Leader Imposter Phenomenon is Not a Mindset Problem. It’s an Identity Gap

A sky bridge connecting two concert building representing the bridge created to solve an identity gap

By Natalie Pickering, PhD Imposter phenomenon, referred to as imposter syndrome, is shorthand for high achievers who privately fear they are frauds– and that at any time, they will be found out. It is typically framed as a confidence issue. Leaders are told to reframe their mindset, internalize the good stuff, challenge maladaptive thinking, or … Read more

From “Soft Skills” to Career Infrastructure Advantage

A pair of pink tennis shoes standing in front of arrows pointing left and right using Dr. Natalie Pickering's identity-first career infrastructure to decide how to advance their career

The Missing Dimension of Career Growth Careers rarely stall because of a lack of skill. They stall because you have outgrown the role and perhaps even the internal systems supporting it. Many capable, high-achieving professionals reach a moment where advancement slows—even though performance remains strong. They’ve done what career advice prescribes: earned the credentials, invested … Read more

Book News and Reviews!

A collage of books featuring a copy of organizational psychologist, Dr. Natalie Pickering's 2025 book, Leading Becomes You

I bought and read Brene Brown’s book, Strong Ground, on our family vacation last fall. It struck me how her metaphor of solidfying your leadership on firm ground. In her artful voice and classic use of metaphor, she advocates for the courage required to lead from a solid place with integrity, convictions, values and awareness … Read more

AI Meets Human Coherence: Why Identity-First Leadership Is the New Competitive Edge

A human face overlaid with geometric circuit-board patterns and streams of colorful light rays against a dark background, suggesting the intersection of human identity and artificial intelligence

We’ve crossed the AI threshold. Now the question is: who are you on the other side? AI is here and it’s woven into workflows, decisions, customer experiences, performance reviews, and knowledge work. Tasks once considered “strategic” have been automated. Judgment we once thought uniquely human is simulated with startling accuracy. In this moment, leaders are … Read more

Why Self-Awareness Isn’t Enough Anymore

Someone wading into deep water, representing the deeper inner work leaders need beyond self-awareness to achieve lasting growth and identity clarity.

And what you (and your organization) need instead. Self-awareness gets a lot of press-And for good reason! It is linked to all things ROI for leader, manager, supervisor development and connected to personal and professional flourishing. It is a vital element for effective leadership, healthy team relationships, workplace wellbeing, and performance. The research backs it … Read more

Ready for fulfilling life and leadership?

Commit to growth