This article is part of a series published on our LinkedIn account by guest writers. Today's article was written by Elaine Said, IMA Norway on 27th September 2024.
Have you ever felt like you don’t belong, or that you've ended up somewhere amazing but don’t feel like you have the right to be there, or that you’re muddling along and unsure if you're doing anything right? These are all signs of imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome, as defined by Wikipedia, “is a psychological experience of intellectual and professional fraudulence,” although there is no official psychiatric diagnosis.
I have sometimes felt this way during my working life, and somehow, the older I get, the more experience and knowledge I gain, the more I feel it. I have 30 years of experience as an Executive Assistant to various high-level professionals, and this extensive experience speaks to my capabilities and the trust placed in me by these esteemed professionals. However, I sometimes still think, "How did I get here? Can I do this job? Am I good enough?" These thoughts often run through my head, and then I need to remind myself that I do belong here. I was interviewed and chosen for this job, and deep down, I know I am capable. But it is human to have doubts.
After working in Brussels for 13 years, I was transferred with my job to Norway for a four-year contract. I fell in love with Norway and didn’t want to leave. Would I be able to stay in Norway and find a job even though I was not yet fluent in Norwegian? It turned out to be possible and, in fact, quite easy for me! Right timing? Just luck? Or is it down to fate, and we get what we deserve in life? Or maybe it’s because I have the knowledge, experience, and capabilities to do my job.
Apparently, personality traits such as perfectionism, which is one of mine, are typical for imposter syndrome. Perfectionists set exceedingly high standards for themselves and often feel that anything less than perfect is a failure. This mindset can lead to a persistent sense of inadequacy, no matter how successful one might be. One way I have found to overcome imposter syndrome is to avoid comparing myself to others. Additionally, I try to concentrate more on my achievements instead of always striving for more and setting myself impossible goals. Celebrating my successes, no matter how small, helps to build my confidence and reminds me of my capabilities.
In a previous job, I had a mentor who helped ease my feelings of inadequacy by providing guidance and reassurance. Mentors can offer a different perspective, one that is often more objective and encouraging. Additionally, seeking feedback from colleagues and supervisors can be beneficial. Constructive feedback helps to identify areas for improvement, but it also highlights strengths and accomplishments you might have overlooked. Understanding that everyone has their own unique path and challenges can also be comforting. Everyone experiences moments of doubt, and even those who seem most confident have likely faced their own struggles with self-belief.
Moreover, building a supportive network of peers can provide both professional and emotional support. Sharing experiences and challenges with others who might be feeling the same way can create a sense of camaraderie and reduce feelings of isolation. Lastly, self-care practices such as mindfulness, exercise, and adequate rest are crucial for maintaining a healthy balance and reducing stress, which can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy.
In conclusion, imposter syndrome is a common experience that many people face, regardless of their achievements or position. By focusing on your accomplishments, seeking support, and maintaining a healthy perspective, it is possible to manage and overcome these feelings. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and with time and effort, you can build a stronger sense of self-assurance and professional satisfaction.
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This article is penned by Elaine Said, Executive Assistant at DNV and member of IMA of IMA Norway.
The Guest Writer series features contributions from IMA members worldwide, showcasing the diverse experiences and expertise of management assistants within our network. Each piece offers unique perspectives, practical advice, and personal reflections from professionals in the field. The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.
