Imposter syndrome is a persistent feeling of self-doubt and lack of confidence among individuals with high achievements. Managers, people who have worked hard to reach a high-level position, often experience this feeling.
Why might a manager feel like an imposter and how can they overcome this feeling?
Also Read: Micromanager vs. Macromanager: You Decide
Learn the reasons behind imposter syndrome for a manager and some strategies that can help them.
Managers often have solid qualifications, years of experience, and many achievements supporting them. Yet many might feel unworthy of the position, often attributing their success to luck or other such factors.
This feeling can severly impact a manager’s decision-making ability, further negatively impacting the team and the organization.
Why a Manager Might Experience Imposter Syndrome
Leadership comes with added responsibilities that amplify the pressure on an individual. Managers are often expected to lead by example, make critical decisions, and more all while adapting to changing environments. Some scenarios that might act as triggers are:
- Being Promoted: A higher position demands more work which can create self-doubt on one’s ability to handle it
- Compared with Colleagues: Seeing other successful leaders might demotivate another due to a feeling of inferiority
- High Expectations: Pressure to constantly deliver solid results without fail can make a manager question their ability to continually give a good performance
These reasons can be the force that restricts a manager from achieving their full potential by triggering imposter syndrome.
How to Overcome This Feeling
Understanding how the feeling arises is the first step to addressing the issue. But driving manager efficiency goes beyond simple recognition and normalization.
Restructure Negative Thoughts
Shift the viewpoint from one of self-criticism to a more constructive mindset. For example, “I don’t know this” becomes “I am continuously learning.” This mindset promotes growth over fear of inadequacy.
Focus on Previous Achievements
Keep track of all previous achievements to counteract any feeling of self-doubt. In times of wavering self-confidence, these past accomplishments can act as a safety net and reassure confidence in one’s abilities.
Seek Regular Feedback
Lastly, gathering feedback from colleagues and mentors can help gain a balanced understanding of one’s areas of strengths and weaknesses. Consider weaknesses to be areas of improvement and see how the strengths can offset them.
Conclusion
Ultimately, overcoming imposter syndrome for a manager requires acknowledging the feeling and recognizing strategies to address it.
