Ep 151: The Five Ways Imposter Syndrome Shows Up & What to Do About It

The Purposeful Career Podcast

Ever felt like a fraud despite your accomplishments? Do you tend to attribute your success to luck rather than your abilities? This episode is for you. We're diving deep into the intriguing world of imposter syndrome, guided by the remarkable work of Dr. Valerie Young - the world's foremost expert on this topic. By shedding light on the five distinct types of imposter syndrome - Natural Genius, Superhero, Soloist, Perfectionist, and Expert - we aim to help you recognize its presence in your life and equip you with the tools to break the cycle.
The superhero and soloist types are particularly fascinating. Superheroes are workaholics who derive their sense of self-worth from their productivity. Soloists, on the other hand, feel they must accomplish tasks independently, fearing that seeking help would expose them as a fraud. We discuss the importance of setting boundaries, fostering self-validation, and finding joy in pursuits outside work, providing practical strategies for both types to overcome these self-imposed limitations.
Lastly, we take a hard look at perfectionism, a trait common to many grappling with imposter syndrome. Perfectionists set impossibly high standards and view any failure as a personal failing, which in turn fuels their sense of fraudulence. However, identifying triggers, embracing imperfection, and adopting self-kindness can make a significant difference. We close the episode with a thoughtful discussion on these strategies, aiming to inspire you to approach your personal and professional life with more grace and less guilt. Tune in, let's talk about embracing our imperfections and owning our success.

Do you have a question you'd like to have addressed on the podcast? Want to give us some feedback or suggestions? Click here to send us a text.

Follow us on Instagram @thepurposefulcareer.
Learn more about Next Level, our monthly membership at https://www.thepurposefulcareer.com/nextlevel.

Luvut

1. Understanding Imposter Syndrome and Types (00:00:00)

2. Types of Imposter Syndrome (00:07:27)

3. The Superhero and Soloist Phenomenon (00:15:52)

4. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Perfectionism (00:28:36)