TedTalk #256: The Impostor Syndrome

TED continues to spread ideas and help us all be better critical thinkers. Watching, listening and talking about TED Talks is a popular pastime for many in the CN&CO community. We visit TED.com regularly to clear our heads, have a laugh, learn or get inspired. TED Talks open our minds, spark new ways of thinking and can lead to some very interesting conversations and business opportunities. Each week we pick a favourite and publish it on a Tuesday, because we like how “TED Talk Tuesday” sounds. It’s also a way that the CN&CO team play their part in spreading ideas and helping to make the world a better place. This week’s TED Talk was picked by Stella Carter.

Have you ever felt like you are not worthy of all the great things you have achieved, or struggle to even see the greatness in yourself – be it professionally, or personally, physically or mentally!  

Did you know there is a name for that feeling, or disbelief in one’s own abilities? It’s called the Impostor Syndrome and is more common than you think. Lou Solomon talks about the Impostor Syndrome in her TED Talk below, and states that at least 70% of successful people have experienced feelings of fear of failure and perfectionism, associated with this syndrome.

In this TED Talk, Lou Solomon unpacks what the syndrome is, its causes, how to recognise it in yourself or those around you – and importantly, how to overcome it and replace those internal negative thoughts with positive ones.

Whether you have it, or know someone who does, there are steps to build a more satisfying and happy life. Watch the full video here and share your thoughts: