I have never received as many requests from Women on Fire to cover a topic as I did with the Impostor Syndrome.
This phenomenon reflects how a shockingly high number — estimates range to 70 percent — of accomplished women feel as though they are faking it in their careers and are doomed to being discovered.
Our March Book To Live By selection looks at this sneaky form of self-sabotage that can show itself in many forms. It causes so much suffering by undercutting confidence and stirring feelings of shame.
It is my pleasure to introduce you to a book from a leading expert on the topic:
The Secret Thoughts of Successful Women: Why Capable People Suffer from the Impostor Syndrome and How to Thrive in Spite of It, by Valerie Young, Ed.D.
Dr. Young has spent more than 30 years researching this phenomenon and helping to find life-changing solutions.
Key offerings in the book include:
- Subtle ways society puts down women that affect how they perceive themselves
- Surprising traits that reflect feelings of being a fraud
- Scenarios commonly faced by women that lower their self-esteem and expose vulnerabilities
- Defense mechanisms the Impostor Syndrome elicits, such as overworking, never finishing a project and procrastination
- End-of-chapter activities to help you change your thoughts and actions
It is my fondest hope that all of you conquer any feelings of self-doubt and see how amazing you really are!
