She Leads Confidently Karen Barno

Welcome to Episode 117 of the She Leads Confidently. Today, we're diving deep into the topic of imposter syndrome—a psychological pattern where individuals doubt their accomplishments and have a persistent fear of being exposed as a "fraud." Despite evidence of their competence, those experiencing imposter syndrome remain convinced that they do not deserve the success they have achieved. This episode aims to unpack the complexities of imposter syndrome, explore its origins, and provide practical strategies for overcoming it.

What is Imposter Syndrome?

Imposter syndrome was first identified in 1978 by psychologists Pauline Rose Clance and Suzanne Imes. It is characterized by chronic self-doubt and a sense of intellectual fraudulence that overrides any feelings of success or external proof of competence. People with imposter syndrome often attribute their accomplishments to luck or other external factors, rather than to their own abilities.

The Pervasiveness of Imposter Syndrome

Imposter syndrome affects individuals across various fields and levels of achievement. It is particularly common among high-achievers and can be found in industries ranging from academia to business, the arts, and beyond. Despite its prevalence, it is rarely discussed openly, leading many to suffer in silence.

Personal Anecdotes and Experiences

Many successful individuals have publicly shared their experiences with imposter syndrome. For example, renowned author Maya Angelou once said, “I have written eleven books, but each time I think, ‘Uh oh, they’re going to find out now. I’ve run a game on everybody, and they’re going to find me out.’” These personal stories highlight that imposter syndrome does not discriminate and can affect anyone, regardless of their level of success or recognition.

The Roots of Imposter Syndrome

The origins of imposter syndrome are multifaceted and can be traced back to various sources:





**Family Dynamics:** Early family interactions can play a significant role. For instance, parents who place a strong emphasis on achievement or who compare siblings can inadvertently foster feelings of inadequacy.

**Societal Pressures:** Societal expectations and stereotypes can also contribute. Women and minorities, in particular, may feel additional pressure to prove themselves in environments where they are underrepresented.

**Personality Traits:** Certain personality traits, such as perfectionism and neuroticism, are closely linked to imposter syndrome. Perfectionists, for example, set excessively high standards for themselves and are prone to feeling like failures when they do not meet those standards.



Symptoms of Imposter Syndrome

Recognizing the symptoms of imposter syndrome is the first step toward overcoming it. Common symptoms include:

- **Self-Doubt:** Constantly doubting your abilities and fearing that you will be exposed as a fraud.

- **Attributing Success to External Factors:** Believing that luck, timing, or other people’s help are the reasons for your success, rather than your own skills and effort.

- **Overworking:** Working excessively to prevent others from discovering your supposed incompetence.

- **Fear of Failure:** Avoiding challenges or opportunities due to a fear of failing and being exposed.

- **Discounting Praise:** Downplaying or rejecting positive feedback about your performance.

Psychological Impact

Imposter syndrome can have significant psychological effects, including anxiety, stress, and depression. It can also lead to burnout, as individuals may overwork themselves in an attempt to compensate for their perceived inadequacies. Additionally, it can hinder personal and professional growth by causing individuals to avoid taking risks or pursuing new opportunities.

Strategies for Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

Welcome to another empowering episode of She Leads Confidently, where your host Karen Barno dives deep into the journeys of fearless women leaders. Today's special guest is Marie Minor Nugent, a transformative figure who has turned a near-death experience into a beacon of hope and healing.

Marie's story begins with a traumatic horseback riding accident that nearly claimed her life but instead set her on a profound path of spiritual and personal growth. A former CFO, Marie's journey through recovery led her to embrace her calling as a holistic healer and an ordained minister, founding the renowned Touch of Healing Massage and Wellness in Mesa, Arizona.

Throughout this episode, Marie shares her insights on overcoming life's darkest moments, harnessing spirituality for healing, and the power of Hawaiian spiritual teachings intertwined with brain science and biblical principles. She discusses how these experiences have shaped her unique approach to wellness and leadership, helping others navigate their paths to self-discovery and empowerment.

Listeners will be inspired by Marie’s resilience and her ability to transform adversity into opportunity. Her story emphasizes the importance of spiritual connection and community in personal growth. Whether you're dealing with personal challenges or seeking a deeper understanding of your spiritual path, Marie's story offers valuable lessons in leadership, faith, and the power of healing.

Join us as we explore the intersections of life, leadership, and spirituality on She Leads Confidently. Ready to be inspired and uplift your spirit? Tune in now to this enlightening conversation.

In this pivotal episode of "She Leads Confidently," titled "The Invisible Armor: Unmasking the Inner Struggles of Women Leaders," we embark on an insightful exploration into the unseen challenges that shadow the journey of women in leadership. This episode peels back the layers of the metaphorical armor that many women leaders wear — an armor composed of resilience, determination, and a seemingly unbreakable facade of success. Yet, beneath this armor lies a vulnerable reality marked by loneliness, doubt, and the perpetual uncertainty of "What's next?"



Despite achieving remarkable success and holding positions of significant influence, many women leaders grapple with internal adversaries such as imposter syndrome, a relentless pursuit of perfection, and a deep-seated fear of vulnerability. These challenges, though invisible to the external observer, can significantly erode one's sense of confidence and overall well-being, creating a dichotomy between outward accomplishments and inner turmoil.



Through a series of heartfelt personal narratives shared by women who have navigated these complex waters, combined with insights from seasoned experts in leadership, psychology, and organizational behavior, this episode delves into the essence of these internal conflicts. We aim to shed light on the emotional and psychological landscape of leadership, offering listeners a deeper understanding of the intricate dynamics at play.



