You know that feeling when you’re in work-mode, maybe in a meeting or presenting at a conference, and you hear that voice in your head. It’s shouting: “Hey, you. Why are you here? You don’t belong here. Those other people, they belong here. You’ll get found out soon enough, you big fake.” Well, that’s imposter syndrome and you are definitely not alone in feeling like this and hearing that voice.
In the fast-paced world of business, where confidence and competence are highly valued, this silent struggle of imposter syndrome is taking place behind the scenes more frequently that you might imagine.
What is imposter syndrome?
Impostor syndrome is that voice in your head making you doubt your accomplishments and creating an internalised fear of being exposed as a fraud. Despite usually a bunch of evidence to the contrary (your skills, experiences, qualifications, personality, etc all contribute to why you are where you are and why you absolutely DO belong there).
Frustratingly, women in business are particularly susceptible to the grip of imposter syndrome.
Imposter syndrome can manifest as a persistent feeling of inadequacy, self-doubt, and the belief that your achievements are merely the result of luck or external factors.
Pep talk: You are not lucky. You work hard, you are talented, and you deserve everything good that comes you way.
The impact on women in business
Women in business often encounter unique challenges that make impostor syndrome worse. Gender biases, societal expectations, and lack of representation in leadership roles can all contribute to feelings of self-doubt and serve to undermine our confidence.
As women ascend the corporate ladder or embark on their entrepreneurial journeys, the fear of being perceived as a “fraud” can hinder progress and hold you back from reaching your full potential. And, the potential for women in business is truly endless.
Coaching as a solution
Business coaching can be a transformative solution in combating impostor syndrome. Here are a few ways that coaching can empower women to overcome this barrier:
- Creating a safe space: A skilled business coach provides a supportive and judgment-free environment where clients can openly discuss their feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy. This safe space allows for introspection and self-discovery, leading to a deeper understanding of the root causes of impostor syndrome.
- Challenging negative thought patterns: Coaches can help to identify and challenge the negative thought patterns that contribute to impostor syndrome, replacing self-limiting beliefs with more empowering narratives.
- Highlighting achievements: Women often downplay their accomplishments. A coach will acknowledge and celebrate your successes, fostering a sense of pride and providing validation for your hard work and achievements.
- Setting realistic goals: Coaches work to set achievable and meaningful goals. By breaking down larger objectives into smaller, manageable steps, clients can build a sense of competence and confidence as they make progress.
- Developing self-compassion: Coaching emphasises self-compassion and self-care, teaching you to treat yourself with kindness and understand that perfection is not the benchmark for success.
- Building a support network: Coaches often have extensive networks and can connect you with mentors, peers, and role models who have successfully overcome impostor syndrome.
Impostor syndrome can cast a shadow of self-doubt on the aspirations of women in business. But I’m here to say, “don’t let it hold you back!”. With the guidance of a skilled business coach, you can break free from its grip and embrace your true potential.
Coaching empowers women to challenge negative thought patterns, celebrate their achievements, and develop the confidence needed to excel in their entrepreneurial endeavours or career. When women overcome impostor syndrome, they step into leadership roles, contribute meaningfully to their industries, and pave the way for a more inclusive and diverse business landscape. All of these things lead to a better world for everyone.