Hero vs. Imposter Syndrome: Striking a balance in the workplace
- Jerry Smith
- Jan 30, 2024
- 3 min read
In today's fast-paced, competitive professional world, there's a thin line between selfless dedication to your work and overextending yourself to an unhealthy degree. This phenomenon often referred to as "Hero Syndrome," describes individuals who have an insatiable need to help and rescue others. While wanting to be a hero and make a meaningful impact is admirable, it's essential to strike a balance. Interestingly, Hero Syndrome has a close, yet paradoxical counterpart in Imposter Syndrome, and understanding the differences between these two is crucial for your professional growth and well-being.
Hero Syndrome:
When going above and beyond becomes detrimental
Hero Syndrome often describes individuals who consistently go to great lengths to assist others, even when it's to the detriment of their own well-being. They may engage in self-sacrificing or risky behaviour in a bid to be seen as heroes. In the workplace, this can manifest as consistently taking on more than one can handle, working long hours, or sacrificing personal time for the sake of their colleagues or the organisation.
While Hero Syndrome can be rooted in a genuine desire to help, it may also be driven by underlying psychological needs such as validation and the desire for recognition. Striking a balance between helping and taking care of oneself is crucial in avoiding burnout and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Imposter Syndrome:
When success feels undeserved
Imposter Syndrome, on the other hand, is a psychological phenomenon where individuals doubt their abilities and feel like frauds, even in the face of evidence of their competence. People with Imposter Syndrome may downplay their achievements and feel they don't truly deserve their successes. This can lead to anxiety, self-doubt, and a fear of being "found out" as an imposter in their professional roles.
My Personal Journey with Hero Syndrome
Recently, I found myself in a hero situation, which is why I decided to share this article. I realised how easy it is to fall into the trap of Hero Syndrome, thinking that taking on more responsibilities and helping others at the cost of my well-being would lead to success and validation. However, this experience made me reflect on the importance of finding a balance in our professional lives. It highlighted the need to recognise that being a hero should not mean sacrificing our health and happiness.
Striking the Right Balance
While Hero Syndrome and Imposter Syndrome may seem like polar opposites, they can coexist within the same individual. Those with Hero Syndrome may overcompensate for their perceived lack of competence by taking on more responsibilities, seeking validation through their actions. This can lead to an unhealthy cycle of working harder and harder to prove themselves, further feeding into Imposter Syndrome.
For individuals grappling with Hero Syndrome, finding balance means acknowledging the admirable desire to help others while avoiding overcompensation for perceived shortcomings. Simultaneously, combating Imposter Syndrome means celebrating achievements and recognising personal competence without feeling the constant need to overachieve.
Here are some tips to help you achieve this balance in the workplace:
Self-awareness: Recognise your tendencies, whether they lean more toward Hero Syndrome or Imposter Syndrome. Self-awareness is the first step in addressing these issues.
Setting boundaries: Learn to say no when necessary and prioritise self-care. Boundaries are essential to prevent burnout.
Seeking support: Don't hesitate to reach out to mentors, peers, or professionals for advice and guidance. Remember, it's okay to ask for help when needed.
Celebrate achievements: Instead of dismissing your successes, acknowledge and celebrate them. It's important to recognise your competence and value.
Professional development: Invest in continuous learning and skill development. The more you enhance your abilities, the more confident you'll feel in your professional role.
In a world where success is often measured by one's ability to excel in their career, it's essential to find the right balance. Being a hero is commendable, but it should not come at the cost of your own well-being. Remember that genuine success comes from a healthy blend of self-assurance, competence, and a willingness to help others when appropriate. By achieving this balance, you'll not only excel in your professional life but also enjoy a more fulfilling, sustainable career.
Written by:
JERRY SMITH
Head of Talent Acquisition at NNW
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