Overcoming imposter syndrome in a time of crisis
The overwhelming feeling that you could be ‘found out’ and turfed at any moment can be all consuming in business, particularly at a time of uncertainty and crisis. Here, Urban List’s founder and CEO Susannah George offers her insights for overcoming the infuriating imposter syndrome.
It is interesting how, in a time of crisis, we can be forced to face and overcome our greatest fears.
Among mine has been an ever-present battle with a parasite many people in media, marketing and advertising will be familiar with — imposter syndrome. That feeling that someone’s just about to blow your cover and expose you for the incompetent fraud you really are.
In a time of crisis and need for decisive leadership, a syndrome that causes you to second guess, to delay decisions and to confuse others with your comms is less than constructive.
Really enjoyed this article – thanks for sharing your insights Susannah
These stats terrify me. When I see the number of men (& some women) in leadership with egos so large they can’t comprehend they may be wrong… it reminds me why we need more balanced board rooms.
Business leaders use the term “imposter syndrome”. The rest of the world calls it self-doubt. We all have it – and that’s generally a good thing in small doses.
Thanks for this – I really needed it today.
This is a great piece and congrats Susannah on all you have achieved at The Urban List.
As an executive coach, I have found this syndrome also produces a fear factor among my female clients. As one person said, “I am constantly waiting for the other shoe to fall.” Unfortunately, she works in the healthcare profession that does not know how to be transparent let alone being vulnerable. The Covid19 has only increased the anxiety surrounding the imposter syndrome and her work environment. And, if you add the spotlight syndrome, many of my female clients now have chronic anxiety as soon as they leave their car to enter the hospital. As a man in the helping profession, I am saddened by the amount fear that underlines performance. I will share your article with my clients….thanks so much!
Thanks Susannah, very thought provoking – as a fellow sufferer I know your syndrome well. But leadership isn’t a science and there are no absolute rights or wrongs to lean on. It is so much about who we are as a person and it does expose us to criticism and self doubt. But you should feel good about your leadership – you are a good person and your motivation in business has always been about giving a voice to others, a very worthwhile cause. Whilst ever you are guided by your principles you should have no doubts about your leadership.