rethinking imposter syndrome

I often hear people talk about suffering from imposter syndrome. But let's pause and dissect this for a moment.

Imposter syndrome often comes with a feeling of shame. It's that nagging feeling of, "There's something wrong with me for feeling like an imposter."

But here's a thought: what if we've been looking at it all wrong? What if, instead of labeling ourselves as 'suffering from imposter syndrome,' we reframe it as, "I’m having an experience of feeling like an imposter"?

This shift in language is powerful. It suggests that feeling like an imposter is temporary. More importantly, it separates our identity from the experience. You are not an imposter; you're simply someone who is navigating unfamiliar territory. This is a shared human experience. We've all been there, feeling out of our depth.

Remember, anytime you're learning something new, you cannot be an expert. You're in learning mode. It's impossible to be an expert and a learner simultaneously. So naturally, you'll feel like an imposter, especially when you're concerned about others' perceptions of you.

Admitting you don't know everything can feel vulnerable, but it's a hallmark of strong leadership. Great leaders acknowledge that they don't have all the answers. Sometimes, the essence of good leadership is not about having all the answers, but knowing the right questions to ask.  They lean on others, valuing expertise at every level of the organizational hierarchy.

This isn't just about vulnerability; it's about authenticity and strength. It's about creating a culture where learning and growth are valued over the pretense of knowing it all. So next time you feel like an imposter, remember, it's a sign that you're learning, growing, and most importantly, leading by example.

Your Turn
Imagine openly admitting that you don't have all the answers and are in the process of learning. How might your level of transparency impact your team? What kind of example are you setting? What kind of permission are you granting others by being so candid?