Worklife with Adam Grant Befriending your impostor syndrome with Iceland's president Halla Tómasdóttir
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Dec 17, 2024 
Halla Tómasdóttir, President of Iceland, previously co-founded Reykjavik University and led an investment firm during the financial crisis. She shares her journey from self-doubt to winning the presidency, emphasizing the importance of embracing impostor syndrome. Halla discusses her 'scarf revolution,' a unique political engagement movement, and highlights how listening fosters trust and collaboration in leadership. She also explores the need for inclusive masculinity and the transformative power of understanding diverse perspectives to enhance societal well-being.
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Initial Reaction to Presidential Nomination
- When first encouraged to run for president, Halla Tómasdóttir's initial reaction was self-doubt, questioning her qualifications.
- She considers this a normal reaction to such a significant request and acknowledges her imposter syndrome.
Befriending Imposter Syndrome
- Halla Tómasdóttir views imposter syndrome not as a weakness, but as a critical friend.
- This "friend" asks the hard questions, preventing overconfidence (hubris syndrome), which she considers more dangerous in leadership.
The Scarf Revolution
- While initially polling low in her second presidential campaign, Halla Tómasdóttir wore a scarf and pink jacket during a debate.
- This sparked a "scarf revolution" where people wore similar attire in solidarity, demonstrating the power of symbols.