Imposter Syndrome

Imposter Syndrome - it happens more often than you think. When it rears its ugly head, sometimes there is too much negativity built up to block it out.  

Here are some stats:

- 75% of female executives experience imposter syndrome at least once (KPMG study) 

- 70% of adults experience imposter syndrome at least once (Psychology Today)

- 1/3 of young people struggle with imposter syndrome (Harvard Business Review)

Our current job climate does not help alleviate the pressure of imposter syndrome, especially when some are looking for their next opportunity for a long time before landing an offer. Having to "sell yourself" to others while competing for a new job is stressful and takes a toll on your mental health. The amount of judgment tied to the job search process is truly overwhelming, and receiving rejection notifications chip away at your self-esteem. 

Then you get an offer and start a new job - but it feels like there is a cloud hovering over you. You feel like you’re doing your best at work or in life but never feel like you’re fully hitting the mark. You are your own worst critic, feeling like you’re working 2x as hard to prove yourself or obsess over small mistakes.  

You are not alone.  

Imposter Syndrome often results in self-sabotage. You talk yourself out of success before you get a chance to try. Failure becomes expected in your mind and that mindset is detrimental. 

Let me tell you the honest truth - You are valuable, impactful, and important. Let’s take some baby steps to reset your mindset around your success.  

1. Keep track of your wins. Each morning, write down or share at least one win from the previous day - personal or professional. Openly remind yourself of the triumphs you experienced and overcame. Don’t know who to share them with? My email is meg@odlc.info - email me your win(s) and I will celebrate with you!

2. Build a brag book. Think of it like a portfolio of your wins, accomplishments, and contributions. While it is something you can share with a prospective employer, make it for you. Read it on a regular cadence, add it to it as new wins emerge, and remind yourself of the impact you've proven to make time and time again. 

3. Allow yourself space and grace. Anyone who has worked with me knows I preach this a lot. It is OK to feel how you feel right now, and how you feel tomorrow is OK too. Allow yourself time to not be ok, but I encourage you to also think about the cost of inaction or change.  

I am offering free power coaching sessions through the end of July. If this topic hits home for you or if something else is standing in your way to becoming your best self, sign up here! https://calendly.com/meg-odlc/power-coaching-session