Imposter Syndrome

A phrase that resonates with so many of us, a gnawing doubt that whispers, "You don't belong here." I've grappled with it myself, given keynotes on the subject and seeing the incredible interest in this topic, I want to share my journey and insights on why it's time to tackle this issue head-on.

Understanding Imposter Syndrome

Imposter Syndrome is that nagging feeling that you're not good enough, that you're a fraud. It's the relentless self-doubt that can paralyze even the most accomplished individuals. You might find yourself procrastinating on important tasks or hesitating to speak up in meetings, fearing that your contributions won't measure up. Sound familiar?

But here's the paradox: When we fear being "found out," we inadvertently become imposters, adopting masks and personas to fit in. We hide our quirks, fears, and vulnerabilities, trading authenticity for a facade of success. It's a survival instinct, a way to navigate a world that often tells us we don't belong.

The Power of Authenticity

Yet, there's a profound truth here: Not being 100% authentic does not equal being fake. Our desire to belong and adapt is fundamentally human, a response to a society that has historically marginalized different voices and perspectives. Whether you're a woman, a person of color, LGBTQ+, or simply feel out of place in certain settings, the pressure to conform is real.

I've been there, contorting myself to fit a mold that wasn't mine. I've changed how I speak, how I dress, and even what food I would bring in my lunchbox to avoid standing out. But it ate away at me, and I realized it was time to embrace my authenticity.

For instance, I'm a high school dropout, a fact I used to hide in shame. Now, I celebrate it because it speaks to my resilience and ability to learn on the fly. I mean, if I managed to get this far in my career and good at what I do just by learning as I go, then my potential must be immense. The lesson here is clear: As long as you are true to yourself, you are not an imposter. If a space can't accommodate your authentic self, it's not an inclusive place, and that's their problem, not yours.

Strategies for coping with Imposter Syndrome

  • Set Goals: For the times when you don’t believe in yourself - believe in the facts. Define who you are, your core values, and what you want to achieve. Stick to your principles and celebrate your consistency.

  • Build a Supportive Network: Seek out friends and mentors who uplift you during moments of self-doubt. 

  • Source Check Yourself: Question the origins of your doubts. Who benefits from you thinking you're an imposter?

  • The "Taking out the Trash" Technique: Treat negative thoughts like garbage. Examine them objectively, then discard what doesn't serve you and put them in the right bin so your brain can be a beautiful and sustainable place.

But here's where my perspective diverges from the usual advice: We need to shift the focus from fixing individuals to addressing the root causes. Imposter Syndrome thrives in environments where people feel excluded. Instead of teaching individuals how to cope, we must create workplaces where everyone feels valued and heard.

Inclusive Leadership and Psychological Safety

Many people feel like imposters because society has conditioned them to believe they don't belong. As leaders, we have a responsibility to prove that notion wrong. Inclusivity is the antidote to Imposter Syndrome.

As a manager or founder, you shape your company's culture. To combat Imposter Syndrome within your team:

  • See People: Be present, communicate clearly, and provide opportunities for growth. Encourage individuals to lead and shine without self-censorship.

  • Recognize the Power of Soft Skills: Don't prioritize hard skills over qualities like empathy, teamwork, and supportiveness. Invest in people with potential and a commitment to your team's culture.

Embrace Authenticity, Create Inclusion

In conclusion, Imposter Syndrome is a pervasive issue, but it's not a personal failing. It's a symptom of a society that has historically marginalized certain groups. It's time for us to reject the idea that individuals must shoulder the burden of overcoming it alone.

By embracing our authenticity, supporting one another, and fostering inclusive workplaces, we can dismantle the root causes of Imposter Syndrome. Remember, you can't be an imposter when you're being yourself. And when you stop being yourself, that's when the real imposters emerge.

Let's build a world where authenticity is celebrated, where everyone belongs, and where Imposter Syndrome becomes a relic of the past. Together, we can make it happen, and if you want to talk more about this important topic and see how you can raise it in your organisation, get in touch!


Nadine Bergquist

Value-driven leader with long experience within Branding, Marketing, PR and Communications in international companies as well as from co-founding non- profit organization Rosenlundstödet. Creative and data driven, perpetually positive and a sucker for connecting with people.

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