Leadership

Christie Kerner: How Leaders Can Overcome Imposter Syndrome

September 5, 2024

By: Joshua Finley

Feelings of doubt and uncertainty can plague even thet experienced leaders. This phenomenon, known as imposter syndrome, causes people to question their abilities and credentials despite objective evidence of their competence and achievements. According to Christie Kerner, founder of leadership development firm Modern Leadership Academy, imposter syndrome is incredibly common – even at the highest levels of business.

“There is magic in taking yourself out of the mindset of thinking you are the only one that feels unclear in navigating the challenges of leading people,” notes Christie. “In my coaching practice I find that people experience some level of imposter syndrome, even at high executive levels.”

As an expert in leadership skills and founder of Modern Leadership Academy, Christie understands the roots of imposter syndrome and has identified three key strategies for overcoming those feelings of self-doubt.

Center on the Problem at Hand

The first step, according to Christie, is centering yourself on the problem you need to solve. With imposter syndrome, it’s easy to get caught up in anxious thoughts about one’s own perceived shortcomings rather than focusing productively on the task at hand. However, taking even small, concrete steps can help dispel feelings of ambiguity.

“Finding the first few steps, even, to tackle the pressing items can take away the feeling of ambiguity that is at the root of imposter syndrome,” notes Christie. “Doing that starts with getting clear on what the problem is that you are trying to solve.”

By shifting perspectives from internal doubts to the specifics of an issue that needs addressing, leaders can start to feel more empowered and in control. Breaking larger obstacles down into manageable pieces also builds momentum and confidence over time.

Christie Kerner How Leaders Can Overcome Imposter Syndrome — Photo Courtesy: Christie Kerner

Focus Outward, Not Inward

Another key tactic Christie recommends is focusing your attention outward on others rather than getting trapped in self-criticism. When leading a team or organization, the role is inherently about more than just oneself.

“The truth is, leadership is about others, not us,” says Christie. “When we shift our internal chatter away from whether or not we are OK and, instead, focus on the experience of others and finding ways to help them it will quickly quell our anxiety.”

Rather than obsessed over their perceived flaws or credentials, effective leaders practice empathy and work to support their colleagues. This change in mindset moves the mental conversation from fears of inadequacy to strategies for enabling others’ success. Adopting an outward perspective centered on team or customer needs can drown out doubts about one’s self.

Recognize You’re Not Alone

Finally, Christie stresses the importance of acknowledging how widespread imposter syndrome truly is, even among highly respected leaders. Feeling like an imposter often stems from the misperception that one is uniquely flawed or unqualified.

“Know you are not alone,” emphasizes Christie. “There is magic in taking yourself out of the mindset of thinking you are the only one that feels unclear in navigating the challenges of leading people.”

By understanding imposter syndrome as a virtually universal experience, leaders can detach themselves from the stigma. Realizing doubts and uncertainties are natural human emotions, not objective reflections of ability, can help shift mindsets from harsh self-criticism to self-compassion.

As the founder of Modern Leadership Academy, Christie coaches professionals worldwide on developing their leadership potential through personalized programs. With over 30 years experience leading teams and companies, she understands both the psychological roots and practical remedies for imposter syndrome. Her website offers additional resources for combating self-doubt and cultivating strong leadership presence.