Sometimes you feel like you’re in over your head. How do you “fake it ‘til you make it”?
What the Experts Say
Feeling anxious about a new professional challenge is natural. In fact, imposter syndrome — the creeping fear that others will discover you aren’t as smart, capable, or creative as they think you are — is a lot more common than you might guess. The key to overcoming this she says, is “to trick yourself out of the state of self-doubt.” Faking it ‘til you make it’ is not about pretending to have skills you don’t, she adds. It’s “about pretending to yourself that you’re confident” so you can work hard and get the job done.
Frame it as an opportunity
The more you focus on what’s scary about the new team you’re leading or the project you’re going to steer, or the party you are going to manage, the more intimidated you’ll feel. Instead, “frame the challenge not as a threat, but as an opportunity to do something new and different,”. Instead of freaking out, thinking, ‘Oh no, I feel anxious.’ Change that mindset and think, ‘This is exciting.’ That makes it easier to get in there and engage.
Watch and learn
When you’re developing your personal management style, you should observe how others lead. One role model will not suffice; you need a several of them. It’s helpful to be exposed to many different styles. Watch how these people influence others, use humor, and come across as charismatic and self-assured. Also take note of their verbal tactics — when they use silence, how they pose questions, and how they intervene. Pay attention and then try to copy, you can borrow bits and pieces and make them your own.
Be bold in your body language
One surefire way to come across as self-confident when you’re feeling insecure is to use body language that makes you feel bold and victorious. Your aim is to make yourself feel more powerful psychologically. Take long strides. Sit up straight. Walk with your chest held high. And don’t slouch. When you carry yourself in a way that conveys power, poise, and healthy pride, you feel more self-assured and others perceive you that way. You feel less guarded, more optimistic, more focused on goals, and more likely to take a stand.
Read more about this helpful topic on : https://hbr.org/2016/06/how-to-fake-it-when-youre-not-feeling-confident