Talent can be a great confidence booster for a professional or someone growing in their field. Conversely, growing success sometimes can contribute to many insecurities. Imposter syndrome, which refers to a denial of qualifications despite talent or proven success, affects a lot of people, especially people in positions of power.
As business paradigms change, the mentality of people in the industry has as well. While intelligence played a factor in the ability to create innovative products, today’s industry is moving towards a customer priority approach. Putting customer interactions and relationships first has caused many to have to transition from logic-based intelligence to using emotional intelligence; when the employee cannot manage their emotional intelligence, it hinders the confidence in their ability to perform their job. Luckily, there are ways to use emotional intelligence to combat oncoming imposter syndrome.
Self-awareness is key for any success, especially when dealing with emotions. Everyone is unsure of themselves at some point, but the ability to reflect and identify which emotions are rational and which ones are reactive is important. As a thought enters the brain, the amygdala will create an initial reaction that may provoke insecurity, but using emotional intelligence utilizes the neocortex, allowing them to reflect and put things in perspective based on logical evidence. Doing so will calm that voice of uncertainty. If that does not work, seeking the perspective of others can be a great help in regaining confidence. People consult others that they can trust, so why not ask someone else’s opinion about whatever is creating the anxiety? One of two things will happen: either the person will validate their obvious talents, or they will give the necessary criticism that will build missing confidence and minimize imposter syndrome.
Taking it easy also helps. It takes emotional intelligence to understand “I may not be where I wish” and persist. That understanding will not only help disarm the inner fear but create a higher drive to get to the desired skill level.
It’s human nature to have doubts, but utilizing emotional intelligence and self-awareness will help focus on success rather than insecurity. Using these tips, employees and executives alike can overcome imposter syndrome and validate their positive traits.