Details

Shifting from Imposter to Holistic Self-Confidence

Do you question you own abilities and compare yourself with your peers? Many of us do, especially in academia and other high-performance jobs! This workshop delves into the common issue of Imposter Syndrome – a psychological phenomenon where individuals doubt their accomplishments and fear being exposed as a fraud, despite evidence of their competence. The imposter syndrome can decrease productivity, stifle innovation, and lead to increased stress and burnout. Further, it can cause individuals to withdraw from collaborative opportunities, effective networking and hamper their visibility in the workplace. 
 

Content Outline:
Participants will explore the roots of Imposter Syndrome, its impact on personal and professional development, and the persistent feelings of anxiety and guilt it can trigger. The workshop will offer research-backed strategies, practical exercises and role-plays to help participants recognize, manage, and overcome these destructive patterns. The workshop aims to enhance grounded confidence, effectiveness and joy for participants in their professional roles. You will develop strategies that help: 
•    to deal with self-doubt and build the confidence you need to express yourself with clarity and ease. 
•    to shift from an imposter feeling towards your authentic being, so that you can demonstrate your values, contribute your ideas and lead in an organization. 
•    to grow into your “muchness”, so that you can express yourself fully. 
 

Methods:
•    Individual reflection time and journaling. 
•    Small group work for exchange on obstacles, stumbling blocks and solutions.
•    Group reflections with high interactivity. 
•    Practical exercises and elements from applied improvisation and embodiment. 
 

Language:
This workshop will be held in English. Good English skills are of advantage but are not a requirement.
 

Trainer:
Dr. Insa Flachsbarth is a business economist by training. She holds a Ph.D. in agricultural economics and boasts over 10 years of experience as a researcher and scientific project manager at various research institutions and universities in Europe and the United States. Additionally, she is a professionally trained and certified coach for researchers at different career levels. 

Registration:
Due to a limited number of participants a binding registration is necessary. Please ask your supervisor for permission to participate and then address your registration to intranet.tuhh.de/anmeldung/imposter_syndrome_2026

For registered participants attendance at the entire workshop is obligatory.
 

Contact:
Dr. Krista Schölzig    T 040 42878-4337    E Krista.Schoelzig@tuhh.de
Lara Walkling        T 040 42878-3752    E Lara.Walkling@tuhh.de
 

Date/Time 23.04.2026 09:30 - 24.04.2026 13:00
Room extern, TU Hamburg in Harburg
Program/Schedule

Thu April 23, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., 

Fri April 24, 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m

Target group Postdocs, Doctoral candidates
LanguageEnglish
Registrations. description
Calendar File Download iCal file

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