Why Imposter Syndrome is a load of BS

Written by Delphine Legat @your.elite.mindset.coach

Are you sitting comfortably? Good. It’s time to settle down for a little story…

Once upon a time in the enchanted forest of Self-Doubt, there lived a mischievous monster known as Imposter Syndrome. This sneaky little beastie had an uncanny knack for whispering doubts into the ears of even the most accomplished beings in the realm.

Imagine this: You've just achieved something REMARKABLE. Maybe you smashed a project, landed that dream job, or successfully baked a soufflé without it collapsing. (Noice!) You're on cloud nine, ready to celebrate. But just as you're about to pat yourself on the back for a job well done, Imposter Syndrome slithers in, cunningly disguised as YOU, and exclaims, "You, my friend, are a fraud!"

You blink in disbelief. "What? Me? A fraud?"

Imposter Syndrome nods with excitement. "Absolutely! You don't deserve this success. You're just lucky, and sooner or later, they'll all find out!"

And just like that, your triumph turns into a never-ending loop of self-doubt. You start questioning every accomplishment, every accolade, and even the bloody soufflé. It's as if Imposter Syndrome has sprinkled a little self-sabotage dust ALL over your self-esteem…

So let’s get into it - 

What is imposter syndrome?

Imposter syndrome has been defined as the feeling of inadequacy, where all achievements and milestones achieved by the individual are down to luck or oversight from others. Basically, you don’t feel good enough to be where you are, and feel you MUST work extra hard to be there, that there was a mistake, or that this was a case of dumb luck.

Feels upsettingly familiar right?

HOWEVER, what is lacking in these conversations is the fact that the person has more often than not, actually put in a huge amount of work and very much deserves to be in the position they find themselves in.

What are the facts?

Imposter syndrome was introduced in 1978 by two ladies in the field of psychology. They came up with the term ‘Imposter Phenomenon’ to describe women of the time. What must be remembered here is that women were slowly making their way up the ranks at their corporate roles and were now taking on managerial positions, where mere years before they had only been allowed to fill secretarial roles. 

The term describes a time when women felt awkward adopting those spaces AND simultaneously describes how most men felt having to adjust and essentially do away with raging misogyny. The best way to think of it is as an uphill battle. 

Note as well, that the term originally described the experience rather than specific inherent capabilities held by an individual. Something that is separate to you versus being a part of you - this is entirely different to how we view imposter syndrome now.

Since the 70s, more and more women have been entering the workplace (wahey!) and taking on more and more senior roles. 

Let me show you some stats:

In 2023 10.4% of FTSE 500 companies had female CEOS - granted this is still only 10% HOWEVER this is a huge step in the right direction.

A 2020 analysis by Mercer of over 1,100 organizations across the world found the following stats on women in leadership:

•   Executives: 23%

•   Senior managers: 29%

•   Managers: 37%

•   Professionals: 42%

•   Support staff: 47%

  
  
  
  

Not the worst but could be better right?

So where does this leave us?

Well…if you’re feeling a bit funny about your current role and position, and don’t feel good enough, it’s time for some much needed clarity:

1.    Everyone Feels It: Imposter Syndrome is like the common cold of emotions. We've all caught it at some point! (I promise you that around 70% of people OPENLY admit to feeling a bit like a fraud during their careers). Even the world's most successful people have wondered if they're just faking it. So, congratulations, you're not alone in this grand masquerade.

2. Expertise is a Journey, Not a Destination: Nobody is born a seasoned pro. You learn, you grow, you make mistakes, and you improve. Embrace the learning curve. It's not about where you start; it's about the progress you make along the way. 

Let’s also remember, as women in the field of aviation, you are pioneers of change and adaptation - you are literally carving new ways of working so GO YOU! ✈️

3. Your Achievements Are Real: That project you bossed, that job you landed, that soufflé you baked (was it chocolate or cheese?)—those are your achievements, not just luck. Embrace the fact that you've earned your wings!

4. Confidence is a Choice: Confidence isn't a birthright; it's a decision. You can choose to believe in yourself. 

When in doubt use this affirmation: “I am worthy, I am ready, I am fearless”. This sh*t works girlies. 

So my friends, the next time you feel Imposter Syndrome knocking on your door, kindly tell it to take a hike, because these chicks have some soaring above the clouds to do. 

Remember, you are the main character of your own story.

It's time to write a new narrative—one where you embrace your achievements, take to the skies, and laugh in the face of self-doubt. 🚀✨

<Delphine Legat is a confidence coach for women, supporting women in their journeys to better self esteem, confidence, relationships, and do away with negative self-chat. You can find her on Instagram.>