Helping Lawyers Overcome Imposter Syndrome

One month from today, Illinois lawyers are going to learn about the “Rookie Phenomenon.” 

What’s the Rookie Phenomenon? It’s a combination of reclaiming the roots of Imposter “Syndrome” - originally defined as Phenomenon, see below - and embracing the normal newness of high-pressure, high-visibility risk-taking for oneself despite fear, uncertainty, and doubt. 

One key point of the Rookie Phenomenon is this: 

IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO BE A ROOKIE WITHOUT FIRST MAKING THE TEAM. which means… YOU EARNED YOUR SEAT RIGHT WHERE YOU ARE. 

Whether by tryouts, interviews, vetting, or invitation, you have made the team. In other words, the powers-that-be believe you qualify for the job. Whether you’re ready to embrace this fact or not, YOU EARNED IT. It wasn’t luck, it wasn't oversight. You belong right where you are. 

Imposter Phenomenon was first documented in psychological research as a tendency for high-achieving women to feel as though their success was undeserved and they'd quickly be exposed as intellectual frauds. Women, marginalized populations, and perfectionists (and oof, what a combo if you’re all three - which high achievers often are) all experience bouts of imposter – eh ehmm - rookie phenomenon. 

Illinois Lawyers: On March 12 we're going to talk about the Rookie Phenomenon and how you can manage it for success. Register here to be a part of the conversation.

Thanks to The Chicago Bar Association for inviting me in for this topic.

#chicagolawyer #illinoislawyer #impostersyndrome 

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About your presenter: 

Dave O’Connor is an executive coach with 20+ years of experience in leadership and mentoring in tech and professional services. Dave provides executive coaching to mid- to late-career leaders who want to lead with purpose and leave a legacy of uplifting others. Dave’s clients describe their sessions with him as a combination of self-discovery and making real plans based on powerful insights. Dave’s clients come to him with a specific leadership or life challenge, and shift into clear-eyed, confident decision-making and self-awareness. Coach Dave’s office is in Lake Forest, IL. (www.heycoachdave.com)