Author: Lorena Plaza, Vice President FP&A, IBX

Have you ever felt imposter syndrome and, if so, how did you navigate your way through it?

Does Imposter syndrome ever go away? My theory is that it is a way to keep us humble. Impostor syndrome has helped me embrace my accomplishments as well as reframing perfectionism. Whenever that impostor syndrome “voice” shows up, I go through my “achievements inventory” to remind me of what I have accomplished, how I got where I am, both personally and professionally, and that I have within me the power to keep me moving. When we are on “the move” it is so easy to forget what we have done, mainly because we don’t take the time to appreciate the past. I have developed a list I refer to as “achievements inventory” of all those things I have accomplished, both personally and professionally in life, the challenges I have faced and the odds against me at certain times. I keep this list on paper but also on my phone and laptop because it is so easy to downplay ourselves and to forget the challenges we have overcome, the lessons learned, and the force inside us to accomplish things we never thought were possible. So, whenever that “voice starts talking,” I take a deep breath and go through some of the items on my inventory.

How can women support other women in the workplace/in their organizations?

Forming close connections with other women, it is a crucial element in empowering other women. It creates a forum to share experiences, encourage other women to step up and participate, engage, and take on a leadership role. We also support other women when we challenge gender stereotypes. Being intentional at developing, coaching, and training other women is another form of support. And most importantly, being a woman who lifts other women up.

What are the ways you stay grounded and take care of yourself?

I started meditation several years ago, it has been game changing for me! I have always been a highly active person, very energetic, so the idea of either practicing yoga or meditation seemed strange to me. Meditation has taught me to be present, to live in the present moment with full consciousness. I wake up early every morning, usually between 4:30am and 5:00am, I meditate, then exercise, and I am ready to start my day. It sets me off to a great start, and it allows me to remain present and release any stress. Meditation has improved my listening skills, awareness, and energy levels.

It’s natural for us to prioritize others, so I cannot emphasize enough the importance to allow time for yourself, this will help you in all aspects of your life, including your work and personal relationships.

How does POWER help empower women at all stages of their careers?

I learned about Power about 4-5 years ago when I was asked to participate at one of the Power Speed Networking events as one of the mentors. It was so powerful to see all these women eager to hear other women’s experiences and taking this time to continue to grow professionally. Since then, I have volunteered any time I can to participate at these events because they are so powerful and a way for me to lift other women. Lindsay Johnston (President of Power) herself is very inspirational and she is so engaged on empowering other women that has me very engaged on the same path.

What are you most passionate about?

I am most passionate about learning as well as sharing my own experiences/learnings with others. I am on a lifelong learning journey. Besides reading 3-4 books a month – I am always looking for the next recommendation – raising my 9-year-old has been an amazing journey, which has taught me patience (like more kids, she has a very short attention span), listening with intention, and being present. Running marathons has taught me the importance of maintaining a sustainable pace, not just while running but in life. I am an analytical person, so every mistake has given me the opportunity to learn from them. Later I have learned the power to share my own experiences, challenges, journey, and how did I end up where I am today. The power of helping and lifting others enriches my soul.