How recognising imposter syndrome can lead you to become a better teacher or leader.

"The exaggerated esteem in which my life work is held makes me very ill at ease. I feel compelled to think of myself as an involuntary swindler." Albert Einstein.

If even Albert Einstein suffered in this way, perhaps it’s not a surprise that so many of us do. Forbes suggests it is a psychological phenomenon making people doubt their success. If we agree it’s about having self-doubt and struggling to accept one’s achievements, what can we do?

Imposter syndrome is a psychological pattern where individuals doubt their accomplishments and fear being exposed as a "fraud," despite evident success. It's a curious irony that some of the most successful individuals experience these feelings of inadequacy. Understanding and addressing imposter syndrome is crucial, as it affects mental health, productivity, and overall job satisfaction.

Have you stopped to consider whether this could be you? It is more prevalent in higher achievers, and can lead to anxiety and contribute towards increased stress levels.

To unravel this phenomenon further, we must consider the Dunning-Kruger Effect, which highlights that the more knowledge one acquires, the more one understands the vastness of what they don’t know. This newfound awareness can lead to self-doubt, as understanding expands beyond previous accomplishments. Conversely, those with limited knowledge often overestimate their understanding, contributing to a false sense of confidence.

So, why do successful people experience imposter syndrome? Often, this stems from life experiences, like the story of a senior school leader who grew up needing to prove himself continuously. Such pressure, combined with societal expectations and personal drive, can lead to persistent feelings of inadequacy.

Do you feel like you have a lot to prove? This question resonates with many driven individuals who fear being discovered as inadequate. Yet, this need to prove oneself can overshadow the acceptance of one's capabilities and achievements. The challenge lies in balancing drive with self-acceptance.

"I have written eleven books, but each time I think, 'Uh oh, they're going to find out now. I've run a game on everybody, and they're going to find me out." Maya Angelou

Dr. Valerie Young, an expert on imposter syndrome, suggests a necessary mind shift. Emphasising self-kindness and recognising that not every task needs immediate completion can be transformational. Accepting that it's okay not to be okay all the time is part of human growth.

For educators and leaders, embracing the reality that some tasks must wait can reduce the pressure of perfectionism. Research indicates that imposter syndrome affects not only wellbeing but professional capabilities. A significant portion of professionals experiencing imposter syndrome report decreased job satisfaction and elevated stress levels.

Understanding and addressing these feelings can empower individuals to embrace their accomplishments and continue their personal and professional development. It's time to acknowledge that imposter syndrome can affect anyone, and it's part of the learning journey toward self-acceptance and growth.

Remember, giving yourself permission to be human and fallible can be incredibly freeing and pave the way for personal development and lifelong learning.

Today, can I encourage you to embrace your achievements and recognise your worth. Pause for a moment of self-awareness and allow yourself to acknowledge where you have strengths, where you have had an impact.