Could feeling like an impostor be a good sign?

In the UPFRONT Bond, the topic of Impostor Syndrome and related fears are topics we discuss and explore together frequently. For me a feeling of not quite fitting in, or not being quite good (or “bad”) enough is familiar, and is nagging at me even as I write this. For this very reason, while I was keen to rise to the challenge of doing a guest blog, I’ve been struggling to put the words together and noticed a whole list of objections (you can read them at the end of this post)

Where I can claim at least some expertise is in the powerful impact of reflective thinking and taking a questioning approach to reveal what’s behind the “symptoms” and reframe a challenge. This invariably helps me, if not to find resolution, to at least make positive progress and feel more in control. The label “syndrome” conjures up negative connotations, suggesting it’s a form of illness and accordingly, it’s not unusual to find articles sharing tips on how to manage or overcome it but I’ve been reflecting on what lies behind it.

Thinking about the situations where Impostor Syndrome occurs, what are the positives and potential benefits? What would happen if the feelings were “flipped”? Alongside all of the discomfort, could any of these also be true?

I have a curious, exploratory mind and high standards. This quote from Sonke Ahrens’ “How to Take Smart Notes” jumped out at me:

“high achievers, who have had a taste of the vast amount of knowledge that is out there are likely to suffer from what psychologists call Imposter Syndrome, the feeling that you are not really up to the job, even though, of all people, they are”

With so many options to be exposed to new ideas and perspectives, any attempt to feel like an “expert” can feel out of reach but someone with a thirst for learning and a willingness to have their thoughts stretched and challenged is exactly the person I’d prefer to have a conversation with.

I’m not complacent and am learning and growing.

When I reflect on my (lifelong) confidence journey so far, there’s no doubt that I get the most satisfaction, pride and excitement from situations where I’m at the edge of my comfort zone and have resisted the urge to say “no” to situations where I felt unsure.

I’m listening and really care what others think, feel and do.

While I recognise this can lead to unhelpful comparisons it’s generally also a mark of respect for others’ stories and expertise.

I have the perfect chance to uplift others.

One “top tip” from UPFRONT’s, Founder, Lauren Currie about being on a panel was one that’s stuck in my mind (although I haven’t yet had a chance to use it!). She suggested that when asked something we don’t know the answer to, it’s best to say so, but then use it as an opportunity to recommend someone else whose expertise in the field we recognise.

I’m challenging biases and an unhealthy, discriminatory status quo

In environments that are currently unrepresentative or where the conversations are “narrow”, the only way to reverse the trend is for new voices and faces to enter those spaces and own the right to be there.

And most lastly but most definitely true

I’m unique — and so is everyone else. Of course there’s no one else like me in the room (and wouldn’t it be so much less interesting if there was?)

PS — here are just a few of the “impostor feelings” that nearly got in the way of me writing this — some more valuable thinking matter for me, and I hope you too.

My objections

• This is the remit of psychologists — I’m not one so it’s not something I should dig into.
• I have done limited research to support what I’m writing (if I discount the lifetime of personal experiences).
• I have openly been talking about my writer’s block so I won’t be able to produce anything “good”.
• It’s a guest blog and the other posts on UPFRONT are long, personal and thoughtful… and;
• This is my “big opportunity” to be more visible and likely to reach more readers than my personal blog will ever attract — is this really the “right topic” for the occasion?
• I can’t write enough on this — I’ve read how long an “ideal” post is and I can’t hit the word count
• Is my style and thinking too flippant for such a serious topic? Doesn’t it deserve a more intellectual approach?

I’m glad I said yes and wrote the thing.

Article by: Nikki Wilson, Bond 5 alumni

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