All the self-doubt in our heads is turning around, self-questioning, feeling not good enough, and trying to do everything perfectly. The weight often comes from societal norms, expectations from women themselves and around them, gender biases at work, and the famous glass ceiling, which seems to be challenging to break as women have the need to prove themselves constantly. It is a significant burden on the shoulders of women leaders, as they need to juggle the workload and personal life more than men. Is it possible to overcome imposter syndrome at the workplace and as a woman leader?
Yes, it is, and it all starts with thyself. Here are some strategies that can be useful in combatting imposter syndrome.
Lets Understand Imposter Syndrome
Imposter syndrome is not a reflection of your capabilities but more of your self-perception, how you see yourself in the mirror, what you say to yourself, and this nagging inner self-talk.
That includes:
- I am not deserving this promotion or salary increase
- Attributing success to external factors and luck other than to your belief that you are capable of your skills
- The constant fear that you are not qualified enough
These pressures come from social expectations, perceptions, cultural backgrounds, and how we were raised. Stereotyping that leaders should be men rather than women—and believe me, this is still the case—is embedded in our subconscious mind.
I did a test using artificial intelligence, asking it to create an image of leaders. Guess what? It gave me the image of a man. So, even AI is biased.
The first step is to know what you believe as a woman leader and what you say to yourself, write it down so it is black and white in front of your eyes, and dismantle your mind. The first step is always to analyze ourselves.
The Impact of Imposter Syndrome
These aspects will hinder your promotion and how you are perceived as a leader by your team, peers, and senior leaders:
- Self-doubt: which can have a profound impact on your decision-making abilities
- The desire to be perfect, which will create an unnecessary burden on your shoulders that you need to excel in all aspects of your work and responsibilities
- Limiting yourself on opportunities and not going for the promotion, for the project, or on a short-term assignment
8 Strategies to Overcome Imposter Syndrome
Imposter syndrome is usual and occurs in every human. The important thing is to master and navigate these feelings so that they do not create obstacles in your growth and professional life.
1. Create a success journal
Write down what you have achieved during the day, the week, and your professional career. Acknowledge and be proud of yourself. When you write them down, it becomes obvious. Revisiting this journal will remind you of your capabilities.
2. Shift your inner self-talk
Catch yourself when you talk negatively and create your mantra or affirmation, which shall be in the present, “i” form, and positive. Repeat it to your mind repeatedly. Create a trigger that helps you be reminded that you are good enough. It can be an anchor, music, or an object.
3. Seek mentorship and support
Connect with other women leaders inside or outside the organization, listen to their stories, read books, or listen to podcasts. Here is an example of Michelle Obama (Former First Lady): In her memoir Becoming, Obama reveals moments when she felt like she didn’t belong, even in the White House, and shares how she pushed through those feelings to embrace her role fully. You will see you are not alone, and you can do it.
4. Be imperfectly perfect
You don’t need to, and you are not expected to be perfect in everything you do. You don’t need to know either. Delegate and ask for help and knowledge. An impactful leader does not need to know everything. Men certainly don’t know, either.
5. Celebrate small wins
Women never celebrate what we achieve and bring to the table. Celebrating increases and boosts self-confidence and projects a positive outlook.
6. Reframe failure
I have a saying: try fast, fail fast, and learn fast. Failure is an attempt that was not successful. Acknowledge it, own it, and learn from it. It is a growth opportunity rather than a failure.
7. Regulate your emotions
Be aware of them, and don’t take anything personally. Navigate your emotions skillfully and assertively. Leaders will have setbacks, but the important part is to bounce back and see what can be done differently. Change your perspective. The situation is the same; how you respond to it is the key.
8. Educate others about bias
Raise awareness. Talk about it, name it, and create a women’s leadership circle at the workplace. Educate men, talk to them. They sometimes don’t know how to treat and promote women. Let’s work together on an equal, inclusive, and fair environment where every human will thrive.
Overcome Imposter Syndrome as A Woman Leader
You have the unique perspective, resilience, and emotional intelligence that men might not have, which is needed in a diverse leadership team. These assets need recognition first from you and then from others.
Remember, you are not alone in this journey. By seeking support, challenging imposter syndrome, and celebrating your uniqueness, you can transform this into a source of empowerment. Leadership is not about being perfect. It is about being authentic, listening, showing kindness while being assertive, and knowing your strengths. It is about continuous learning and leading with purpose.
Claim your space at the table; you deserve it.
I would like to help you with personalized support and guidance to build your confidence and thrive in your career.
Just Reach out.