Sometimes, even though we've accomplished great things and have a ton of successes under our belt, it can seem like nothing is ever good enough. That's when Imposter Syndrome comes in - this psychological phenomenon keeps us from reaching the absolute pinnacle of our potential! It's especially common amongst the most driven high-achievers out there, so if you're feeling like an imposter, you're definitely not alone!

This blog explores what it is and what employees and employers can do to beat it.

How Does Imposter Syndrome Show Up?

One example of how Imposter syndrome show us is an employee getting a new job or a big promotion. The employee has been in interview mode and finally landed the job that they wanted. Once in the position, the employee begins to wonder if they are qualified for the job. They begin to have doubts about their capabilities and become afraid to ask questions because of fear of being “discovered”. As a result, the employee begins to feel anxious about their performance or self-conscious about their own abilities when compared to their peers or co-workers.

Another example of how this might show up is during a speaking engagement. For example, the individual could have been asked to speak at a conference. They were initially excited about the opportunity. But, after a while they start to look at the makeup of the audience or others who are also scheduled to speak and they begin to feel inferior even though they have the knowledge and experience required to be a speaker. 

What are the effects of Imposter Syndrome?

It is ironic that those suffering from Imposter Syndrome are typically high achievers. Unaddressed, Imposter syndrome can lead to poor mental and emotional well-being by causing individuals to second-guess their abilities and accomplishments. This self-doubt can result in feelings of inadequacy and low self-worth. It can even lead to stress and anxiety. In addition, individuals dealing with imposter syndrome may be more likely to engage in negative self-talk and compare themselves to others.

What can an individual do to address Imposter Syndrome?

There are several things that individuals can do to combat Imposter Syndrome:

1.      Take action: Instead of dwelling on your insecurities, take action by setting and working towards achievable objectives. Over time, this will help you gain a greater level of confidence in your abilities, ultimately overcoming imposter syndrome.

2.      Challenge negative thoughts: As you encounter imposter syndrome, you may become overly critical of yourself. Practice challenging these thoughts by reframing them positively and questioning their validity.

3.      Keep a record of your accomplishments: Documenting your greatest accomplishments can help you understand all your successes. Reflect on a few of them daily to counter any negative thoughts you might have about yourself.

4.      Practice self-love: Treat yourself with love, kindness, compassion, and understanding. Remember that everyone makes mistakes and endures moments of self-doubt.

5.      Learn to accept compliments: When we aren't used to receiving compliments, we may be put up a wall to reject them. Learn to accept these compliments without judgment. Never consider them luck or outside factors and avoid the urge to place your success on external factors.

6.      Focus on the process, not just the outcome: Rather than focusing only on the result, focus on achieving at every step in the process. This can help shift your focus away from self-doubt and buying into the imposter syndrome.

How can corporations address Imposter Syndrome in their employees?

Corporations can address imposter syndrome as a part of their Corporate Wellness program. Doing so can have a significant impact on overall employee well-being. Imposter Syndrome can impact the physical and emotional health of workers. Imposter syndrome can cause feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and weakness in workers, which can lead to stress and burnout. These will ultimately impact the employee’s ability to contribute to the organization and can impact productivity. 

Companies can assist their workforce with imposter syndrome by disseminating tools and knowledge to their employees on the topic, for example, they can conduct workshops or webinars about how to recognize and manage impostor syndrome. Further mentorship or coaching might be made available to employees who are experiencing the syndrome.

In addition, encouraging open communication and feedback, where employees feel comfortable communicating with their supervisors or coworkers, will help amend impostor syndrome. In this way, companies can set up a supportive and stimulating environment for employees, where they can develop and improve their capacities.

In conclusion, Imposter syndrome can be a difficult thing to manage and, if left unchecked, can rob employees of their creative potential, stifle their career growth and their sense of professional fulfillment. Fortunately, there are strategies that managers and employers can use to help employees struggling with impostor syndrome, such as providing feedback and reassurance, building meaningful connections with coworkers, and recognizing important accomplishments. With the right tools and support in place, employers can give their employees the tools they need to challenge their negative thoughts and ultimately overcome imposter syndrome.

Don't let impostor syndrome hold you or your employees back! Our corporate wellness program is here to help you take control of overwhelming feelings and lead a happier and healthier life. Contact us for more information.