We recently connected with Abigail Vieira and have shared our conversation below.
Abigail, first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
Battling imposter syndrome is an ongoing struggle. For me, it is important to notice it and name it when it is creeping into my consciousness. Next, I root myself in the facts, by listing out loud or writing down evidence that challenges my imposter syndrome, i.e. I earned a Masters’ degree in Social Policy, my most recent evaluation was overwhelmingly positive, the last project I led was successful, etc. Lastly, I acknowledge and validate where the self doubt may be coming from, i.e. it makes sense that I feel like I don’t belong here, I am the only woman on this team, but it doesn’t mean I don’t actually belong. My intention isn’t to criticize myself for experiencing imposter syndrome, as it may not be possible to eradicate it completely, but to find better strategies to manage it so that it doesn’t impact my goals, or how I show up for the work that is important to me.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
After 15 years of working in social justice organizations with clients in crises and the staff members supporting them, I decided to launch a full person coaching practice where I partner with individuals who work in change making careers. Burnout, secondary trauma, lack of sufficient training and minimal resources too often characterize jobs on the front lines of social justice causes, and I know first hand that having a safe space to process, learn and grow can be instrumental for wellbeing in the field. I offer free initial sessions to any individual interested in coaching together and three free sessions to any organization interested in hiring me.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
It is essential to always remember and surface your why! When I face setbacks, I often remind myself why I am pursuing a coaching practice dedicated to positive social change and that gives me strength to continue. I also often remind myself to reflect on my progress, instead of insisting on perfection. If and when I look for it, I can always find ways that I have or am progressing and that allows me greater mental flexibility to push through discomfort, negative thought patterns and to strive each day to be a little better. I also know that reflection is one of the ways that I learn best, so I carve out time each week for reflection.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I am always looking for new mission driven individuals or organizations to partner with, and I can be reached through my website; www.sunriselifeandcareercoaching.com, or by email; sunriselifeandcareercoaching@gmail.com.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sunriselifeandcareercoaching.com/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abigail-headrick/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/sunrise-life-and-career-coaching-berkeley
- Other: Email: sunriselifeandcareercoaching@gmail.com
Image Credits
FotosbyFlee, Felicia Kieselhorst
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