On Monday, the 19th of June, 2023, CRC female researchers met in a workshop on “Imposter Syndrome: A Mindful Approach to Imposter Experiences” initiated by the CRC-TRR 228 Future Rural Africa’s Board for Gender Equality and Diversity. The one-day seminar was led by Dr. Taiya Mikisch, an expert in this field who focuses on the university sector.
The participants learned about results from research on the topic of Imposter Syndrome to better contextualize one’s own experience. It is important to note that imposter syndrome is not purely a personal issue, but is very often closely related to (hierarchical) structures, especially at universities.
Besides the information transfer, the participants were asked to reflect on imposter situations via various rounds of questions, to feel out their self-assessment and perception of this and to write it down for themselves. In break-up groups, intensive discussions were done between each other. All this was interspersed with practical exercises designed to help the participants perceive their strengths while cultivating a compassionate, mindful attitude towards themselves. The workshop took place in a very pleasant, trusting atmosphere, where everyone shared only what she wanted to share.
At the end of the workshop, the participants were able to reframe situations they had experienced themselves, possibly even more positively through the concept of growth mindset.
It was a great day, many thanks to Taiya who guided everyone perfectly through this workshop.
