Imposter Syndrome in Leadership: Practical Solutions

One place I would love to visit one day is Parc Güell in Barcelona, Spain and see for myself its vibrant mosaic walls and benches that make the landscape breathtakingly beautiful (or so I hear!). I've been told that it is not only a stunning visual experience for its visitors, but it also provides an iconic view of the city - a place where the most aesthetic, panoramic pictures of the city can be taken. With mosaics, I am usually most in awe of how the artist can take and bend various, often small pieces of material to create one cohesive and visually amazing piece, achieving a beautiful balance between the part and the whole of the artwork. 

What I find to be so interesting though is how we can appreciate the parts and the whole of a wonderfully crafted mosaic but when it comes to ourselves as women it's extremely challenging to appreciate every piece of our own "life mosaic."

‍Rather than seeing the beauty in each skill or achievement, we often allow imposter syndrome to cause us to concentrate on the "gaps between the pieces" rather than the whole picture that makes up who we are.

As a licensed mental health professional, I have had the opportunity to work with many high achieving women who, though successful, battle imposter syndrome on a daily basis, clinging to this chronic fear of being caught and exposed as a "fraud in their industry." It is especially common among women leaders, where cultural norms, childhood experiences, or systemic oppression can make the feeling of inadequacy even more overwhelming. But don't worry I come bearing good news! Imposter syndrome is manageable and beatable. 

As you may know, imposter syndrome is not a passing feeling of uncertainty but rather a recurring tendency to think that one does not deserve to be where she is. For female leaders like yourself, these feelings are often intensified by gender biases and the expectation that women must excel to this unattainable standard. As many of us know from personal experience, if imposter syndrome goes unaddressed, it can lead to self-doubt and potentially prevent career advancement.

‍The first step in overcoming imposter syndrome is knowing what it is.

‍Imposter syndrome is a cognitive distortion, not a reality. A cognitive distortion is an interpretation of reality that is either an exaggeration or an irrational thought. But don't freak out, we all lean on them from time to time! It's important to note though that cognitive distortions are involved in many mental disorders and can lead to feelings of depression, anxiety, and other psychological problems. This is why addressing imposter syndrome and working towards changing personal, negative thought patterns is so crucial. 

So, by now you might be saying, "Yes, this describes me perfectly but how can I begin to minimize the effects of imposter syndrome on my professional life?" Here are some of my recommended strategies to help you strengthen your leadership confidence and combat your imposter syndrome:

‍1. Reframe Negative Thoughts  

When imposter syndrome tells you that you are not good enough, fight these thoughts with your own accomplishments. Keep what I like to call a “success journal” – write down your wins, no matter how big or small you think they are and refer to it when doubt wants to take root. Doing this practice is a way to change the pattern of negative thinking and to prove to yourself how capable you are, with facts! For more guidance on exploring and overcoming limiting beliefs, check out this free downloadable resource.

2. Focus on Growth, Not Perfection

Perfectionism is a major contributor to imposter syndrome because it forces us to hold these impossible standards for success. Shift your mindset from perfection to progress, and don’t treat mistakes as defects, but as chances for growth. Leadership is not about being flawless; it’s about continuing to lead while learning, adapting, and evolving. 

3. Seek Feedback 

Choose to seek out constructive feedback from trusted colleagues or mentors, because it can help you understand yourself better and provide specific tips for improving your leadership skills in the long run. Examples of questions you might want to ask include:

- “Am I involving the right people in the decisions that I make?”

- “Can you help me identify some ways I could become a better listener and respond to my team members’ concerns more effectively?”

- “Do you have any ideas on how I can better support new ideas, tools or approaches?”

4. Visualize Your Success 

Visualization is a powerful way to overcome self-doubt. In fact, it's one of the techniques we use as licensed counselors to assist our clients in battling their bouts of anxiety and/or doubt. Spend time imagining yourself successfully dealing with difficult challenges or accomplishing important projects in your leadership position. This is a way of building confidence and preparing yourself to lead with confidence and steadfastness.‍

5. Surround Yourself with Those Who Just "Get It"

Keep a network of colleagues, mentors, or even close friends who can pick you up when doubts creep in. These relationships should be sources of encouragement for you and help you feel good about yourself as a leader. For daily support and encouragement, follow me on IG where I share advice to help you overcome imposter syndrome (along with some other tips!!) and thrive in your leadership role.

The lesson for today is that you don't have to be held back from thriving in entrepreneurship by impostor syndrome. Through the changing of negative thought patterns, controlling doubt, and building professional self-confidence, we can overcome this struggle and operate within our roles with courage and realness.

‍Remember: Your life and leadership are like a beautiful mosaic—a unique art piece made up of countless colorful and intricate parts.‍

Instead of paying attention to the gaps or the missing pieces, celebrate the amazing, diverse talents you contribute to the people around every day. You are not an imposter, you are a leader who adds diverse views, benefits, and beauty to the work that you do. Keep it up!