You're venturing into a new sustainability career. How can you conquer imposter syndrome?

Impostor syndrome is fought by increasing safety as professionals. This security is acquired largely with the acquisition, understanding and continuous learning of methodologies and technologies that help promote sustainability.

Learning about sustainability is essential because it provides individuals and organisations with the knowledge and understanding required to implement effective practices. It encourages innovation, informed decision-making, and regulatory compliance. Stakeholders can contribute to a sustainable future, reduce environmental impact, and drive meaningful change by remaining informed.

I've always thought that fact you have imposter syndrome is possibly why you are going to progress at your job. It means you are motivated to learn more and accept help - remember you've got the role for a reason. Those who think they know everything are unlikely to keep up to date in this ever changing field and are going to have a mindset which makes collaborative work more difficult.

When we talk about sustainability, it’s important to build this next chapter of your career on a strong foundation. Seeking a mentor who inspires you, who understands the science, data and real life applications of sustainable development concepts is really important. In a decade of fake news, AI, greenwashing and rainbow washing, sustainability goals should be actionable, manageable and based on the best available science.

Appreciating the diverse skills of sustainability professionals and understanding how they contribute to collective goals can further boost your confidence and sense of belonging in the field. Everyone has a unique role in contributing to sustainability. For instance, accountants are crucial for tracking progress towards net zero goals, while energy experts facilitate the transition to a low-carbon future.

Networking with experienced professionals in the field you wish to work can provide valuable insights. For example, the #OpenDoorClimate movement promotes the connection of climate career seekers with stablished professionals for experience sharing, helping to grasp what specific roles entail. This kind of interaction can help you discover industry specifics, build confidence and accelerate your career.

Networking is essential in any profession, but it is particularly important in the field of sustainability, where collaboration and shared knowledge are essential. It facilitates the exchange of innovative ideas and best practices, fosters partnerships, and connects like-minded professionals, thereby enhancing collective efforts to achieve sustainable development objectives and achieve impactful environmental change.

I've always found it most helpful to try and network with those outside of your knowledge area, to help build understanding in areas outside of your day-to-day work. Sustainability is an overarching topic, but has numerous different areas within it that all interact and link together in some form.

Be careful not to confuse your individual goals with the bigger collective and societal goals. Too often we feel responsible for the whole big picture; then we feel like the 'imposter' because how is little old me going to affect anything significant (the answer is working together.) Be very clear on your sphere of influence and achievement and what you are collaborating on. Don't let the double imposter creep in!

Break larger goals into manageable tasks, celebrate small wins, and regularly review achievements to boost confidence. For example, in reducing corporate carbon footprints, start with Scope 1 and 2 GHG inventories, then move to Scope 3, celebrating milestones along the way. This approach fosters confidence and demonstrates tangible progress in your sustainability role.

It is crucial to establish objectives that are attainable, as they establish distinct milestones for progress. The accomplishment of these objectives fosters confidence, reinforces competence, and inspires additional action. This methodical approach guarantees productivity, increases focus, and maintains momentum in the effective pursuit of sustainability objectives.

Apart from the technical skills, reflection on the soft skills that you can strengthen can also take you a long way. Communication, negotiation and emotional intelligence are skills that every professional should aim to master. Those can help you build confidence, nurture relationships and showcase your work wherever you are, unlocking opportunities. I've seen so many experienced and known professionals fail in some of those, that's something that really can't be ignored.

View challenges in sustainability as opportunities to demonstrate your capability and worthiness in your role. Embrace them as chances to grow, innovate, and make a positive impact.

Stepping outside of your comfort zone is by far the best way to implement new skills and expertise. New tasks and challenges always seem far more daunting at the beginning than they do when you are doing them (or at the end), tacking these oppertunities will also help fight that imposter syndrome that is discussed at the top of the article.

Los desafíos pueden ser de diversas índoles. Por ejemplo, los desafíos técnicos sueles surgir en el trabajo o en contextos profesionales. Estos retos tienen la característica de que pueden ser solucionados con el aprendizaje continuo, la experimentación o la conexión con mentores. Sin embargo, hay retos personales que deben ser abordados también como es el caso de la falta de motivación o confianza en nuestro conocimiento. Es relevante tener en cuenta que muchas veces las personas no apoyarán nuestro contenido o trabajo, aún cuando están dentro de nuestro círculo cercano. Por esto debemos confiar en nosotros mismos, nuestras capacidades y cultivar las buenas prácticas y fortalezas que tenemos como profesionales.