Leadership Dilemma: Why Achievement Doesn’t Always Feel Like Success
Sometimes you can be working long hours, meeting every KPI, and delivering everything set out in your PDR objectives, yet something still doesn’t feel right.
- You push yourself to do more than last time.
- You work even longer hours.
Despite the extra effort, you can’t shake the feeling that you’re not quite good enough. No one is telling you are doing anything wrong. In fact, you might be thanked or praised for your achievements. Yet internally, something feels off.
The Hidden Cost of High Performance
You hesitate to ask for feedback in case it’s seen as lack of confidence.
- So you mask your emotions.
- You hide parts of your authenticity.
- You start to feel like you don’t belong.
- You even find yourself thinking about quitting.
So, what could be going on?
Understanding the Prototype of Leadership
This experience is common among many minority leaders who, because of their differences, whatever those differences may be, may not always be perceived as fitting the traditional image of leadership.
Because of difference, authority can be subtly withheld. Because you may not “look like” the expected prototype of a leader, projections of incompetence or “not good enough” can be placed onto you. Over time, this can become internalised.
The Impact of Systemic Projections
My research into the experiences of Black women in leadership roles highlighted the additional challenges faced when individuals do not fit the traditional leadership prototype. Authority is often questioned or withheld.
When we understand what we are carrying personally and systemically, we are better able to navigate leadership spaces and show up fully in our roles.
Take the Next Step
If this resonates with you and you would like to explore this topic further, I invite you to connect with me or book a discovery call so we can explore how we might work together.
