Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
A lot of people deal with self-doubt at work. If you feel imposter syndrome creeping in, try the mindful practices shared by Lindsey and Rosie in this episode of Invisible Tools. Each is designed to help you build confidence in your abilities and remind you that you've earned this opportunity.
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Hey Rosie. Hey, check your sleeve. I just started a new role at a great company and I'm really excited, but I've been experiencing some imposter syndrome. Any tips for overcoming this sense that I'm not good enough? These are getting good. I had be very shocked if there's a single person out there who hasn't experienced that feeling of self-doubt in their intellect or skills while actively being a high achieving person. Without a doubt, Rosie. So the first thing I'll say to this person is, congratulations on the new job. Yeah. Congrats. Lean into that excitement and enjoy it. And here's some tools to help you work through that very common imposter syndrome. First mantras. I'm a big fan of mantras. Things like I was hired for a reason. I learn and grow every day in this role. And another one from a different episode. My personal favorite progress, not perfection. Next morning, meditations. Oh. I would've said that. Morning. Meditations can get you into a positive mindset. When I find meditations I really like, I save them and listen to my favorites. Over and over. Headspace has a huge rotation of meditations that they push at the start of every day, too. Got to love Headspace. Rosie's are my favorites. Next, celebrate easy wins. When you feel overwhelmed or make a mistake or have a bad day, double down on the seemingly simple things that are easy wins to get back on track and feel successful. Things like being on time for every meeting, having a positive attitude or making sure you're prepared for every client call by reading through any background documents or researching attendees. A lot of people skip the basics and small wins add up. Finally swap. Sorry, with thank you. Often when people get down on themselves and feel imposter syndrome, they apologize too much to change your focus to the positive. Instead of saying, I'm sorry I made a mistake on that spreadsheet, try saying, thank you for your patience while I figure this out. This is so great. I love this so much. I love celebrating easy wins. Taking that time each day to reflect on your accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem, this can really boost your confidence and remind you of your capabilities. I also want to highlight self-compassion. Mindful self-compassion reminds you that everyone experiences moments of self-doubt. I sure do. I mean, don't we all? Rather than criticizing yourself, practice compassion, acknowledge your feelings, and reassure yourself that it's okay to not know everything. The next one, stay present. When self-doubt creeps in, bring yourself back to the present moment. Imposter syndrome often comes from worrying about the future. Focus on the task at hand and congratulate yourself with each step forward. Yay. Yes. And the last one, mindful affirmations. Develop positive and empowering affirmations that resonate with you. Repeat them to yourself, especially in moments of self-doubt. For example, I am capable. I am...
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About your teachers
- Andy PuddicomeHeadspace Co-founderMore about Andy
A former Buddhist monk, Andy has guided people in meditation and mindfulness for 20 years. In his mission to make these practices accessible to all, he co-created the Headspace app in 2010.
- Eve Lewis PrietoHeadspace Director of MeditationMore about Eve
Eve is a mindfulness teacher, overseeing Headspace’s meditation curriculum. She is passionate about sharing meditation to help others feel less stressed and experience more compassion in their lives.
- Dora KamauMeditation TeacherMore about Dora
As a meditation teacher, Dora encourages others to live, breathe, and be with the fullness of their experiences. She loves meditation’s power to create community and bring clarity to people’s minds.
- Kessonga GiscombeMeditation TeacherMore about Kessonga
Kessonga has been an acupuncturists, therapist, and meditation teacher, working to bring mindfulness to the diverse populations of the world.
- Rosie AcostaMeditation TeacherMore about Rosie
Rosie Acosta has studied yoga and mindfulness for more than 20 years and taught for over a decade. Rosie’s mission is to help others overcome adversity and experience radical love.

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