In this episode Mike and Lisa sit down with Dr. Marc Reid, author of "You Are Not a Fraud: The Scientist's Guide to Imposter Syndrome." Together they delve into the complexities of imposter experiences, exploring their origins, manifestations, and strategies for managing them. With personal anecdotes and insights from Dr. Reid's research, including a survey of over a thousand participants, the discussion highlights the commonality of these feelings among professionals, particularly during career transitions.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Imposter syndrome, or the imposter phenomenon, is a common experience where individuals doubt their accomplishments and fear being exposed as a fraud, despite evidence of their competence.

Scoring high on imposter syndrome assessments (like a 76% score) is not inherently good or bad; it highlights the importance of awareness about one's feelings and experiences rather than labelling them negatively.

Major life changes, such as career shifts or becoming a parent, can trigger feelings of imposter syndrome. These transitions often lead to self-doubt and the perception of inadequacy.

The terminology used to describe imposter experiences can influence how individuals perceive their feelings. Referring to it as an "experience" rather than a "syndrome" can help normalize the feelings and reduce the stigma associated with them.

It's essential to recognise that imposter feelings can resurface, especially during new challenges. Strategies for managing these feelings include self-reflection, understanding the origins of these feelings, and reframing them as a normal part of growth and ambition.

BEST MOMENTS

"There is no good or bad or ugly. There's only awareness. That's what the whole scoring system is about."

"If I had my time again, I wouldn't even call it imposter phenomenon. I would call it the imposter experience."

"The very first paper written on it mentioned imposter phenomenon. Yet, if you ask 100 people in a room, have you heard of imposter phenomenon? Maybe one or two wee hands."

"I would first off tell you that if I did this now, I would be in the nineties. Oh, a hundred percent. I am worse now than when I did that."

"It's highly likely if there was ever going to be a scenario in which someone would start to have those questions or self-doubts, that's when it might happen."

ABOUT THE HOSTS

Mike began his career in medical lasers in 1986 with a physics degree and a post-grad in bioengineering. He helped develop the scar-free removal of tattoos using a Q-Switched Ruby Laser in Glasgow, and the world's first IPL system. Known well in the industry for his hard truths, no BS attitude and logical answers. As the author of three books, articles for medical journals, a well read blog, a Laser Protection Advisor and contributor to the BMLA, Mike is the Laser Guru.

Lisa's claim to laser fame is being Mike's daughter. Growing up with lasers and never avoiding a physics lesson from her Dad, it was natural to enter the industry. Leaving a corporate career with a baby to jump into self employed life came with challenges. Despite that Lisa has been well recognised for her teaching style, practical tips, bringing the compassion to the science, and laser mentoring.

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