Why We're Ditching the Term 'Imposter Syndrome'

Everyone’s experienced self-doubt at some point. However, downplaying our accomplishments and skills might lead to negative self-talk. That's not to say questioning yourself is completely bad — sometimes it can spur you to improve!

Resources

• Sign up for the Resilient Team Academy to join a supportive and thriving community of leaders.
• Listen to Episode 67: Bringing Your Best Self to Work with Dr Sarah Goulding
• Read about Stop Telling Women They Have Imposter Syndrome by Ruchika Tulshyan  and Jodi-Ann Burey
• Know more about Brené Brown
• Connect with Corrina Gordon-Barnes
• Grab a copy of The 6-Minute Success Journal
• Check out Sarah’s website
• Follow Sarah on Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Linkedin.

Episode Highlights

[03:46] The Imposter Syndrome

• Many people today use the phrase 'imposter syndrome' without much thought. 
• Impostor syndrome can make you feel like a fraud.

[08:37] Take a Break 

• Professionals who work in high-stress environments are more likely to be harsh on themselves.

[11:03] Imposter Syndrome and Gaslighting 

• Find out why someone supposedly has imposter syndrome — it may be a more significant problem than you expect.
• The problem may be systemic.
• Telling someone that they may be experiencing imposter syndrome can be a form of gaslighting. 

[13:47] How Self-Doubt Can Help You

• Self-doubt is healthy when you associate it with a growth mindset. 
• We are human — expect mistakes. We can, however, grow and change.

[21:14] Spotting Unhelpful Thoughts

• No one has everything figured out.
• Examine your thoughts and decide to be kinder to yourself.
• It's crucial to share your thoughts with others and reflect.

[24:59] Leadership and Vulnerability 

• It's helpful for leaders to reveal their vulnerabilities. 
• Leave a job when your unique abilities and talents aren't a good fit.

[31:36] The Need For Supervision 

• Medical professionals have access to many coaching programs, but rarely use them. 
• Coaching programs do not tell you what to do; they encourage you to determine what is most important to you.

[35:45] Self-Compassion 

• Imagine yourself speaking to a loved one. Consider what you would say to them if they were in a similar situation.
• You are worthy of self-compassion.

[39:39] Change The Way You Think

• Consider the higher purpose of what you're doing instead of thinking you're not good enough.
• Everyone is capable of improving themselves through training.
• Success also means celebrating small wins. 

[44:38] Sarah’s Top Three Tips 

• Examine the source of your self-doubt.
• Share your thoughts with others. 
• Practice self-compassion.

Mentioned in this episode:

Escape the Urgency Trap masterclass
A 90-minute training for doctors and other busy professionals working in high-stress, high-stakes jobs like healthcare.