfection is the goal. Striving for perfection prevents execution and the iterations that morph a good idea into a great one. The goal should be to deliver a training solution while knowing that the solution will need to be refined and reiterated to reach the desired outcome. Striving for perfection prevents this evolution of an idea to a functional solution that improves business outcomes.
Respect Yourself
Other people respect you, which is why you are in your role or involved in a new task or project. You would not be here if others did not respect you and your abilities. Demonstrate respect in your self-talk. Keep your mind positive, and know that perfection is not the goal. The goal is to move forward, so continue giving yourself the positive self-talk that will move you forward.
Celebrate Failure
If you are not failing, you are not aggressive enough in searching for innovative solutions that drive change. Your ideas should push the status quo, and they should be challenging. Knowing that it is expected that there will be failure. This failure is essential for growth, so celebrate the failure and move on. This is where key learning happens.
In Conclusion
Remember: Imposter syndrome is not real. You belong at the table, and you must believe that yourself, first and foremost. Feeling inadequacy is natural in stretch moments where you are pushing yourself. This is where you begin to grow and expand yourself. Embrace the discomfort and move through it as you focus on achieving results. Keep your self-talk positive and celebrate the success and failure on your growth journey.
So, do not refer to yourself as having “imposter syndrome.” When you start verbalizing that idea, it may very well become a piece of your self-identity. However, your identity should be rooted in a growth mindset rather than a deficit mindset where a chronic condition keeps you from realizing your full potential.
