Rise and Lead
Rise and Lead
Imposter Syndrome: What is it and how to Overcome it with Benjamin Lundquist - RAL 88
On this episode, Imposter Syndrome: What is it and how to Overcome It, Benjamin explores a topic that hits home for even the most capable leaders and that topic is imposter syndrome. If you’ve ever felt like you don’t deserve your success, that you’re ‘faking it,’ or that you’re just waiting for someone to find out you’re not as competent as they think, this episode is for you. This teaching breaks down what imposter syndrome is, why it’s so prevalent for leaders, and most importantly, provides you with a step-by-step approach to overcome it. imposter syndrome isn’t a flaw; it’s a sign of growth, ambition, and caring deeply about your work and God’s calling in your life. The fact that you recognize and care is good thing. Let's get into this episode!
Episode Quote:
"Imposter syndrome is that voice in your head that whispers, ‘You’re not good enough,’ or, ‘You don’t belong here.’ It makes you doubt your skills, your decisions, and your worth. It makes you question your success and fuels your fear that others will discover you’re not as capable as they think you are. And I’ve been there too."
This episode, like all Rise and Lead Podcast episodes, is highly practical and motivating. Don't forget to subscribe to the Rise and Lead Podcast to ensure you get notified when new episodes release every month. When you share about the podcast, make sure and tag @benjaminlundquist, and he'll always try and give you a re-post. Remember, the best time to rise and lead is now!
Imposter syndrome is a reminder that you are striving, growing and pushing yourself. It's not a sign of weakness. It's a sign of progress. Imposter syndrome is very common. When you have leveled up, you often feel like you don't deserve the opportunity in front of you or you are not ready for the responsibility that has been given to you from one leader to another. If you don't deal with your imposter syndrome, it will negatively affect your life and your leadership. Welcome to Rise and Lead.
Speaker 1:I'm Benjamin Lundquist, and this podcast is all about personal growth and leadership. Thank you for listening and for being a part of our Rise and Lead community. We are a community of leaders who are passionate about growth, leadership and expanding our impact on the world. On this episode, we're going to explore a topic that hits even the most capable leaders, and that's the topic of imposter syndrome. If you've ever felt like you don't deserve your success, that you're faking it, or that you're just waiting for someone to find out that you're not really as competent as they think you are, today's episode is for you. We're going to break down what imposter syndrome is, why it's so prevalent for leaders and, most importantly, we're going to dig into a step-by-step approach to overcome it. Stay tuned to the end, because I'll leave you with a challenge that will inspire you to take action right away.
Speaker 1:Let's get into it. The Rise and Lead podcast is designed specifically to motivate and equip you to live your greatest life with maximum impact. We are going to find out what makes great leaders great and how you can start growing yourself. Rise, expanding your impact, lead and living the life you have been created to live. We are stronger together and I want to personally invite you to be a Rise and Lead partner in spreading the word about this podcast and all the episodes that will follow, so together we can reach more people. Remember to subscribe to the podcast so you can get all the episodes that release every month.
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Speaker 1:I'm excited to share that we've hit close to 150 countries with the support of people like you and I just want to say, on behalf of our team, thank you If this is your first time listening. Half of our team. Thank you If this is your first time listening. I'm so glad you're here. I know your time is valuable. I would encourage you to go back and listen to the Rise and Lead Foundation episode so you can hear more about my story and the five foundational pillars of the podcast.
Speaker 1:I like to start with prayer, so let's pray together. God, use this episode to help someone walk with greater confidence in who you have called and created them to be, replace lies with truth and expand our territory and impact for your glory. Give us tools to deal with imposter syndrome and lead with a greater level of authenticity In your name. We pray amen. This is a teaching our community has been asking for for a while, because it's challenging for so many and I hope this helps you.
Speaker 1:Imposter syndrome is that voice in your head that whispers you're not good enough or you don't belong here. It makes you doubt your skills, your decisions and your worth. It makes you question your success and fuels your fear that others will discover you're really not as capable as they think you are and I've been there too. As leaders which is what you are we face an immense pressure to perform, inspire and lead the way. We are expected to know what we are doing and carry ourselves with an unshakable confidence. We often set sky-high standards for ourselves and carry a tremendous burden of responsibility. The fear of failure, making mistakes and being found out can feel like a constant weight on our shoulders. Sometimes we can become addicted to work and hustle as a way to combat our feelings of imposter syndrome. If I just work harder than anyone else, those around me will see me as a success. But there is a price you pay for this approach. But here's the truth, and it's an important one.
