Know Thy Enemy

The term "imposter syndrome" was first introduced by clinical psychologists Pauline Rose Clance and Suzanne Imes in 1978. It describes a cognitive distortion that leads individuals to feel anxiety and a lack of recognition for their achievements, despite clear evidence of their success. Those affected often struggle to view their situations objectively, unfairly evaluating themselves even when they are high achievers.

Reflecting on our younger, less experienced selves, we often wear masks to navigate unfamiliar environments. As T.S. Eliot poignantly noted in "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock":

There will be time, there will be time

To prepare a face to meet the faces that you meet;

How many roles do we adopt daily? Are we always presenting our true selves in every interaction? Likely not. Subtle shifts in demeanor and exaggerated traits often grease the wheels of social interactions.

Individuals grappling with imposter syndrome may exhibit one or more of the following traits:

• Self-doubt
• Downplaying personal contributions
• Attributing success to luck or external factors
• Undermining personal achievements
• Setting unattainable goals
• Chronic anxiety about meeting expectations
• Burnout

How do you resonate with these descriptions?

Hmm, I thought so.

Moving on...

Types of Imposter Syndrome

Dr. Valerie Young, in her book "The Secret Thoughts of Successful Women: And Men," identifies five distinct types of imposter syndrome:

• The Perfectionist
• The Superwoman/Man
• The Natural Genius
• The Soloist
• The Expert

Details of each type are illustrated in the infographic below.

Understanding which type of imposter syndrome you’re facing can illuminate the emotions at play. Perhaps you are a Perfectionist, terrified of losing control. Or maybe you are a Natural Genius or Soloist, afraid of failure and reluctant to seek help. If you identify as an Expert, you might feel inadequate or out of place. It’s easy to lose oneself in work as a means of distraction. I know I have fallen into that trap without realizing it.

As T.S. Eliot reminds us:

And time yet for a hundred indecisions,

And for a hundred visions and revisions,

Before the taking of a toast and tea.

Yes, skipping meals and getting ensnared in endless cycles of chaos and decision-making is more common than one might think.

How to Confront Imposter Syndrome

In "Othello," Shakespeare's Iago claims he will whisper toxic thoughts into Othello’s ear, gradually consuming him from within.

I’ll pour this pestilence into his ear. (Act 2, Scene 3)

Similarly, imposter syndrome can stem from our internal saboteurs whispering damaging messages, eroding our self-worth. We live in fear of exposure and reputational damage.

Reputation, reputation, reputation! Oh, I have lost my reputation! (Act 2, Scene 3)

Iago, despite being a schemer, had insights to share. Reputation can be a misleading construct, often acquired without merit and lost unjustly.

Reputation is an idle and most false imposition... (Act 2, Scene 3)

Shakespeare recognized negative self-talk even in his time. Acknowledging these destructive voices is the first step towards combating the self-sabotage that imposter syndrome fosters. Positive intelligence assessments can help identify which internal saboteurs are affecting you.

Awareness is crucial.

Once you’ve recognized these patterns, it’s essential to evaluate your situation objectively and reframe your narrative. Focus on your true competencies instead of perceived shortcomings.

A slight touch of imposter syndrome can actually be beneficial; it can signify that you are venturing into new territory and challenging yourself. Remember, your identity transcends your professional role.

In my view, who you are is defined by your approach to life. Contexts may shift, but your problem-solving skills and response to challenges remain constant.

Leaders often face imposter syndrome, perhaps more frequently than one might assume. As they navigate complex issues, they learn to manage the emotions that accompany such challenges.

Should we strive for perfection or embrace the journey of growth? I choose growth and the pursuit of new challenges. We should aspire to become expert learners.

I’ve encountered educators who fear losing authority or not having all the answers, worried their students might see them as imposters. I reassured them that their role is not to possess all knowledge but to exemplify what it means to be an expert learner and create enriching learning experiences.

If they value growth in their students, they should embody that ethos.

Aim to cultivate the confidence to embrace personal development. The things we avoid often return to haunt us. Confront your insecurities head-on.

Take actionable steps to address them.

Progress and self-improvement help bridge the gap between feeling like an imposter and realizing your envisioned self. Patience and consistency are key.

There are many events in the womb of time which will be delivered. (Act 1, Scene 1)

Expose your saboteurs to the light and watch them retreat into their shadows.

If after every tempest come such calms,

May the winds blow till they have waken’d death! (Act 2, Scene 1)

Let’s welcome challenges and grow from them. Remove your mask, embrace discomfort, and understand that this signifies your growth.

References

Clance, P.R. and Imes, S.A., 1978. The imposter phenomenon in high achieving women: Dynamics and therapeutic intervention. Psychotherapy: Theory, research & practice, 15(3), p.241.

Eliot, T.S., 1915. The love song of J. Alfred Prufrock. Poetry, 6(3), pp.130–135.

Shakespeare, W., 1603. Othello.

Young, V., 2011. The Secret Thoughts of Successful Women: And Men: Why Capable People Suffer from Impostor Syndrome and How to Thrive In Spite of It. Currency.