The Inner World of An Introvert and the Battle with Imposter Syndrome

A Journey of Self-Discovery

One minute, I'm strutting around like I own the world, and the next, I'm convinced that any moment now, someone will burst through the door, point at me and shout, "Imposter alert!". Yeah, that’s right! You’ve guessed it! It’s the imposter syndrome I wanna talk about.

Today, I want to share a personal journey that has led me to a profound insight: the imposter syndrome is a shared experience, even among the most accomplished individuals. As I watched the docufilm about Lewis Capaldi, a singer who openly discussed his struggles with imposter syndrome, I found solace in the fact that I'm not alone. In fact, up to 82% of people have experienced imposter syndrome at some point in their lives.

Imposter Syndrome: A Societal Norm

When I started my first business over 13 years ago, the imposter syndrome hit me like a ton of bricks. The constant fear of being exposed as a fraud and the belief that my success was merely a stroke of luck weighed heavily on my shoulders. Little did I know that high achievers, including renowned figures like Serena Williams, Lady Gaga, Michelle Obama, and Tom Hanks, experienced the same doubts and fears. Recently, Lewis Capaldi reminded me that the imposter syndrome is not a personal failing, but rather a societal norm. If they can feel like an imposter, then surely, I'm in good company.

An Introspective Connection

As an introverted entrepreneur, I've often felt an extra layer of vulnerability when starting new ventures or putting myself out there. Our introverted nature, marked by introspection and self-reflection, can amplify the imposter syndrome's impact. We tend to ruminate over our perceived failures, replaying scenarios in our minds and questioning our worthiness. However, the movie about Lewis Capaldi and my own experiences have shown me that introversion and imposter syndrome can coexist without hindering our progress.

If you’ve made it so far, don’t give up. It’s getting interesting.

When You Think You Know Everything & The Dunning-Kruger Effect

But why does imposter syndrome happen?

Credit goes to a quirky cognitive bias: “Dunning-Kruger Effect.”

Picture this: you start a new business/project/task, full of hope and excitement, thinking you've got it all figured out. You're brimming with confidence, thinking you're the next Elon Musk. But as time goes on and you delve deeper into your field, you suddenly realise just how much you don't know. It's like discovering a vast ocean of knowledge while you're standing there with a tiny bucket. That, my friends, is the Dunning-Kruger effect in action. Ironically, the more you become an expert, the more you may feel like an imposter.

In my view, felling like an imposter may actually be a signal that you’re READY.

So, my friends, are you ready to beat it up?

Understanding this effect is key to overcoming imposter syndrome. Once you grasp the concept that the more you learn, the more you realise how much you don't know, it becomes easier to embrace your insecurities. So, instead of beating yourself up for not knowing everything, celebrate the fact that you're expanding your horizons and growing as an individual.

However, through my own experiences and watching the Lewis Capaldi movie, I've come to realise that introversion and imposter syndrome don't have to be a package deal. In fact, our introverted nature can be a superpower in overcoming imposter syndrome. We have the ability to connect deeply with others, to listen attentively, and to empathise with their struggles. So, instead of hiding behind our introverted tendencies, let's use them to our advantage and create meaningful connections that help us overcome imposter syndrome together.

Now, as I embark on this new business venture, I've noticed a remarkable shift in my relationship with imposter syndrome. Perhaps it's because I've made peace with the fact that feeling like an imposter is a normal part of the journey. Or maybe it's because I've realised that embracing my vulnerabilities and sharing them openly with my clients actually strengthens our bond. After all, we're all in this imposter syndrome boat together, navigating the choppy waters of self-doubt and emerging stronger on the other side.

The Masterplan

Unfortunately, there’s no magical cure for imposter syndrome that’ll make it completely go away. But here are some strategies that have helped me along my journey:

1.     Recognise and acknowledge your achievements: Take a moment to reflect on your accomplishments, both big and small, strong performance reviews, high grades, compliments, etc. Write them down and revisit them whenever imposter syndrome creeps in. See how far you’ve come and how seriously capable you are. Remember, you have earned your place through hard work, dedication, and skill.

2.     Reframe your perspective: Instead of dwelling on your perceived shortcomings, focus on your growth and the progress you've made. Understand that everyone, including the high achievers you admire, has moments of self-doubt. It's how we respond to these feelings that defines us. Remember the stat? Up to 82% of people are afflicted with imposter syndrome. It’s not a personal shortcoming. It’s a societal norm.

3.     Seek support and share your experiences: Opening up about your struggles can be liberating. Connect with like-minded individuals who understand the imposter syndrome and share your journey. Remember, you're not alone in this. Also, remember that high achievers STILL experience it. Their courage inspired me to spread the message today.

4.     Embrace vulnerability and authenticity: Let go of perfectionism and accept that it's okay to be imperfect. Apply the rule 70-20-10 (70% of our work will be mediocre, 20% will suck and 10% will be amazing). Embracing vulnerability allows us to connect with others on a deeper level and fosters a sense of authenticity. Remember, it's our unique qualities and experiences that make us stand out, imposter syndrome and all.

5.     Celebrate your failures: Failure is not a reflection of your worth; it's an opportunity to learn and grow. Embrace your failures as valuable lessons and steppingstones towards success. Remember, if you are avoiding failure, you are avoiding success.

6.     Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself. Treat yourself with the same understanding, love, and forgiveness you would offer to a friend. Understand that self-doubt is a natural part of growth, and it's essential to be patient and compassionate with yourself.

"Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we'll ever do." (Brené Braun)

I would add another one as a bonus:

7.     Have a locked up imaginary cupboard/shed/treasure chest where you lock it away when the villain is bothering you too much.

Embracing Insecurities for Growth

So, my fellow friends, I raise a toast to the imposter syndrome. It's not something to be feared or hidden away. Instead, I treat it as a quirky companion on my path to success. It’s like a sneaky little gremlin that pops up at the most unexpected moments, whispering doubts in my ear. But now, instead of succumbing to its grip, I give it a playful wink and say, "Nice try, imposter syndrome, but you're not fooling me today!" And off it goes locked away in the imaginary cupboard.

And you know what? This newfound attitude has made all the difference. It has allowed me to take bolder steps, to put myself out there without constantly second-guessing my every move. Sure, there are still moments when imposter syndrome tries to rear its head, but I've learned to laugh it off and remind myself that I'm not alone in this struggle.

So, my fellow introverted friends, let's embrace our quirks, insecurities and imposter syndrome tendencies. Let's celebrate the fact that we're part of a community that understands the ups and downs of starting a new business and the rollercoaster ride of self-doubt that comes with it.

Remember, the imposter syndrome may knock on your door from time to time, but it's up to you to decide if you want to let it in or show it the way out. Laugh at its antics, acknowledge its presence, and then continue on your journey with confidence and resilience.

And as we navigate this exciting and challenging world, let's support and uplift one another. Share your stories, your triumphs, and your struggles with fellow introverts who understand the unique journey we're on. Together, we can create a safe space where imposter syndrome loses its power and where we can thrive as introverted entrepreneurs.

So, my friends, let's raise our chai lattes and toast to embracing the imposter syndrome. Cheers to you, introverted trailblazers! Let's show the world what we're made of.