Speaker 1:Imposter syndrome isn't a flaw. It's a sign of growth, ambition and caring deeply about your work and God's calling on your life. The fact that you recognize imposter syndrome and you care is a good thing. I'm going to say that one more time. Imposter syndrome isn't a flaw. It's a sign of growth, ambition and caring deeply about your work and God's calling upon your life. And you aren't alone. 70% of people experience imposter syndrome at some point, and leaders are especially susceptible because they're often in the spotlight on stages and accountable for team or company success. Imposter syndrome is a reminder that you are striving, growing and pushing yourself. It's not a sign of weakness. It's a sign of progress.
Speaker 1:Imposter syndrome is very common. When you have leveled up, you often feel like you don't deserve the opportunity in front of you or you are not ready for the responsibility that has been given to you From one leader to another. If you don't deal with your imposter syndrome, it will negatively affect your life and your leadership. When you constantly feel like a fraud, it takes a toll on your mental and emotional well-being. It can lead to chronic stress, anxiety and even burnout. Imposter syndrome makes you second guess your decisions and you end up feeling paralyzed when you need to take action. It's that voice that says what if I mess up? Instead of how can I make this work? You might hold back from going for a promotion, leading a project or even expanding your own business, thinking you are simply not qualified. The fear of being exposed prevents you from stepping into your God potential also lead to playing it safe Instead of taking strategic risks that can propel your God impact forward. Leaders who doubt themselves can struggle to inspire confidence in their teams. They might hesitate to delegate or collaborate, and that can create an atmosphere or culture of uncertainty for everyone.
Speaker 1:If you've been played it safe and you are struggling to step forward, I want to encourage you with this. Faith without action is just a dream. You've been waiting for a sign, but the truth is, the sign is already in your hands. Everything you need to achieve what's in your heart has already been placed inside of you. Stop waiting for the perfect moment. The moment is now. God has equipped you with everything you need. Don't just pray for change. Be the change. Your next step is not in the waiting. It's in the doing. Don't live the same year over and over again and call it a life of faith. Hear my heart on this. Often, what you are wanting to do. It doesn't need more prayer. It needs you to address your imposter syndrome and take action.
Speaker 1:I want to give you a five-step guide or approach to overcoming imposter syndrome. This is not going to happen overnight, but it can happen over time. Here are the five steps and then I'm going to go back and talk about each one individually. Number one acknowledge it and normalize it. Number two reframe your thinking. Number three document and celebrate your wins. Number four seek out mentorship and peer support. And finally, number five reflect and revisit your strengths, those things that you are really good at. Step number one acknowledge it and normalize it.
Speaker 1:The first step to overcoming imposter syndrome is acknowledging that it exists. Don't push it away or pretend it's not there. Recognize it and say I'm feeling this and that's okay. I'm not the only one Imposter syndrome. It thrives in the shadows. It thrives in the dark when you don't acknowledge it and don't talk about it. But when you shine a light on it, it loses its power. Remind yourself that imposter syndrome doesn't mean you're unqualified. Let me say that again. Remind yourself that imposter syndrome doesn't mean you're unqualified. What it does mean is that you're pushing yourself, you're striving and you're growing. So acknowledge that imposter syndrome exists, but don't let it define you.
Speaker 1:Step number two reframe your thinking. When you catch yourself thinking I'm not good enough. Stop and reframe that thought. Change it to I'm learning and improving and I'm getting better every day. Instead of thinking I'm not qualified for this, say something like I am the right person for this challenge and I will grow through this, this challenge and I will grow through this. Even think about creating a daily mantra or affirmation that you can repeat, one that's simple and powerful like this I am capable, God has already qualified me and I am growing. As a leader, you can choose one thought over another. Let me say that again. As a leader, you can choose one thought over another.
