Welcome to Volume 1, Issue 2 of The Root.

In order to support our growth, we require a strong network of roots.  Whether individuals or organizations, roots anchor us, and serve as a conduit for nutrients to help us develop and deliver our goals.

 Visit us at www.aspiretogrow.co (.co for co-creating)

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This month’s theme: Imposter  Syndrome

Our theme this month is focused on Imposter Syndrome, otherwise known as Imposter Phenomenom identified in 1978 by Pauline Rose Clance and Suzanne Imes.  Their focus was in high achieving women – but we now know, nearly 70% of people experience Imposter Phenomenom (now dubbed Imposter Syndrome), even men.  The key difference, is how we speak to ourselves and work through our feelings of self-doubt, fraudelence or unearned success. So, if you are feeling like you must be tricking someone to have achieved your current greatness, join the club! 

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Off the Shelf – My Book Pick

 The Secret Thoughts of Successful Women by Valerie Young EdD was our book choice this month.  There are many other wonderful books available, but I wanted to focus directly from a female author, given that my research was for a Women’s Leadership meeting presentation.

A key to overcoming the feeling that we are not worthy of our own success, may inhibit us from taking more chances or risks.  Another important factor since the 1978 research, is the impact of Imposter Syndrome has on underrepresented populations, including women,  BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color), LGBTQIA (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual and agender), those from different socioeconomic backgrounds and those of varying abilitities. 

 If you are questioning your worthiness at work — do you see others like you in people of power?  Do you feel you have to do the best you can because you want to represent your entire social group perfectly? 

The good news, if you are feeling frauduent, then you have most likely achieved a level of success.  You are pushing yourself to grow (recognize these positive aspects).  It’s also important to reflect on our experiences and how they impacted our self talk — impact of previous coachers or teachers, parents, family, bosses, etc.   

Don’t be afraid to stay in that discomfort. 

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Stream On – My Podcast Pick

The Behaviorist – Imposter Syndrome

An exciting new podcast series we found this month is called The Behaviorist, by Work Wisdom.

In Episode 5, they discuss Imposter Syndrome, the role of organizational culture, who may experience it and how to help navigate through it.

Imposter Syndrome occurs at times of trying something new or during times of transition.  This is when we feel unsure of ourselves, and where we may question our own success.  It can happen in workplace cultures that foster individualism and overwork.   Our own narrative can contribute to our feeling unworthy of our accomplishments.  In fact, we may even look for evidence to support our imposter feelings, rather than valuing the hard work and accomplishments we have achieved.

 If you find yourself in moments of feeling unworthy, or “just lucky” or that some day someone will find out that “you are a fraud”, reflect on what may be contributing to this.  Is it the situation and/or the enivironment?  Talk with trusted friends, mentor or coach to work through this feeling.     

Humility is honorable, but so is recognizing your worth. 

Here is a reminder from Snoop Dogg — take time to thank yourself (note: the clip does include a swear word).  I want to thank me. 

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Mindful Moments

Musical Medidation

During the pandemic, some folks, including me, decided to take up a new instrument.  I had always wanted to play guitar, but it really felt overwhelming to learn something new.

The process of learning, practicing and playing was extremely calming.  Why was that?“

Playing an instrument forges new neural pathways in the brain, and the integration of the left and right hemispheres increases as playing an instrument lights up the whole brain,” says composer Murray Hidary.

Even cooler?  Listening to music increases cortisol leading to reduced anxiety symptoms according to How Learning to Play the Guitar Became my Go-To Meditation Practice in Quaratine So, if  you’ve always wanted to pick up an instrument – do it.  Your brain will thank you (even if your kids or pets won’t)