Let me start this by introducing myself. I'm Matheus and I’ve worked on different positions in different projects and verticals, on companies and research institutes: development, business analysis, requirements analysis, technical leadership, innovation policies, and project management. Over time I’ve moved on to senior leadership roles, which I am executing for more than a decade now, and for the past few years I am serving as Managing Director for Thoughtworks Spain and also part of the company’s global leadership team.
A while ago, I had a session with one of my mentees at my current company. He asked me to talk a little bit about the famous Imposter Syndrome. He’s facing new challenges dealing with a lot of imposter feelings lately. By the way, he’s amazing and am sure he will rock on to new challenges.
As a leader, I've often had to confront and overcome my own Impostor Syndrome. It's a common experience among leaders, and frankly, most of us (all of us?) have been there at some point. It’s a normal feeling, a part of being human, but recognizing and overcoming it is essential for both personal and professional growth.
To prepare myself for the session with him, I took notes of stuff that helped me to overcome my own imposter Syndrome in the past. At the end, we had an amazing discussion! So I decided to remove all personal examples and anecdotal stories and share what was left here as post. I hope it helps.
Feeling an imposter and having fear is a common pattern. And it isn’t a problem in itself. Fear has a biological reason to exist. In Thoughtworks Brazil we used to say “Courage is not lack of fear, but doing it anyways even when afraid”.
In fact, when I invite someone to a new and more complex position, as a leader I kind of expect a combination of a bit of fear with excitement. If I see no fear at all, I usually think there’s a yellow flag somewhere.
This feeling is normal, natural and part of human condition. So should I just ignore it?
Not necessarily. The problem is if it becomes pathological of if it hinders your ability to give our best and to be geuine in your role. If that’s the case, we need to talk about it and act.
Here are some strategies that have helped me navigate these challenges and emerge stronger:
These strategies not only helped me in my journey but have also enabled me to guide others who are facing similar challenges. Overcoming Impostor Syndrome is a process, but it’s one that leads to stronger, more confident leadership. The path may not always be easy, but with persistence and the right mindset, it’s a journey worth taking. Every step you take towards overcoming these doubts contributes to your growth as a leader and as an individual.
Do you have any strategies that have worked for you, or any tips you’d like to share? I’d love to hear from you!
#Leadership #PersonalGrowth #ImpostorSyndrome #Mentorship
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