Overcoming Imposter Syndrome & Cultivating Career Confidence
Do you struggle with feeling equipped and capable in your role? Have you ever looked around at your colleagues and felt like you didn't belong or deserve to be in your position? If you've ever experienced these self-defeating thoughts, you aren't alone. More than half of women experience imposter syndrome at some point.
Imposter Syndrome consists of feelings of insecurity or inadequacy that make us doubt our capabilities and convinces us we don't deserve certain opportunities or success. This syndrome is no respecter of persons. Even executives, influencers, and celebrities struggle with believing they are worthy of their positions and success. Back in 2018, Michelle Obama told a group of students that imposter syndrome "never goes away." We experience it at all levels of life. Imposter Syndrome makes us believe that it doesn't matter how many promotions, rewards, or how much recognition we receive. Sooner or later, someone will figure out that we don't have what it takes. That's how imposter syndrome operates. It cripples our confidence in the strengths, skillsets, abilities, and hard work that got us to exactly where we are today. The truth is you've already been equipped and prepared to confidently carry out the work that you are called to do. So when imposter syndrome creeps up, here's how you can cultivate the confidence to put it back in its place.
Know your worth.
Confident women know the value they bring to the table because they are aware of the strengths, skills, and experiences that have gotten them there. If you're struggling with confidence, think about your current role and three to five of your previous accomplishments (pinpoint these accomplishments down to a certain instance rather than situations, projects, or roles that spanned several months/years).
Consider these coaching questions:
What strengths or skills were needed for you to succeed?
What did you see or do that others couldn't or wouldn't?
Oftentimes it is those unique strengths, skills, giftings, and experiences that qualify us. Have faith that you already possess what will enable you to succeed.
Set new goals (or pursue a new challenge).
When you are aware of your strengths and weaknesses, you can set goals or seek new challenges that will encourage your growth and development. When set with purpose, intention, and meaning, goals allow you to focus on taking the right steps that will get you closer to where you want to be. Cast the vision for your career. Then set three to five goals that you can take quick action on. Many times confidence comes from taking action on the things that matter most and will challenge us while moving us forward to our ultimate vision.
Learn a new skill.
There are times when confidence falters because there are weaknesses or areas that need to be further honed and developed. In this case, consider picking up a new skill to expand your capabilities and round out your areas of expertise. Attend a training to develop current or learn new skills. Consider taking a class and course in the area you would like to grow. When you can learn a new skill and apply it to your work, not only will you increase your confidence but also your productivity and ability to stay organized while conquering new tasks.
Seek feedback.
Sometimes we lack confidence because we lack the information or resources that will support our success. Don't be afraid to ask questions or ask for support. Make it a habit to ask one question during your team meetings or one-on-ones with your manager. Get out of your comfort zone by setting up a project planning meeting to gain clarity on any questions you may have that might be hindering your progress or success with certain projects or tasks. Sometimes we "have not because we ask not." Seeking feedback shows your proactiveness, which increases your team members, manager, and your confidence by proving that you are reliable and willing to take initiative and contribute in meaningful ways.
Hire a coach.
As you work toward developing your confidence, sometimes you need someone outside of yourself who can affirm you and validate your strengths. Working with a coach gives you confidence by establishing accountability and empowering you to walk in your purpose and pursue your goals. At The Purpose & Work Institute, we offer coaching programs designed to help when women gain the confidence to excel in their life, home, and career. For more information, click here to learn more.
Confidence is something that is cultivated and nurtured over time. Give yourself grace as you grow into the woman you've been created to be. Know that you already possess the strengths and inner qualities for who and where you are called to be, and for the areas that are lacking, you can hone them by developing new skills and knowledge. Set goals and pursue challenges that will uplevel your life and career, while seeking the feedback and support that will enable your success. If you need accountability, don't be afraid to hire a coach or enlist a friend that will hold you accountable to your purpose and goals. Sometimes a personal cheerleader is the confidence boost you need, reminding you that you have what it takes to succeed.
