Imposter syndrome can affect anyone at any time regardless of one’s credentials, experiences and achievements. For young leaders and those in new leadership positions, the added pressure of proving one’s capabilities and avoiding failure at all costs can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and even lead to self-sabotage.
While imposter syndrome is a common experience for many people, learning how to address that negative inner voice and develop confidence in one’s abilities is the key to unlocking an emerging leader’s potential. To help professionals effectively tackle this hurdle, 15 Forbes Business Council members each offer advice for overcoming imposter syndrome and developing confidence in oneself in a leadership role.
1. Ground Yourself In Reality
Impostor syndrome manifests itself in bright, interesting and enthusiastic people. Start by reducing the time you spend on social media, as these platforms tend to exacerbate the issue when you only see posts about successes, not failures, and you see perfection, not reality. Try not to compare yourself to others. Instead, compare yourself with your past self by considering what you know today that you didn’t know yesterday. – Dmitry Malin, Novakid
2. Acknowledge The Issue
In order to overcome this, you have to recognize and acknowledge the problem. Failing to recognize that you have imposter syndrome will not solve it; instead, you must confront it head-on in order to find a solution. Celebrate your wins because you are a winner. Keep in mind that every step you take is a step bringing you closer to your success. – Pavel Stepanov, Virtudesk
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3. Create A List Of Your Accomplishments
As imposters believe that they simply happened to be in the right place at the right time, it is really important to compile a list of all the merits that you, as a leader, bring to the organization. As you define the benefits that have much to do with your business strategy, team creation, marketing actions or commercial success, believe me, there will be no room left for doubts. – Egor Kirin, Agro.Club Inc.
4. Be Open To Learning
Make sure that you are always willing to learn. Surround yourself with mentors, peers and supportive individuals who can provide guidance and constructive feedback. This will allow you to continuously learn and grow in your leadership capacity. Don’t be afraid to take on challenges and responsibilities, even those outside your comfort zone. – Mark Williams, Brokers International
5. Get A Mentor
Find a mentor whom you trust and admire and with whom you can confide about important business decisions. Talking through issues with a trusted advisor can give you clarity and build your confidence in decision making. – Kelley Higney, Bug Bite Thing
6. Lean On Peers And Professionals For Help
If you have been running a business for a while, you will experience employees and clients leaving you. This may make you feel that you are not good enough or have made wrong decisions, but it’s completely normal. I ran the business at 29 and it happened to me. I built a group of peers who were in the same position as me and hired a business coach to help guide me on the right path. – Jesse Sasomsup, Earnest Homes
7. Focus On Gaining More Knowledge And Experience
It is easy to question yourself when you are new to a role or business. One of the best things you can do is gain more knowledge and experience. Success stories are empowering, so put yourself out there and gain traction. There are so many resources out there, so stay a student, keep learning and find good mentors. You should always be growing and evolving. – Laura Scotti, ScottiWorks
8. Join Membership Organizations
Join an organization that has other aspiring leaders as members. Some that come to mind are Entrepreneurs’ Organization, Accelerator, Toastmasters and Young Presidents’ Organization, and I am sure there are others. You are not the only one feeling that way, all leaders do, and being around others in the same situation makes it less lonely. Plus, you can learn and share with the others in the group. – Barry Raber, Carefree Covered RV Storage
9. Enroll In A Manager Training Program
First-time leaders often feel unprepared and anxious when transitioning from an individual contributor to leadership, as it requires a shift in behavior and skill set. Enrolling in a first-time manager training program can help new leaders develop self-awareness, master influential communication and acquire essential leadership skills that will boost their confidence and alleviate imposter syndrome. – René Janssen, Lepaya
10. Keep A Positive Mindset
When I started managing my own fund at 28, I was coming off being a wholesaler in real estate for a few years. I had moved from a beginner level to an advanced position in less than five years. Engaging in positive self-talk and remembering my past wins when the odds looked like they were against me are what reminded me that I am cut out for this position. Keeping a positive mindset and remembering your wins are important. – Joseph Kimbrough, Apex Real Estate Investments
11. Lead By Example
To overcome imposter syndrome, lead by example. If you work harder than other people, you’ll gain their respect and they’ll match your energy. Don’t demand things from people that you’re not doing yourself. A favorite quote of mine is, “The magic you are looking for is in the work you’re avoiding.” Then you can step up in your role. – Danyal Ali, Xponential Fitness
12. Delegate
I’d say don’t be afraid of delegating. We can have it all, but we cannot do it all. Not everyone is good at everything, and that’s something you need to take into account when building your team. Be open to new ideas and have faith in yourself. You might change your mind multiple times a day about something you want to do, and that will continue until you hit that sweet spot in your business. – Raquel Gomes, Stafi
13. View Leadership As A Journey
To overcome imposter syndrome as a young leader, embrace leadership as a journey of growth and recognize that even experienced leaders face confidence challenges. Counter imposter syndrome by acknowledging your accomplishments and maintaining a record of your skills and positive feedback. Confidence builds through ongoing self-improvement and embracing your role as a continual learner. – Steven Thomas, MILESTONE CONCEPT GmbH
14. Document And Review Your Achievements
To combat imposter syndrome, especially as a young leader, regularly document and review your achievements and contributions. Recognizing your impact helps anchor self-worth. Also, seek mentorship because talking with experienced leaders can provide perspective and validation. Everyone starts somewhere, and growth is a continuous journey. Embrace and learn from challenges. – Andrei Neacsu, HyperSense Software Inc.
15. Keep Going
Everyone has experienced the sensation of imposter syndrome at some point in their career, and probably more than once. The best way to overcome it is to keep doing your job, know that this uncomfortable feeling is normal and give yourself time. After a while, the nagging guilt, uncertainty and insecurity that’s quietly tapping you on the shoulder will slowly dissipate. – Dr. David Lenihan, Tiber Health
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