How to overcome imposter syndrome

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Hi networkers,

Have you ever had imposter syndrome?

Ok, that was a rhetorical question since I’m 100% sure we all have.

In fact, I still experience it to this day. However, I’ve learned to embrace it.

Why? Because imposter syndrome never really goes away, it affects people no matter how experienced they are.

But that isn’t a bad thing, it’s quite the opposite.

Experiencing imposter syndrome means you’re on the path of growth.

In this article, I’ll share the 3 principles that have helped me use imposter syndrome to my advantage.

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Imposter Syndrome is Good for You

Principle 1: Everyone Gets Imposter Syndrome

Yep, even your managers, directors, and CEOs.

Just before the new year, I had a chance to sit down and chat with my Head of Technology at work.

For reference that’s 2 levels down from the CEO.

So was I a bit nervous? Naturally.

But was I also excited to gain insights from him? Very much so.

Surprisingly, the best piece of knowledge I gained from our 15-minute chat wasn’t about his career experience.

It was when he told me this:

Principle 2: Imposter Syndrome Never Goes Away

Let’s put it this way, if my Director who’s had 30+ years of leadership experience still gets imposter syndrome, it’s safe to say that it won’t go away.

So if it doesn’t go away, why fight it? We might as well learn to live with it.

Overcoming imposter syndrome isn’t about getting rid of it, it’s learning to live with it.

Ok wait, but how will learning to live with it help me? Glad you asked, this is where Principle 3 comes in.

Principle 3: Imposter Syndrome = Growth

Ever heard of the phrase “If you’re the smartest person in the room, you’re in the wrong room”?

This is Principle 3 in a nutshell.

You can’t grow your skills if you don’t challenge yourself. And to do so, you put yourself in uncomfortable, unfamiliar areas.

Last week, I hosted a project meeting for the 1st time and got imposter syndrome.

Sure, I felt nervous, but because I learned Principle 3, I knew I was setting myself up for success.

After all, how else would I get good at leading these calls if I didn’t start now?

Accelerated growth happens when you constantly put yourself slightly outside your comfort zone.

My advice to you:

No one’s 1st ever anything is going to be good. Your:

• 1st presentation

• 1st project

• 1st podcast

• 1st YouTube video

will be bad. You’ll even feel like a fraud or imposter. But that’s normal, accept that stage, and embrace it as a sign of growth.

See you next Tuesday 🤝

-Michael Ly

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