Hug Your Imposter
There is one thing that I want you to know about imposter syndrome.
There is one thing that I want you to know about imposter syndrome.
If you feel unsure of yourself, like you’re not deserving of your role or recognition, that you should “just know” the answer to questions that seem impossible, worried that your true incompetence will be discovered and your cover blown… know that you are not alone.
Your mentor has it. Your manager has it. I have the hell out of it. It’s been such a struggle for me to overcome it that it nearly ended my career.
I have talked to people at all levels in all walks of life who have it.
I have talked to a dentist who had it. I talked to an emergency room physician who literally looked over her shoulder to make sure nobody was listening when she confessed it.
Senior executives have it. Junior executives have it. Graduate students, junior High School students, and kindergarten students all have it.
Leaders: Admit that you have imposter syndrome to your teams. Team members: Talk to your peers and managers about it. You’re sending a signal that you’re capable of introspection, humility, and personal growth.
In my experience, you’ll also invite kindness and empathy from people, which is what we all really need right now.
A final observation: Imposters are among the most lovable people on the planet. They are by definition someone who wants to be better than they think they are.
They need our love and our support. When we give them our empathy, we’re putting it to work where it’s needed most.
Imposters: When it’s hard to love yourself, try loving one another.
Hug an imposter today!