“Overcoming Impostor Syndrome at Work: Ask Philippa for Advice”

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Feeling anxious and intimidated while talking to senior figures is a common struggle for many individuals looking to advance in their careers. One person shared their experience of rising through the ranks to a lead role but still feeling like an impostor in meetings, where they feel inadequate compared to others who excel in this setting.

Coming from a background where communication and self-expression were not fostered, this individual grapples with feelings of shame and anxiety before and after meetings. Add small children who disrupt sleep patterns into the mix, and it’s easy to see why attending meetings and building relationships can feel like an uphill battle.

Philippa, an expert in the field, offered some reassuring advice. Impostor syndrome, she explained, is a sign of growth and stepping beyond one’s comfort zone. She encouraged the individual to challenge the negative self-talk and not take it too seriously.

Meetings are skills that can be learned, Philippa emphasized, especially if they were not ingrained in one’s upbringing. The feeling of inadequacy or the fear of not measuring up in discussions is often a remnant of past experiences where confidence was not nurtured.

Rather than expecting meetings to feel effortless immediately, Philippa suggested tolerating the discomfort for now and gradually building confidence over time. She highlighted a phenomenon called the “liking gap,” where individuals underestimate how much others appreciate them, echoing the sentiment that one’s perceived shortcomings are often exaggerated.

In conclusion, the key takeaway was to show up and persevere through discomfort, even if self-doubt lingers. Building confidence through practice and positive affirmations can gradually shift the narrative and boost one’s presence in professional settings.