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Imposter Syndrome Is A Scheme: Reshma Saujani’s Smith College Commencement Address

Imposter Syndrome Is A Scheme: Reshma Saujani’s Smith College Commencement Address | The Smith College

Reshma Saujani, the keynote speaker at Smith College's 2023 Commencement, delivers a powerful address challenging the concept of imposter syndrome. She asserts that imposter syndrome isn't a syndrome at all; it's a scheme perpetuated by systemic barriers. Saujani, a gender equality activist and founder of Girls Who Code, advocates for addressing the political, financial, and cultural barriers that hinder women's progress, rather than relying solely on self-improvement tactics.

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The real reason more women and people of color suffer from imposter syndrome

Fast Company | Porter Braswell

Imposter syndrome is a pervasive issue affecting individuals in workplaces and educational institutions, but attributing it solely to individual shortcomings obscures the role of unconscious bias, systemic racism, and discrimination in perpetuating this phenomenon. This article explores the cultural and collective factors behind imposter syndrome, highlighting the experiences of women and people of color. It underscores the need to create inclusive environments that value diverse leadership and achievement styles, ultimately dismantling the biases that fuel imposter syndrome.

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Assimilation and Erasure: How Imposter Syndrome Traps People of Color

Literary Hub | Prisca Dorcas Mojica Rodríguez

Imposter syndrome is a prevalent and often debilitating phenomenon, particularly affecting marginalized individuals. This article delves into how imposter syndrome disproportionately impacts people of color, focusing on the experiences of one individual navigating academia and graduate school. It explores the roots of imposter syndrome, its effects on mental health, and the complex interplay between systemic bias, racial identity, and self-doubt.

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Imposter syndrome takes on a whole new meaning when you’re a woman of colour

Cosmopolitan | Yasmina Floyer

Imposter syndrome takes on a whole new meaning when you’re a woman of colour." In this insightful article, the author delves into her personal experiences and those of other women of colour to shed light on the unique challenges they face regarding imposter syndrome. It explores how societal factors, racial bias, and microaggressions contribute to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt, emphasizing the importance of addressing these external elements while building inner confidence.

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Bozoma Saint John: Leading with Authenticity and Urgency

Harvard Business School | Francesca Gino and Frances X. Frei

This multimedia case study delves into the remarkable journey of Bozoma Saint John, uncovering pivotal moments from her childhood and career that shaped her authentic leadership style. Saint John's narrative inspires and empowers, revealing her courage, vulnerability, and her unwavering pursuit of her goals. Throughout the case, she shares valuable frameworks to combat imposter syndrome, reframe feedback positively, and even reflects on the lessons learned from failure. Saint John's dynamic presence comes to life in this multimedia exploration, prompting a spirited conversation about organizational acceptance of leaders like her.

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Stop Telling Women They Have Imposter Syndrome

Harvard Business Review | Ruchika Tulshyan and Jodi-Ann Burey

Many women grapple with feeling like outsiders at work due to systemic bias and exclusion, often diagnosed as "imposter syndrome." This diagnosis pathologized a common workplace feeling, neglecting the impact of systemic racism, classism, xenophobia, and other biases. To address imposter syndrome, the solution lies in creating inclusive environments that embrace diverse leadership styles and racial, ethnic, and gender identities as equally professional.

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Why imposter syndrome hits women and women of colour harder

BBC | Sheryl Nance-Nash

How does pervasive issue of Impostor Syndrome and its disproportionate impact women, especially women of color, in the workplace? Understand how stereotypes, systemic biases, and a lack of representation contribute to these feelings of self-doubt. Learn from the experiences of individuals who have overcome Impostor Syndrome and find strategies to combat it, build confidence, and foster workplace diversity. Join the journey from fear to faith in your own abilities and contribute to a more inclusive work environment.

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6 Ways Women Of Color Can Overcome Imposter Syndrome

Mater Mea | Janet Asante

Imposter syndrome can be a significant challenge for women of color in homogenous workplaces. This article explores six ways to overcome this phenomenon and boost self-confidence, addressing issues such as feeling overlooked, not being heard, and experiencing constant distrust. The strategies offered include speaking up in meetings, overestimating your abilities, volunteering for assignments outside your team, embracing your unique identity, and owning your accomplishments.

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