According to Psychology Today, imposter syndrome, first identified among high-achieving women in the 1970s, continues to affect many individuals, particularly those in leadership roles. 

For women of color ascending the ranks in higher education, imposter syndrome can be a quiet but persistent challenge. Despite your accomplishments and recognition, the fear of inadequacy can loom, leaving you questioning your abilities and contributions. 

In this article, we’ll discuss the triggers of imposter syndrome and offer strategies for overcoming its grip. 

Understanding Imposter Syndrome

At its core, imposter syndrome is characterized by feelings of self-doubt and a persistent fear of being exposed as a fraud despite evidence of success. It can manifest as a nagging voice undermining confidence and competence, leading individuals to discount their achievements and attribute their success to luck or deception. 

What does Imposter Syndrome feel like?

Imposter syndrome can manifest in a variety of ways, most often as:

• Persistent self-doubt
• Fear of failure or making mistakes
• Difficulty internalizing success
• Overemphasis on others’ opinions
• Perfectionism and fear of being “found out”

What Causes Imposter Syndrome?

1. Family Upbringing: Cultural expectations and familial dynamics significantly shape individuals’ beliefs about success and self-worth. Messages received in childhood can influence one’s susceptibility to imposter syndrome later in life.
2. New Work Opportunities: Transitioning into leadership roles or unfamiliar environments can exacerbate imposter syndrome. The pressure to perform in uncharted territory can intensify feelings of fraudulence and self-doubt. 
3. Personality: Certain personality traits, such as perfectionism or high sensitivity to criticism, can predispose individuals to imposter syndrome. These traits may amplify feelings of inadequacy and undermine confidence. 
4. Social Anxiety: Fear of judgment or rejection by peers can fuel imposter syndrome, particularly in environments where individuals feel they must prove themselves or conform to societal expectations. 

Imposter Syndrome Triggers

While imposter syndrome can arise from various sources, there are common triggers that individuals in leadership roles, particularly women of color in higher education, may encounter: 

• Calling Attention to One’s Successes: Do you feel uncomfortable or unworthy when your achievements are acknowledged? Women of color in leadership roles may struggle with self-promotion due to cultural expectations or experiences of discrimination. 
• Failure After a String of Successes: The pressure to maintain a track record of success can intensify imposter syndrome. A setback or failure, even minor, can trigger feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt despite past accomplishments. 
• Perfectionism: Perfectionism is a common trigger for imposter syndrome, particularly in high-achieving individuals. Do you feel immense pressure to excel in every aspect of your work? Are you afraid that any perceived flaw or mistake will expose you as a fraud?
• Tokenism: In environments where women of color are underrepresented or marginalized, they may experience tokenism, being “the only” person of their race and/or gender in leadership positions. Being singled out for your diversity may seem like validation of your skills and expertise, but it can also amplify feelings of imposter syndrome. Do you worry that you were hired or promoted solely to fulfill a diversity quota rather than based on merit or qualifications?
• Microaggressions or Stereotype Threats: Microaggressions, subtle forms of discrimination or bias, can erode confidence and contribute to imposter syndrome among women of color in leadership roles. Whether they’re subjected to stereotypical assumptions about their abilities or face subtle forms of exclusion or belittlement, these experiences can reinforce feelings of being an outsider or imposter. The constant vigilance to defy stereotypes and prove oneself can create a pervasive sense of self-doubt and inadequacy, hindering professional growth and fulfillment.

5 Strategies for Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

While overcoming imposter syndrome may seem daunting, implementing these strategies can help reclaim confidence and resilience:

1. Open up & Share your Feelings: Talking openly about imposter syndrome with trusted colleagues and mentors can help normalize the experience and alleviate feelings of isolation. You may even be surprised to learn that those you look up to experience imposter syndrome, too. Looking for a community to share these experiences with? Consider joining our Legacy Builders: WOC In Higher Ed Leadership Circle.
2. Accept Positive Feedback: Instead of dismissing compliments or downplaying achievements, practice acknowledging and internalizing positive feedback from others. 
3. Keep a Success Log: Documenting successes, accomplishments, and moments of validation can serve as tangible reminders of one’s competence and progress. 
4. Embrace Positive Self-Talk: Challenge negative self-talk by reframing thoughts and focusing on personal growth rather than external validation. 
5. Take Baby Steps To Break Out of Your Comfort Zone: Gradually exposing yourself to challenges and new experiences can build confidence and resilience over time. 

Imposter syndrome is a common yet often unspoken challenge faced by women of color in leadership roles in higher education. By understanding the triggers and underlying causes of imposter syndrome and implementing strategies for overcoming it, these leaders can reclaim their confidence and recognize the value they bring to their roles. 

Moreover, joining a supportive peer group tailored specifically for women of color in higher education leadership, like Legacy Builders: WOC In Higher Ed Leadership Circle, can provide a safe space for shared experiences, mentorship, and empowerment. Together, we can confront imposter syndrome and thrive as confident, resilient academic leaders.