Imposter Syndrome In Senior Roles
Episode 18: Soultuitive - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome with Clare Josa
Clare Josa on why imposter feelings get louder as you get more senior, and what to do about it that is not positive thinking.
How do I deal with imposter syndrome as a leader?
Also on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
What this episode covers
If you often feel like you do not deserve your leadership position despite your track record, this episode is for you. Clare Josa, the UK's leading authority on imposter syndrome, shares her experience and research on why successful people frequently face these doubts. She discusses common triggers, the risks of ignoring imposter feelings, and practical steps leaders can take to reduce self-doubt. Clare also explains how integrating mindfulness and meditation supports this process. This conversation offers straightforward advice and encouragement to help leaders recognise and manage imposter syndrome so they can lead with greater confidence.
Who this is for: General managers and senior operators who struggle with self-doubt despite their achievements and want practical ways to manage imposter syndrome in leadership roles.
Key takeaways
- Imposter syndrome often affects high achievers more than actual frauds due to their heightened self-expectations and standards.
- Identifying specific trigger points can help leaders recognise when imposter feelings are likely to arise and manage them proactively.
- Taking small, consistent actions (#DoOneThing) can reduce imposter syndrome and build confidence over time.
- Ignoring imposter syndrome can lead to burnout, lost opportunities, and groupthink within teams.
- Combining practical leadership skills with mindfulness and meditation techniques supports overcoming imposter syndrome effectively.
Ever battled with that nagging self-doubt despite your accomplishments? Join us on a transformative journey as we navigate the tricky terrain of imposter syndrome with our special guest, Clare Josa, a leading UK authority on the topic. Clare’s fusion of her engineering background with spiritual and meditative practices brings a unique approach to tackling this issue. We delve deep into her personal experiences, how imposter syndrome affected her life, and the steps she took to overcome it - an inspiring tale sure to give you courage to face your own imposter feelings head-on. Let's go, let's overcome our inner imposter together!
Clare is considered the UK's leading authority on Imposter Syndrome, having specialized in it for nearly twenty years, including leading the landmark 2019 Imposter Syndrome Research Study and publishing her latest book: Ditching Imposter Syndrome, which already has readers in over 30 countries. Clare Josa is a keynote speaker and the author of eight books.
In 2008 she qualified as a Meditation Teacher and in 2015 she completed her Yoga Teacher Training. She is now continuing that training to the post-graduate level and will qualify as a restorative yoga teacher - essential for those of us who are super-stressed. She has spent over a decade specialising in empowering passionate world-changers to do the ‘inside work’ so that you can get on with making a difference in the world.
Important Links:
Web: www.ClareJosa.com
Scorecard and Research Study links: https://soultuitiveleadership.com/wow/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clarejosa/
Episode Highlights
[0:00] Intro
[1:55] Let’s get to know Clare more
[6:12] Why do successful people feel imposter syndrome more than those who are actually frauds?
[10:32] The cause of imposter syndrome
[20:05] #DoOneThing and Clare’s research
[23:55] Lost commercial opportunity with great people, burnout and groupthink
[26:10] What should we be doing?
[31:46] The trigger points to imposter syndrome
[36:45] Ditching Imposter Syndrome—unpacking the book
[43:43] Outro
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Questions managers ask about this episode
How can I recognise imposter syndrome in myself as a leader?
Imposter syndrome often presents as persistent self-doubt despite clear achievements. Leaders may feel they are not as competent as others perceive or fear being exposed as a fraud. Recognising specific trigger points, such as new challenges or criticism, can help identify when these feelings arise so you can address them early.
Why do successful leaders experience imposter syndrome more than others?
Successful leaders often set very high standards for themselves and are more aware of their limitations, which can fuel imposter feelings. Unlike actual frauds, they genuinely doubt their abilities despite evidence of competence, leading to a cycle of self-questioning and stress.
What practical steps can I take to overcome imposter syndrome?
Clare Josa recommends starting with small, manageable actions (#DoOneThing) that build confidence gradually. Combining these with regular mindfulness or meditation practices helps reduce stress and creates space to challenge negative self-beliefs. Consistency over time is key to shifting mindset and behaviour.
What are the risks of not addressing imposter syndrome as a leader?
Ignoring imposter syndrome can lead to burnout, missed commercial opportunities, and groupthink within teams. Leaders may avoid necessary decisions or innovation due to fear of failure, which can stall progress and harm team performance.