Sn. 3, #18 Dr. Nancy Williams: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

Imposter syndrome isn’t something that people are simply born with. More often than not, it’s a consequence of a wounding experience. Joining us today to talk about this and so much more is musician, culture consultant, and leadership and life coach, Dr. Nancy Williams. Dr. Williams has an impressive musical background, with a doctorate in musical arts, clarinet performance, and musicology, and many years of experience as a self-employed performer, educator, and ensemble leader. Most recently, she has taken her skills in music education into the business world and beyond, starting her own culture consultancy business as well as working as a leadership and life coach for high-achieving women. In our conversation with Dr. Williams, she reflects on the patriarchy in the musical field and her personal experience of unconsciously altering her behavior to make her male colleagues feel comfortable. We talk in depth about imposter syndrome: what it is, what causes it, how to overcome it, and how it differs from a lack of confidence. Dr. Williams explains what gaslighting looks like in a professional environment, shares some of the challenges that high-achieving women are faced with, and defines the subsequent overwhelm of overachieving. In closing, we hear what it takes for women to set compassionate boundaries and value their own time and energy, without the guilt! Tune in to find out what you can do to define and protect your limits and learn to say, “No!” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices