As a DBA navigating the demanding landscape of higher education, I have personally witnessed and experienced the pervasive effects of imposter syndrome (IS) among students and friends. While traditional discussions often focus on intellectual competence, this lightning talk delves into the emotional dimension of IS – the feelings of inadequacy, fear of exposure, and persistent self-doubt that can hinder academic progress and well-being.

This talk will explore common emotional triggers for IS in higher education, such as performance anxiety, social comparison, and the pressure to succeed in a competitive environment. It will then offer practical strategies, grounded in self-compassion and cognitive behavioral techniques, for addressing these feelings and building a more resilient mindset. These strategies include mindful self-reflection, challenging negative thought patterns, and cultivating a supportive community.

This lightning talk also serves as a prelude to an upcoming study examining the lived experiences of women in business with imposter syndrome. The goal is to gather data and insight on potential triggers of IS and the effectiveness of different strategies for coping. We anticipate generating a more detailed understanding and creating targeted interventions. The aim is to initiate a conversation about emotional well-being and its impact on academic excellence and professional growth. Your questions and experiences will help to shape this upcoming work.

This talk will explore common emotional triggers for IS in higher education, such as performance anxiety, social comparison, and the pressure to succeed in a competitive environment. It will then offer practical strategies, grounded in self-compassion and cognitive behavioral techniques, for addressing these feelings and building a more resilient mindset. These strategies include mindful self-reflection, challenging negative thought patterns, and cultivating a supportive community.