How to overcome imposter syndrome

"I feel like a fraud, like I don't belong here." These words whispered in countless high-achieving professional women's minds highlight the pervasive struggle with imposter syndrome. According to a KPMG study, 75% of female executives experience imposter syndrome at some point in their careers. But what lies at the root of this phenomenon? While individual factors such as perfectionism and self-criticism play a role, it is crucial to recognize the powerful influence of society and trauma in shaping and perpetuating imposter syndrome. Let's discuss how to overcome imposter syndrome.

Societal Pressures and Gender Stereotypes

From birth, women face gender stereotypes and societal expectations that mold their self-perception. Cultural messages suggest that women must work twice as hard and achieve twice as much to be considered equal to their male counterparts. This relentless pressure to prove oneself can lead to a deep-seated fear of being exposed as a "fraud," even in the face of undeniable competence and success.

Lack of Representation

The shortage of representation and diversity in leadership positions reinforces the notion that success is an exception rather than the norm for women. When high-achieving women look up the corporate ladder, they often lack

role models who reflect their identities and experiences. This absence of representation can fuel self-doubt and lead women to question whether they truly belong in the positions they have worked so hard to attain.

Attribution Bias

Society often attributes women's success to external factors such as luck or affirmative action rather than recognizing their skills and qualifications. A study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that when women's success is attributed to luck, they are more likely to experience imposter feelings. This bias feeds into the narrative that women's achievements are undeserved, leading them to internalize the belief that they are unworthy of their success.

The Role of Trauma

In addition to societal influences, trauma can significantly contribute to the development of imposter syndrome. Women who have experienced discrimination, harassment, or abuse in their personal or professional lives may struggle with feelings of worthlessness and self-doubt. Trauma can shatter one's sense of self and distort one's perception of their abilities. Survivors of trauma may feel like they are constantly waiting for their success to be ripped away, believing that they are not good enough or have somehow fooled others into thinking they are competent.

Combating Imposter Syndrome

High-achieving professional women must actively challenge the societal and traumatic influences contributing to their self-doubt. This involves:

• Seeking out role models and mentors who have navigated similar challenges

• Cultivating a supportive network of colleagues and friends

• Engaging in self-reflection to identify and reframe negative thought patterns

• Utilizing therapy and counseling to address the impact of trauma on imposter syndrome, providing a safe space to process experiences, develop coping strategies, and build a stronger sense of self-worth

Organizational Responsibility

Overcoming imposter syndrome shouldn't fall solely on individual women. Organizations and society must address the systemic barriers and biases perpetuating this phenomenon. Companies can start by:

• Implementing diversity and inclusion initiatives, such as unconscious bias training, mentorship programs, and targeted recruitment efforts

• Creating supportive environments that value and celebrate women's achievements, helping to dismantle the stereotypes and expectations that fuel imposter syndrome

Societal Change

Society must challenge gender norms and support policies promoting gender equality. This includes:

• Amplifying diverse voices

• Celebrating women's successes

• Advocating for policies that promote gender equality

By collectively working towards a world where every woman feels confident, valued, and deserving of her success, we can begin to dismantle the societal and traumatic roots of imposter syndrome.

Conclusion

To the high-achieving professional women reading this, remember you are not alone in your struggles. Your experiences with imposter syndrome are valid and reflect the complex interplay of societal and traumatic influences. By speaking out about your experiences, supporting one another, and advocating for change, we can create a future where imposter syndrome is no longer a barrier to women's success. Unmasked and fearless, we defy societal constraints and overcome past traumas. We celebrate our accomplishments, recognize our value, and forge a path towards a future where every woman thrives, unburdened by self-doubt and empowered to reach her full potential.