Posted by By Krissie D. Stich, CRA
Editor’s Note: This session recap was previously published in Convention Daily 2025.
Melissa Tkacsik, CRA’s introduction stood out with its powerful message about owning one’s voice and carving a unique path. I connected deeply with this idea of leading authentically, especially as someone who believes in empowering others to bring their full selves to work. Her journey reminds me that leadership is not just about managing tasks but about embracing your story and encouraging others to do the same.
The presentation focused on imposter syndrome, offering valuable insights into how this persistent self-doubt affects many people, despite clear evidence of their accomplishments. Tkacsik described the imposter cycle — overworking, perfectionism, discounting praise, and avoiding new challenges — which felt very familiar as common struggles for many. This cycle can lead to emotional exhaustion and burnout, often tightly linked to how individuals perceive their own identity.
Tkacsik also emphasized the importance of recognizing the roots of imposter feelings, which may stem from personal expectations or a desire to maintain the status quo. What truly resonated with me was the approach to reframing self-doubt through from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset. Tkacsik highlighted how a fixed mindset creates ceilings on professional growth, feeding self-doubt by making failures feel permanent. Conversely, a growth mindset encourages celebrating small wins and surrounding yourself with people who uplift and support you.
As a leader, I believe mentoring and leading by example are essential to helping others break free from the imposter cycle. Tkacsik’s openness about her own experiences with self-doubt is a powerful reminder that vulnerability builds connection and trust. When leaders demonstrate resilience and authenticity, they model the behaviors and mindset we want to see in our teams — embracing imperfection, asking for help, and celebrating progress.
Creating a psychologically safe environment where team members feel supported to take risks and learn from mistakes without fear of judgment is critical. This safety fosters confidence, reduces the fear of failure, and empowers continuous growth. Through mentoring, sharing knowledge, and offering constructive feedback, leaders can build a foundation that supports their teams’ development.
Ultimately, both Tkacsik’s perspective and my own align around this truth: leadership is about owning your journey and helping others own theirs. Focusing on the journey — not just the results — and being a cheerleader for your team helps reduce self-doubt and fosters authentic growth. By staying true to yourself and cultivating a supportive environment, you help dissolve imposter syndrome’s power and enable everyone to thrive.