Speaker 1:Step number three document and celebrate your wins. Write down one or two wins each day. This can be a successful presentation at work or at your university, a positive piece of feedback, or simply you made it through a tough day. Review this list on the regular and remind yourself of your progress and your competence. You have made progress, you have a track record, you have experience and you have a resume with God. You have been in many spots like this before You've made it through. You have wins under your belt. Hear me on this One bad day doesn't discount the wins you've already had with God. When you recognize your own growth. Imposter syndrome has less power over you.
Speaker 1:Step number four seek out mentorship and peer support. A mentor can offer guidance and perspective that helps you combat imposter syndrome. Choose someone who has been where you are and who can reassure you that your doubts are normal and your doubts are surmountable. Talk to other leaders, colleagues or business owners who might also have dealt with imposter syndrome. Sharing stories can be so eye-opening and help you see that you're not alone in what you are feeling. And these conversations can also affirm that you are exactly where you need to be in the right place, that you are exactly where you need to be in the right place.
Speaker 1:On the podcast, I'm always talking about surrounding yourself with the right people, and I love this quote by Oprah Winfrey surround yourself with only people who are going to lift you higher. And finally, step number five reflect and revisit your strengths. Take time to revisit past projects and accomplishments. Remember there was a time in your journey when you weren't at the place that you are right now. That deserves reflection. What challenges did you face on this path forward? How did you overcome those challenges? Remind yourself of your strengths and the skills you bring to the table. If you are at the table. You are supposed to be at the table. Walk into every room like God sent you there because he did. You are fearfully and wonderfully made. You have skills, abilities, a toolbox and experience that nobody else has. Remember that.
Speaker 1:Here's a quick review of our five-step approach to combating imposter syndrome. Step number one acknowledge it and normalize it. Step number two reframe your thinking. Step number three document and celebrate those wins. Step number four seek out mentorship and peer support. And finally, step number five and peer support. And finally, step number five reflect and revisit your strengths as you move forward. Shift this whole thing from self-doubt to God belief, which will instill self-belief in you. The more you are rooted and anchored in God, the more belief you'll have in what God has already put inside of you when that imposter syndrome pops up, remember your why. Why did you start leading in the first place? Remind yourself of your mission, your values and the positive impact that you are meant to make on the world. I want to challenge you to take one action today, in the next 24 hours, that directly counters your imposter syndrome. Maybe that's asking for feedback, sharing an achievement with a friend or your team, or taking a moment to reflect on your wins, whatever it is, take that step.
Speaker 1:Imposter syndrome it's not a permanent state. It's a feeling, not a fact. You are capable, qualified and chosen for the role and opportunity you have. For his reason, you don't have to have all the answers, you just need to have the courage to keep moving forward. Let me finish with a few thoughts, and maybe these will help you with whatever you are facing right now. It's not the most gifted now. It's not the most gifted, strongest or smartest who succeed. It's the most consistent and persistent.
Speaker 1:Other people's degrees, certifications and pieces of paper don't discount your experience. Everyone, including me, has had to fake it till you make it in a particular season. You are not supposed to know everything. You just have to be committed to putting in the work, to finding out what you need to know. Most problems are not really that big. The problems just need to be broken down into smaller challenges that can be worked on incrementally.
Speaker 1:Building a business platform or a movement. Whatever you're doing is a lot easier than it was a decade ago, and stop comparing yourself to the wrong people, those with decades more experience than you. You may not have decades of experience, but you have experience, and that counts for something. I'm saying this to you because I believe in you. You are capable, you are worthy and you are enough. So step out today with confidence. Lead from your strengths and know that the world needs your unique gifting. Whatever God has put on your heart, whatever opportunity is in front of you, lean into that with confidence and courage.
Speaker 1:I hope this episode impacted and inspired you. Send me a DM and let me know. I read every message that comes in. Make sure you screenshot this episode about imposter syndrome, share it with someone and post it to your social media accounts. Don't forget to tag me so I can give you a repost. I know there is someone you know who needs to hear this episode. Thank you for sharing, subscribing and rating the podcast. Seriously, that means the world to me. Look for new episodes to release every month. You won't want to miss those. Thank you for taking the time to invest in yourself. You are worth it. Remember, the best time to rise and lead is now. Thank you.