Of all the psychological limitations and mindset issues that affect us as human beings, impostor syndrome is probably one of the most damaging, especially for business leaders. If unrecognised – as it frequently is – and unaddressed, impostor syndrome can undermine a leader’s self-confidence, abilities, and effectiveness. In this article, we’ll look at the worrying prevalence of impostor syndrome among managers and even senior business leaders, and provide practical strategies to combat it, cultivating self-assured and competent leaders.
What is Impostor Syndrome?
Impostor syndrome manifests differently from person to person, but at its core, it involves persistent self-doubt and the feeling of being a fraud—despite clear and tangible evidence of success. Leaders with impostor syndrome might dismiss their achievements, attributing them to timing, luck, or external factors rather than their own ethical skills, and they may be haunted by feelings of inadequacy, and anxiety about being exposed as a fake, and be subject to relentless self-criticism. Over time, this can increase the risk of anxiety and stress-related disorders, and make people reluctant to take on new opportunities.
Strategies for Overcoming the Impostor Syndrome and Developing Confidence as a Leader:
1. Cognitive Restructuring
‘Cognitive restructuring’ is a powerful psychological training strategy that intentionally confronts and reshapes restrictive thought patterns. It begins by encouraging individuals to be mindful of instances of self-doubt and unrealistic expectations – which often fuel a sense of personal or professional inadequacy. Then, by actively challenging these thoughts whenever they arise and replacing them with a positive and evidence-based affirmation, leaders can begin to shift their mindset over time.
2. Seeking Mentorship
An experienced mentor can bring valuable insights, perspective, and experience to leaders struggling with impostor syndrome. The mentor becomes a trusted guide or confidante, providing advice through the individual’s professional and personal challenges. Individuals can ask their mentor for specific feedback about strengths or areas for growth, and the mentor might also share wisdom derived from their personal experiences, suggest strategies and give encouragement, helping leaders to view their achievements and abilities in a more objective light.
3. Creating a Supportive Organisational Culture
Creating an organisational culture that actively addresses impostor syndrome at a collective level is also important. Celebrating individual and team achievements helps ensure that all contributions are openly acknowledged and valued. In a culture of open communication, in which discussions about self-doubt and inadequacy are normalised and welcomed, people with impostor syndrome realise that they are not alone, reducing feelings of isolation and helping them to overcome self-limiting beliefs and unhealthy behavioural patterns.
Leadership Development Training for Managers, and Why it Matters
Leadership development training for managers can help your leadership team to overcome imposter syndrome and other negative or self-limiting beliefs so that they can develop themselves and their reports to their full potential.
Contact GRA today to find out how our targeted development training programmes can help you address specific mindset issues within your organisation, including impostor syndrome. You can call us directly on 01962 779911, or request to speak to one of our specialist team by clicking here.
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