Imposter Syndrome? Never Heard of Her

I recently attended a professional event where I was mistaken for an assistant and overlooked in a decision-making conversation as a result. When I spoke up, the person in question commented, “but you look too young to be a Director.” Admittedly, this comment caused me a moment – okay, multiple moments – of self-doubt.

I began questioning myself, asking “Do others look at me and assume the same?” or “Should I be older to hold my current position?” and “Do those around me assume I am not capable due to my age?”

After some self-reflection, I was able to calm the little voices in my head. I focused on reminding myself why I am deserving of the position I hold and contemplating both my successes and failures that have brought me here.

During this reflection, I found the following considerations useful and offer them in case you might find the same.

 

Reframe Your Thoughts

-Recognize that feeling like an imposter doesn’t mean you are one.

-Shift focus from perfection to progress.

 

Keep a Professional Journal

-Track your achievements, positive feedback, and milestones.

-When doubt creeps in, review your wins to remind yourself of your value.

-I also track my failures, as they arguably teach you more than your successes.

 

Talk About It

-Many successful professionals experience imposter syndrome.

-Discussing it with a mentor, peer, or coach can help put things into perspective.

 

Stop Comparing Yourself to Others

-Social media and workplace visibility can make it seem like everyone else is more competent.

-Focus on your journey, not someone else’s highlight reel.

 

Accept That No One Knows Everything

-Even the most experienced professionals are still learning.

-Confidence comes from acknowledging what you do know while being open to growth.

-There is power in being honest about what you do not know.

 

Fake It ‘Til You Make It

-Confidence often comes after action.

-Show up, contribute, and trust that you belong.

 

Recognize the Value You Bring

-You were hired (or promoted) for a reason.

-Your skills, perspective, and experience matter.

 

While I cannot control similar comments being made towards me in the future, what I can control is my reaction to those comments.

Next time, if someone doesn’t think I “look old enough” to hold my current position, perhaps I’ll enlighten them with a list of projects I’ve successfully managed or educational programs I’ve completed.

Just kidding! But at least if I find myself in a comparable conversation, I’ll be able to better control my internal dialogue with a goal to minimize my own self-doubt.

 

About the Author

Alexa is the Director of Marketing at Harper Grey. She serves as the Treasurer of LiL and is also a member of LiL’s Coordination Committee where she assists with content development, event organization and all other things LiL! She is active in the legal community and is the Past President of the BC Legal Management Association (BCLMA).