Overcoming Imposter Syndrome - #405

<p>Niki & CJ discuss overcoming imposter syndrome as a coach. The address what it is, why it's normal, when you may be beyond your abilities, and practical tips to deal with it. Learn more about overcoming imposter syndrome as a coach.</p> <div> <p>Doubt, fear, and anxiety is normal. With coaching, or really any venture, you will likely experience internal self-doubt but may also have a fear of being discovered or exposed as a fraud or imposter.</p> <p>This appears and persists despite evidence to the contrary. Regardless of accomplishments, success, credentials, you still have a feeling of not being qualified.</p> <p>You're in good company, as this feeling is nearly universal. This is a sign you care, and literature suggests that those who face these feelings are less likely to cheat and <a href= "https://barbell-logic.com/how-to-not-totally-suck-a-people-business/"> more likely to work harder to improve</a>.</p> <p>These feelings have become so prevalent that an entire industry has arisen to overcome imposter syndrome.</p> <p>These feelings appear or heighten especially around 2 phenomena: challenging obstacles & stress accumulation.</p> <p>When a client quits, you get a client who is a bit outside your comfort zone, or you're asked to do something novel but generally within the realm of your skill set, these feelings will likely arise.</p> <p>Obstacles are opportunities for growth. If you successfully overcome a novel challenge--heck, even if you fail but try your hardest--you will learn and improve as a coach.</p> <p>It is true, of course, that there are challenges that are truly beyond your abilities. How can you think about these?</p> <p>You can ask yourself: Am I as qualified and ready as I can reasonably be? You could also add a "...yet." For example, "I'm not qualified to coach professional powerlifters...yet." This allows for the possibility for growth.</p> <p>Stress can accumulate, create heightened negative emotions, and leave us with feelings of being a fraud or imposter at work. You may feel like yo