Stop fakin it. You already made it!

You’re a VP. Highly respected. Extremely effective. And you know it — So why do you feel like at any moment, someone will walk in the room and figure out who you REALLY are?

Many refer to this as Imposter Syndrome, or  just good ol’ “second guessing.” And worse, most don’t talk about it at all: crediting their success to dumb luck, or declaring they managed to bluff their way through.

Speaking as a second guesser, myself. I find myself saying: ” I”m just giving the credit away, where its due.” The problem is, if I’m not giving myself the kudos, then who is?

Here’s some good habits I’m focusing on lately. Take what you need, and maybe there’s a little something that will help YOU prove to YOURSELF, that you’re not the imposter you think you are:

1. If you think like a fake, then you’ll surely act like one: This may sound ridiculous, but remember to practice recognizing what you have already accomplished. Out loud and in front of the mirror if you can stomach it. You already have a seat at the table, so act like it.
2. Resist the temptation to speak of your short comings in general conversations, (as if you’re just stating the obvious.) Be purposeful and aware of your thoughts. No wonder you suspect you’re not the real deal. You’re always saying your not!
3. They say it takes 21 days to break a bad habit. That might be true, however I suspect it takes even longer to form a new good one. So double down. When you feel yourself starting the negative chatter. Replace it with two praises. On the spot. Be intentional.

Reinventing yourself, to yourself, is daunting. But its totally worth it. Just start. Its a domino effect. And guess what, I bet you’ll find yourself the person that everyone else, already knows you are.