189. Turning Imposter Syndrome into Your Superpower: Leading with Legacy and Impact

Have you ever felt like an imposter in your career or struggled with leaving a meaningful legacy?  In this episode of Life After Corporate, host Deb Boulanger sits down with Jen Coken to unravel the complexities of imposter syndrome and authentic leadership. Jen's journey from a political career to becoming an acclaimed coach provides invaluable insights into overcoming self-doubt and embracing genuine authority. Together, they explore how early-life experiences shape our professional lives, the challenges of transitioning from corporate to entrepreneurial worlds, and practical advice on mindfulness and self-discovery.  Tune in to discover how to transform imposter syndrome into your superpower and leave a lasting legacy, no matter where your journey begins.    [00:05- 14:54] Legacy and Authenticity in Leadership   Jen Coken discusses the importance of leaving a legacy, stressing that it doesn't require fame or vast impacts. Authority is defined as confidence and authenticity, not merely power or status. Coken brings attention to the pervasive nature of imposter syndrome, comparing it to a pandemic that leaders face. Jen shares a story of a woman who lost her identity by conforming to traditional expectations in a male-dominated industry.     [14:55 -22:19] Imposter Syndrome and Corporate Challenges   Imposter syndrome is described as a phenomenon involving an amygdala hijack, leading to reactions like fight or flight. She advises leaders to be curious rather than assume, particularly in meetings and professional settings. Strategies include asserting oneself and sharing personal context deliberately and strategically. Jen recounts her personal pivot from corporate life, illustrating her initial struggles with visibility and imposter syndrome.     [22:20 - 33:14]  Mindfulness and Personal Development      Mindfulness is highlighted as a tool to observe rather than control emotions, aiding in rewiring neural pathways. Coken speaks about the 6-year-old self's influence on present-day decisions and behaviors. The power of being an observer of emotions to foster new ways of being is underscored. Jen Coken shares insights on transforming imposter syndrome into a superpower and embracing it as a driver for success.   [33:15 - 39:02] Communicating and Dealing with Insecurity   Coken suggests recording and analyzing thoughts to separate fact from fiction, a method she calls "The Power Code." Emphasizes the significance of owning one's stories and making bold decisions despite uncertainties. "Fake fear" vs. "real fear" is a concept discussed to manage internal insecurities. Utilize self-acceptance and authenticity to combat self-doubt in crowded markets.   Connect with Jen Coken Email:  [email protected] Website:  Jen Coken Coaching - Author | Lifestyle Coach | Comedian LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coken/ Instagram: @jencoken Facebook: Jen Coken Coaching Jen's Books "Make Imposter Syndrome Your Superpower"   www.jencokenbook.com "When I Die, Take My Panties"  Amazon.com: When I Die, Take My Panties: Turning Your Darkest Moments into Your Greatest Gifts eBook : Coken, Jennifer: Kindle Store   Barnes & Noble Link If you buy the book PREsale from Barnes & Noble, you'll receive a special gift from Jen: Make Imposter Syndrome Your Superpower: The Ultimate Guide for Women in STEM to Lead with More Authority, Influence, and Impact by Jen Coken, Paperback | Barnes & Noble® Go to https://lifeaftercorporatepodcast.com/ for all episodes 169. Lisa Durante's Strategy for Mastering Your Content Marketing Plan! 153  A 3-Step Guide to Skyrocketing Your Income 137 Marketing, Management, and Metrics: The Keys to Consistent Success Tweetable Quotes: "The brain's never dealing with reality ever. The brain is consistently taking in information, comparing it, compartmentalizing it."... Jen Coker on Neuroscience Revelations "And imposter syndrome came in because I had a big contract with a big tech company, and I was sucked into the toxic culture without realizing it, which is so easy for us to do."... Jen Coker on Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Toxic Work Culture   **TRANSCRIPT AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST**   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A FIVE-STAR REVIEW and share this podcast with other growing entrepreneurs!  Get weekly tips on how to create more money and meaning doing work you love and be one of the many growing entrepreneurs in our community. Connect with me on LinkedIn; https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12656341/  or on Instagram or our website at www.lifeaftercorporatepodcast.com .