Combatting Imposter Syndrome
Do you ever feel like you’re not good enough? That you’re not as good as other people and are going to be ‘found out’ at any moment?
Imposter Syndrome is where we are consumed with self-doubt and have a deep sense of insecurity. Telltale signs include anxiety, self-criticism, overworking, perfectionism, fear of failure, avoidance, procrastination the persistent inability to believe that your success is deserved or has been legitimately achieved as a result of your efforts. It is common in the workplace – around 70% of workers will have it at some point in their careers and it is believed to affect women more than men. A recent survey by KPMG found that 75% of female executives have experienced it. Some of the key characteristics of Imposter Syndrome include:
- Fear that you won’t live up to expectations
- Perfectionism
- Inability to realistically assess your competence and skills
- Berating your performance
- Attributing your success to external factors
- Being an overachiever
- Self-doubt
- Setting very challenging goals and feeling disappointed when you fall short
- Self-sabotaging
The Positive Psychology solution to overcome Imposter Syndrome draws on a range of evidence-based practices to build confidence, strengthen resilience and cement a positive sense of self.Coincidentally Miriam was asked to interview Dr Jessamy Hibberd, author of The Imposter Cure, at the Bath Festival. It turns out that Jessamy had been to see Miriam speak before writing The Imposter Cure! Highly recommended.
Please contact Miriam to find out more about coaching to overcome imposter syndrome and book a free chemistry call.
