You Can Overcome Imposter Syndrome And Thrive
Imposter Syndrome—a term coined in the late 1970s—is a secret challenge that plagues even the most accomplished business leaders and executives. Characterized by persistent self-doubt and an internal fear of being exposed as a fraud despite evident success, imposter syndrome can stifle growth, creativity, and confidence.
For business executives facing important decisions and constant scrutiny, the effects of imposter syndrome can intensify, impacting personal performance, organizational outcomes, and one’s sense of well-being. The good news is that imposter syndrome is manageable. By understanding its origins and applying targeted strategies, professionals can not only overcome these feelings but also thrive in their leadership roles.
Hattem Advisors helps business leaders understand the root causes of imposter syndrome and how it impacts their organization, provides actionable strategies for conquering it, and reveals how executive coaching can serve as a critical tool in this process. If you or someone in your organization is working to overcome imposter syndrome, this post is for you.
What is Imposter Syndrome?
Imposter syndrome refers to the persistent belief that one’s success is undeserved or achieved through luck, rather than competence or skill. While there are many variations on imposter syndrome, the simple fact is that it is irrational, despite a long list of objective accomplishments and external validation, those experiencing imposter syndrome often feel inadequate or unqualified.
For business executives, these feelings frequently manifest in negative performance, an eagerness to please, procrastination, and indecisiveness in high-pressure situations, often where the stakes are high. Perhaps even worse is the personal toll it takes on the executive, leading to anxiety and even depression. Imposter syndrome doesn’t discriminate based on success or experience—industry icons, from CEOs to celebrated creatives, have publicly shared their own struggles with imposter syndrome.
Signs and Behaviors of Executive Imposter Syndrome
Some common signs of imposter syndrome among executives include:
- Downplaying achievements despite accolades or clear contributions.
- Attributing success exclusively to external factors such as timing, luck, or others’ efforts.
- Feeling a need to work harder than others to “prove yourself.”
- Avoiding decision-making and new challenges for fear of failing.
- Experiencing self-doubt before meetings or presentations.
- Seeking frequent validation and approval from others.
- Comparing oneself unfavorably to peers, even in the face of evidence that contradicts these perceptions.
- Experiencing “free-floating” anxiety about being exposed as a “fraud” and disappointing supporters and loved ones.
Recognizing these signs is often the first step toward tackling imposter syndrome and addressing its impact on leadership performance.
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Personal Strategies
Dave Hattem of Hattem Advisors has proven personal strategies to help confront and overcome imposter syndrome. The following are some effective, actionable approaches to consider:
1. Acknowledge and Validate Feelings
Imposter syndrome thrives in secrecy. Shining a light on these feelings by acknowledging that they exist—and that they’re common among high-achievers—can help normalize the experience and, most importantly, prompt action to deal with it.
2. Focus on Evidence of Competence
When self-doubt creeps in, rely on facts as the antidote to irrational fears. Review past projects, feedback, and measurable outcomes that demonstrate your skills and abilities. Evidence-based reflection can challenge distorted perceptions created by imposter syndrome.
3. Reframe Negative Thoughts
Internal narratives play a powerful role in shaping perception. Work to identify and reframe self-critical thoughts with realistic, positive affirmations. For example, swap “I just got lucky” for “Another accomplishment in my track record of success.” In other words, flip the script of your internal narrative from imposter to being a well-deserved success story.
4. Celebrate Your Wins
It’s easy to minimize accomplishments, especially when imposter syndrome clouds your judgment. Enjoy the moment and start keeping a mental or physical “success journal” where you document achievements, big and small. Reflecting on these successes, especially in times of self-doubt, can build confidence and counter insecurities.
5. Practice Self-Compassion
Be kinder to yourself. We are all imperfect, and even the best and most seasoned executives make mistakes and decisions that just do not pan out as anticipated or, in hindsight, are just plain wrong. They’re an inevitable part of learning and growth and what makes us human. Practice forgiving yourself for imperfections and, importantly, move on.
6. Seek Mentorship and Support
Find trusted mentors or colleagues who can provide guidance, share their own experiences, and offer a different perspective. Discussing imposter syndrome with others often reveals that you’re not alone in feeling this way.
Imposter Syndrome Solutions: The Role of a Coach
While personal strategies are critical, sometimes overcoming imposter syndrome requires professional guidance. An experienced coach can make the difference in tackling executive imposter syndrome, especially when it has been an unshakeable condition.
Here’s how a coach can provide support and results-oriented strategies for executives dealing with self-doubt:
- Acknowledging and validating feelings
- Identifying root causes
- Focusing on evidence-based success
- Challenging negative self-talk
- Providing an objective touchstone
- Encouraging confidence, action, and decision-making.
- Setting realistic goals and following up in a consistent manner
A Personal Approach to Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
With over 30 years in organizational leadership, including serving as Chief Legal Officer for a Fortune 500 company, Dave Hattem has seen firsthand how imposter syndrome affects business executives at every stage in their careers.
Through tailored executive coaching, he has successfully helped dozens of professionals redefine their inner narratives and achieve higher levels of confidence and competence.
Hattem Advisors specializes in Context Coaching—a personalized, trust-based approach that takes into account the individual story of each executive and the unique challenges they face in their organization. This method is particularly effective for those who may be underrepresented or lack experience in navigating complex organizational structures.
Contact Hattem Advisors for Coaching to Work With Imposter Syndrome
Imposter syndrome doesn’t have to define your career or leadership. By acknowledging your feelings, building evidence of your capabilities, and seeking experienced guidance when needed, you can overcome self-doubt and unlock your full potential.
If imposter syndrome is holding you back, consider engaging with Hattem Advisors. Taking control of your narrative is the first step toward piercing the cloud of self-doubt and thriving as a business leader. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
