Rising leaders at work are supposed to have it all. They’re usually known as our greatest role models, our cheerleaders, and our educators. In some odd ways, they can even feel like family to us.
Above else, leaders are often those who inspire and guide us, and without them, teams and businesses simply wouldn’t exist. Throughout modern-day work culture, they are the ones who carry out goals and ensure entire organizations stay afloat.
And yet, while leaders exemplify those incredible qualities, behind them lies a dangerous phenomenon that many don’t always see: imposter syndrome.
The concept of imposter syndrome is easy. It’s defined as a psychological experience that causes individuals to feel doubtful and uncertain about their capabilities. Anyone can have imposter syndrome, but it is especially common among high-achieving and ambitious people.
Everyday, millions of Americans struggle to cope with imposter syndrome. With the traditional American ideals to consistently succeed, much of the workplace sees imposter syndrome firsthand. Studies show an estimated 82% of people struggle with it, making it one of the most prevalent conditions in the workplace industry.
While imposter syndrome is undeniably dominant, professionals like Prudence Hatchett, Leadership Resilience Strategist and Mental Wellness Specialist, warn it’s a dangerous mentality that not only fails you, but impedes everyday life in general.
“I see so many rising leaders who believe they don’t deserve the roles they have earned. Imposter syndrome shows up when you are stretching into something new, and it tricks you into thinking you are unqualified even when the evidence says otherwise,” Hatchett says.
Individuals are prone to imposter syndrome due to a combination of different factors. Between threats of perfectionism, high-pressure demands, and the need to compare to others, leaders find themselves under too many unrealistic expectations.
When leaders fall, it means they’re creating environments where everyone else feels the impact. If the head of the team is lacking confidence, employees might too feel the same, becoming unmotivated to progress and achieve.
Still, there’s a path forward. Recovery can look different for everyone, but at the root of it all, it begins with recognizing the strength that is already there.
Hatchett adds, “The way through it is not to chase perfection, but to take small wins seriously, reframe your inner dialogue, and lean on mentors or coaches who can reflect your strengths back to you. I remind people that confidence is built step by step, not overnight. When you stop waiting to feel ready and start acting with the tools you already have, that is when growth really happens.”
In essence, what Hatchett and many other experts believe is that the proof is in the strategy. Dealing with imposter syndrome might feel like a challenge, but it’s the proactive measures that can change it all. This could include specific efforts like:
- Gratitude lists: Regularly writing down what you’re thankful for and what you’ve accomplished. Over time, it retrains your brain to focus on the positives instead of automatically resorting to the negatives.
- Visualization: Picture yourself succeeding before you step into high-stake situations like presentations or meetings. When your mind rehearses this, you’ll feel the confidence.
- Mentors/coaches: Surround yourself with trusted people and don’t be afraid to seek support when you need it. They’ll be there to remind you of your worth when you’ve forgotten it.
- Positive feedback: Accept compliments and tell yourself you are doing great. Record the moments when you’ve received praise, but don’t let the inner doubt creep in.
Most of the time, imposter syndrome goes unnoticed. And the more it is left unresolved, the more power it gains over even the most capable professionals.
While leaders aren’t meant to be flawless, they are meant to own their struggles and voice their challenges. Though they may seem like those biggest supporters from the outside, it’s likely they’re going through something much deeper.
If you are a leader trapped under the dangers of imposter syndrome, this is your sign to start realizing your value. Because without you, the workplace will not survive.