How Does Imposter Syndrome Limit Us Professionally?
In an increasingly hyperconnected world and society, in which the opinions of others are practically impossible to avoid, our work-related capabilities and behaviors are also subject to judgment. Professional expectations and standards seem to constantly increase, giving rise to an increasingly common psychological phenomenon: imposter syndrome.
This feeling, although experienced by more and more people, is often silent and destabilizing, undermining the confidence and self-esteem of those who experience it. And it is very difficult to avoid the feelings of impostor syndrome, as highly qualified professionals express; “You fight against it throughout your life and work experience.” Imposter syndrome affects all professions, and can have serious repercussions on the mental health of these people.
In this article, We will explore what impostor syndrome is and how it can be an invisible barrier that limits our professional potential Our main goal is to encourage self-reflection and realize that, just as imposter syndrome is born from our insecurity and false beliefs, we can deconstruct, dismantle it, and overcome it.
To begin with, it is important to clearly define what this psychological phenomenon is about. Impostor syndrome affects people of all ages, genders, and levels of experience in various professions, and is characterized by a persistent sense of doubt about one’s abilities and a constant fear of being discovered as a fraud. Those who experience it often attribute their successes to luck or external factors rather than recognizing their own abilities and efforts as the primary cause of their achievement.
Despite their high prevalence, many people who struggle with these beliefs tend to keep it a secret, fearing that if they admit their doubts, they will be perceived as incompetent or insecure. Actually, It is a common feeling among highly competent and perfectionist individuals meaning that even those who have a successful track record can be affected.
The characteristics of imposter syndrome can vary, but some of the common feelings and thoughts include:
The impact on professional career
Impostor syndrome, although in many cases it is an internal and silent phenomenon, can have a significant impact on a person’s professional career. Its effects can be subtle but harmful, limiting potential and growth in the workplace. The impact of imposter syndrome on your professional career can be:
1. Professional stagnation
imposter syndrome can lead to the avoidance of development and promotion opportunities People who feel like impostors often doubt their ability to take on more demanding roles, which can lead to career stagnation.
2. Work overload
Paradoxically, those affected by imposter syndrome often work harder to compensate for their supposed shortcomings. This work overload can lead to burnout and deterioration of physical and mental health
3. Fear of failure
People with imposter syndrome often fear failure and criticism. As a result, they may avoid taking career risks, which limits their growth and ability to learn from experience.
4. Low work self-esteem
Imposter syndrome can erode self-esteem in the workplace. Affected people may feel unsafe expressing their opinions or making important decisions which can lead to a lack of trust from colleagues and superiors.
Even when they receive recognition and praise, those who suffer from imposter syndrome may have difficulty accepting it and taking the credit they deserve. This can undermine your reputation and professional relationships.
6. Anxiety and stress
Impostor syndrome is often accompanied by anxiety and stress. These emotions can affect quality of life and performance at work, creating a vicious cycle of negativity
Overcome imposter syndrome
Despite the challenges it presents, imposter syndrome is something that can be overcome. In conclusion, here are some effective strategies and tips to help free yourself from limitations and achieve professional success:
1. Self-awareness
The first step to overcoming imposter syndrome is to recognize that you are experiencing it Self-awareness allows you to address your doubts and fears constructively.
2. Change your internal dialogue
Challenge your negative and self-critical thoughts. Replace self-criticism with positive statements about your abilities and achievements.
3. Learn to accept failure
Failure is a natural part of growth. Instead of fearing it, see failures as learning opportunities that will help you improve.
4. Set realistic goals
Define achievable goals and break your objectives into smaller, more manageable steps. This It will help you keep moving forward and gain confidence as you accomplish each step
5. Learn to receive praise
Learn to accept praise with gratitude instead of minimizing it. Learn to say “thank you” instead of “it was luck” and to understand and accept your abilities.
6. Update your skills
Continuous training and learning can increase your confidence in your skills and knowledge, making you feel competent and meeting the job expectations placed on you.
If imposter syndrome significantly affects your life and career, consider seeking help from a specialized therapist or counselor on this issue.
What should companies and team leaders do?
As we have seen, imposter syndrome not only harms the person who suffers from it directly; It also has a negative impact on companies, since it limits the learning and professional development of their workers, causing them to enter a vicious and self-sabotaging cycle. Therefore, it is key that organizations incorporate into their Human Resources programs a type of training that emphasizes the vulnerability of recognizing what we have left to learn in order to learn it By valuing diversity and considering mistakes as learning opportunities, companies can strengthen their adaptability and resilience.
In this sense, echoing the psychologist Carol Dweck, at the European School of Coaching we establish a distinction between fixed mindsets and growth mindsets. While the first can limit development, the second drives evolution through constant effort and training.
