Raquel Gomes, the Founder & CEO of Stafi, discusses the feelings of being an imposter that many successful women face despite their accomplishments. She shares her personal experience of not feeling like a C-suite executive and being plagued by self-doubt. The phenomenon, first described in 1978, persists among women, women of color, and other marginalized groups, contributing to feelings of inadequacy even in the face of achievement.
Gomes attributes some of the self-doubt experienced by women to cultural programming and societal expectations that create a narrow definition of success. She recalls her upbringing in a Latin American, religious, and conservative family in Brazil, where she felt pressure to meet certain expectations as a woman. The disparity between her achievements and internalized self-image led to feelings of being an imposter, a common experience among successful women.
In the workplace, biases and stereotypes can exacerbate imposter feelings among women business owners or executives. Gomes references a Bloomberg report showing that only 11.8% of C-suite roles in the S&P Global Total Market Index were held by women in 2023, down from 12.2% in 2022. This gender gap can create insecurity among women in leadership positions and perpetuate feelings of not belonging.
Recognizing and naming imposter feelings, redefining success on one’s own terms, seeking supportive networks, and celebrating achievements are practical strategies to overcome feelings of being an imposter at work. Gomes emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, seeking support from coaches, mentors, or therapy, and acknowledging and celebrating one’s accomplishments to combat imposter feelings. Through consistent actions and a supportive environment, individuals can shift their mindset and appreciate their achievements.
Gomes encourages fellow businesswomen to take action to counteract imposter feelings and celebrate their accomplishments. She highlights the importance of not living up to external expectations and instead focusing on making oneself proud. By acknowledging and addressing imposter feelings, women can cultivate confidence and enjoy the success they have achieved. It is essential to seek guidance from qualified healthcare providers for personalized advice and support.