This episode is meticulously designed to explore strategies for removing the invisible armor many leaders find themselves trapped within. By fostering genuine connections that transcend professional accomplishments and embracing authenticity in every facet of leadership, we provide a beacon of hope and a comprehensive roadmap for navigating these silent struggles.



Join us on "She Leads Confidently" as we dissect these complexities, offering a blend of storytelling, expert advice, and practical strategies. Our mission is to empower women leaders to lead with grace, authenticity, and strength, transforming internal challenges into opportunities for growth and connection. Let's embark on this journey together, redefining leadership one story at a time.

In the 'She Leads Confidently' podcast, on our transformative journey, we delve deeper into what this period of introspection and self-discovery truly entailed. This wasn't just a pause from the relentless pace of life; it was a profound exploration into the depths of our being, a sacred time dedicated to understanding the core of our existence and how we can best serve those around us, particularly women leaders who find themselves caught in the throes of stagnation and self-doubt.



During these months away from the public eye, our journey took us on paths less traveled, through the thickets of our own fears, hopes, and dreams. It was a time of shedding layers of preconceived notions about success and leadership, peeling back the veneer to reveal the raw, unfiltered essence of our true selves. This process was not without its challenges; confronting the shadows, acknowledging the barriers we've erected around our hearts and minds, and facing the vulnerabilities we've long hidden away requires courage and steadfastness.



Yet, this journey was also marked by moments of sublime clarity and profound realizations. We discovered that to genuinely empower others, we must first anchor ourselves in our own power, embracing our vulnerabilities as much as our strengths. We learned that serving women leaders—helping them break free from the 'invisible chains' of self-limitation, doubt, and societal expectations—begins with a deep, authentic connection to our own inner wisdom and a commitment to living our truth.



This video is not just a recounting of a personal journey; it is an invitation to each of you to embark on your own voyage of self-discovery. It's a call to explore the vast landscapes within, to question, to listen, and to emerge with a renewed sense of purpose and passion. Our mission is to create a ripple effect, inspiring and empowering women leaders to recognize their potential, reclaim their power, and passionately pursue their true calling.



As we share this video, we open our hearts and our journey to you, not as an expert, but as a fellow traveler on the path to self-realization and empowerment. Together, we can transform our inner landscapes, and in doing so, reshape the world around us. This marks not just a return, but a rebirth—a reawakening to the possibilities that lie within us and the incredible impact we can make when we step into our power and lead with purpose and passion.

Welcome to our latest podcast episode, "Holidays and Shadow Season," right here on our WordPress website! This episode is all about handling the tough stuff that can pop up during family dinners, especially during holiday times.



We've got some super helpful tips to share during Shadow Season:

1. **Mindful Breathing:** Ever feel super overwhelmed when everyone's talking at dinner? We'll teach you how to breathe in a way that calms you down. It's like a secret superpower for tough times!

2. **Setting Boundaries:** Sometimes, family talks can be a bit much, right? We'll chat about how you can politely change the topic or step away if things get too intense. It's all about keeping your cool and feeling okay especially during shadow Season.

3. **Reflect and Reframe:** We'll show you how to think about these tricky moments in a new way. Maybe there's something you can learn from them? We'll explore together!



And don't miss our action step: Journaling after dinner! Writing about your day can help you figure out your feelings and learn a lot about yourself.



Join us for this heart-to-heart talk. Whether you're having a hard time during family meals or just want to learn some cool new ways to handle stress, this episode's for you! Tune in, take notes, and let's grow together!

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Welcome to "Breaking Free: A Woman Leader's Journey from Alcohol to Authenticity," a podcast that is more than just a story – it's a movement.



In January, a pivotal moment came into my life when I decided to stop drinking. This decision wasn't just about putting down the bottle; it was about picking up a new way of life. This podcast is my heart and soul poured out, a narrative of the incredible clarity and profound personal growth I've experienced since that life-changing choice.



As a woman in a leadership role, I realized I had been playing small, hiding behind a veil of fear and alcohol-induced fog. But as I embraced sobriety, I began to step into my true potential, my greatness. This podcast is a testament to that journey – from living in the shadows to shining brightly in my authentic light.



Each episode of "Breaking Free" is a blend of personal reflections, insightful discussions, and interviews with inspiring women leaders who have also embraced a life of sobriety. We dive deep into the nuances of leading without the crutch of alcohol, exploring how sobriety can elevate our clarity, decision-making, and authenticity in leadership roles.



But this podcast goes beyond just the narrative of sobriety; it's about transformation and empowerment. We tackle the stigmas associated with alcohol, particularly in professional and leadership contexts. We share stories of overcoming societal pressures, breaking stereotypes, and rewriting the script of what it means to be a successful, sober woman leader.



Listeners will find a mix of practical advice, motivational stories, and heartfelt discussions. From exploring the daily challenges of maintaining sobriety in a world that often glorifies alcohol, to celebrating the small victories and major milestones along the way, "Breaking Free" is a comprehensive guide and companion for anyone on this journey.



This podcast is not just for those who have struggled with alcohol but for anyone seeking a more authentic, empowered life. It's for the leaders, the dreamers, the change-makers who know that true strength comes from vulnerability and authenticity.



Join me on this empowering journey, as we show women leaders across the globe that it's possible to break free from the chains of alcohol and step into a life of clarity, purpose, and authentic leadership. Let's embark on this path together, supporting each other, and proving that the best version of ourselves emerges when we are truly free.