1. What do you say to yourself when you feel imposter syndrome rising inside you?
When those feelings of self-doubt start creeping in, I’ve learned it’s so important to be kind to myself. I remind myself that it’s completely normal to have these feelings, especially when I’m stepping into something new or challenging. I think back to all the times I have succeeded and overcome difficulties in the past – those weren’t easy either, but I got through them, and that strength is still within me. I also try to remember that my unique experiences and how I see things are valuable. Women Emerging emphasizes exploring leading from where I am, so my personal journey truly matters. Sometimes, I even wonder if these feelings are a sign of my humility, which I’m learning is actually a real strength for a leader. I try to accept that there will be both good days and tough days, and that’s all just part of the process of learning and growing.
2. What are the signs that an individual on your team could be at risk of burning out and what do you do?
I’m becoming more aware that burnout can show up differently in everyone. I might notice someone who is usually full of energy becoming quiet or withdrawn, or maybe someone who’s normally very involved seems distracted and less motivated. Even changes in their mood, like them being more irritable than usual, or even acting overly cheerful in a way that feels off, could be a sign.
When I notice these kinds of shifts, my first instinct is to create a safe and comfortable space for them to talk. I want them to know that I’ve noticed they might be having a hard time and that I’m there to listen without any judgment. I’ve found that sharing some of my own experiences and challenges can help them feel less alone. Sometimes, just feeling heard and understood can make a big difference. I also think it’s important to try and understand what their workload looks like and see if there are any ways I can offer support or help redistribute tasks. Encouraging them to take breaks and really prioritize their well-being is also something I’d do. Ultimately, I’m learning that leading is also about generating positive energy within the team, and that starts with looking out for each other.
3. What do you do to prepare for a difficult conversation with your team?
When I know I have a tough conversation coming up, I’ve learned that preparation is key to handling it well. I start by getting really clear on what the main issue is and what I’m hoping to achieve with the conversation. I try to think about how the situation might be affecting each person involved and aim to approach it with empathy. It’s also helpful to plan what I want to say, maybe even jotting down some key points so I stay focused, kind of like how Monica prepares for her meetings.
During the conversation itself, I want to focus on clear and simple communication, making sure my message is easy to understand. It’s also crucial for me to listen actively to their perspectives and really try to understand where they’re coming from. I think it’s important to acknowledge their feelings and try to create an environment where everyone feels heard and respected. I’ll also advice about keeping the focus on the issue at hand and avoiding bringing in our unrelated problems – “no confessing”. If the conversation starts to feel too tense or emotional, I won’t hesitate to suggest taking a break so everyone can regroup and come back with a clearer head. By preparing thoughtfully and approaching the conversation with a focus on understanding and finding solutions together, I feel more confident in navigating difficult moments effectively. This collaborative approach helps us find solutions together, strengthening our team in the process.
About the author:
Shurti Singh is on a mission to reshape the future of leadership, one authentic conversation at a time. As an MBA student at Universal AI University, she has learned that true leadership flourishes when we embrace both our strengths and vulnerabilities. Through Women Emerging Expedition, she is building bridges between empathy and action, creating spaces where everyone’s story matters and collective growth thrives. Shurti is also a Women Emerging Guide
