Overcome Imposter Syndrome
Imposter syndrome can creep up on the best of us.
Even the most capable and accomplished HR professionals may find themselves grappling with it. Don't worry, you're not alone in this struggle. I can tell you from my own experience that one day I’ll be absolutely fine and the next I’ll be questioning everything that I’m doing.
Let’s look at what imposter Syndrome is, why it happens, and most importantly, how you can overcome it.
What is Imposter Syndrome?
Imposter Syndrome is like a persistent voice that makes you doubt your abilities and makes you question your accomplishments. It's that nagging feeling of being a fraud, fearing that others will eventually uncover your perceived lack of competence, regardless of your skills and achievements. It can emerge at any stage of your HR career, leaving you feeling anxious, inadequate, and unworthy. You wonder how you’ve managed to get to where you have.
Why Does Imposter Syndrome Happen?
Imposter syndrome sneaks into our lives due to various reasons. One common factor is the high expectations we place on ourselves. As HR professionals, we often strive for perfection, setting unrealistic standards. When we don’t meet those standards we tell ourselves we are failing, when in relate we’re not. Additionally, the tendency to compare ourselves to others can contribute to imposter syndrome. Observing colleagues or industry leaders who seem to have it all together can make us question our own capabilities.
How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome
Now, let's explore practical strategies to overcome Imposter Syndrome and unlock your true potential:
Become more Self-Aware: Recognise when imposter syndrome is at play. Acknowledge your thoughts and emotions, understanding that many successful professionals experience similar feelings.
Challenge Negative Self-Talk: Reframe your inner dialogue. Replace self-limiting thoughts with positive and empowering affirmations. Remind yourself of your accomplishments, skills, and unique qualities. You are good enough. You can do this. You do have the skills, qualifications and experience to be in the role that you’re in. You deserve to be earning the salary that you are. You deserve to be in the position that you’re in.
Celebrate Your Achievements: Embrace your victories, both big and small. Take time to appreciate your successes and acknowledge your hard work and dedication. You deserve recognition. You should feel proud of what you deliver, of what you have achieved. Pride is not an arrogant thing. It helps you believe that you deserve everything you have achieved.
Seek Support, Build a supportive network : Surround yourself with mentors, peers, or trusted friends who can offer encouragement and perspective. Share your experiences, knowing that support is available. Find people around you that you know will give you honest feedback no matter what.
Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. Treat yourself with compassion and understanding, extending the same level of empathy you would offer to others facing similar challenges. Remind yourself what qualifications you have, what experience you have.
Continuous Learning: Invest in your professional development. Pursue new challenges, acquire new skills, and expand your knowledge. The more confident you become in your expertise, the less power imposter syndrome will hold.
Embrace Constructive Feedback: Use feedback as a tool for growth. Embrace constructive criticism as an opportunity to improve. Remember that feedback is valuable in your journey of professional development. If people are giving you constructive feedback I’m pretty sure there intention isn’t to put you down. Don’t take what they say as a negative thing, it is given to help you continue make steps forward.
Reframe Failure: Shift your mindset around failure. See it as a stepping stone to success. Learn from setbacks, adapt, and continue growing.
Focus on Your Value: Recognise your unique value as an HR professional. Understand the expertise, insights, and contributions you bring to the table. Emphasize the positive impact you make in your role. Think about all the people you have helped, all the problems you have solved.
Imposter syndrome may be a challenging experience, but armed with self-awareness, support, and a nurturing mindset, you can overcome it. It may appear more than we would like but remember, you have the potential to thrive in your HR career. So, embrace your abilities, address imposter syndrome head on, and continue making a meaningful impact in the world of HR. You are capable, deserving, and worthy of your achievements. Believe in yourself, and let your true potential shine!