Drawing from her expertise, we delve into the key takeaways from Anna's webinar. Read on to find out how to overcome imposter syndrome and achieve your extraordinary.
Understanding Imposter Syndrome
Anna highlights the intricate relationship between our thoughts, beliefs, and actions, emphasising that beliefs are not facts but learned constructs. We are often faced with the significant challenge of autopilot thinking, which perpetuates recurring patterns of self-doubt.
"Your autopilot is the 90% of thoughts that you're having the same as yesterday, because we don't really think twice or challenge our autopilot very often,” Anna said.
“If you're someone that is experiencing a high level of imposter syndrome and it's holding you back, which we don't want, then it will be beliefs underpinning the problem.
“If you've recognised that you've been experiencing unhealthy levels of imposter syndrome, your brain is going to want you to keep on the lookout for why you don't deserve that position in the workplace or why they're better than you and you shouldn't go for that promotion. But what you're experiencing is distortion and not reality. And we have to start telling ourselves this is not a fact.”
The role of self-esteem, perfectionism and growth mindset
Low self-esteem often underpins imposter syndrome, shaping perceptions of self-worth and fuelling social anxiety.
Anna explains, "When you've got low self-esteem, you're going to have higher social anxiety. You're going to care more about what other people think. You're going to fear judgment more, which makes sense that you might have really unhealthy levels of imposter syndrome as a result."
Perfectionism, intertwined with low self-esteem, intensifies imposter syndrome by fostering rigid thinking and fear of failure. Conversely, embracing a growth mindset fosters resilience and openness to learning.
As Anna says, "Discomfort equals growth. I look around and I seek out discomfort. I welcome it because it is only then that I'm going to grow."
By reframing imposter syndrome as a catalyst for growth and learning, you can embrace discomfort as a sign of progress. Sometimes imposter syndrome is like a voice in your head telling you that you are not good enough. But as Anna says, that voice can be a good indicator that you’re on the right path.
“That voice is a self-preservation protection voice. It's you looking out for you because you're out of your comfort zone. ‘Are you sure you can do this? Are you sure you can speak in front of that many people?’
“When I hear that voice, I know I am exactly where I should be. I'm sad if I don't hear the voice. Because if I don't hear the voice, I'm living in my comfort zone and nothing's going to change."
Anna's webinar offers a transformative perspective on imposter syndrome, empowering you to challenge your limiting beliefs and embrace growth. To delve deeper into these insights, watch the full webinar and get ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.