The topic :

Do You Ever Feel Like You Don’t Belong — Even at the Top of Your Field?

This interactive  micro-talk  will explore the  imposter  syndrome  in  high- performance scientific environments such as CERN, where excellence and constant evaluation can intensify self-doubt even among highly competent professionals.  

The session start by normalizing the experience and distinguishing imposter feelings from actual lack of competence, using research insights to explain why high achievers are particularly prone to it.

Participants will learn to recognize common thought patterns (e.g.,   discounting   success,   fear   of   being   “found   out,” perfectionism) and understand the impact these have on confidence, collaboration, and wellbeing. 

Through guided reflection and short peer discussions, attendees will identify their own internal narratives and triggers, especially in hierarchical or competitive settings.  

You’ll leave with concrete, research-based tools to:

• Reframe unhelpful self-talk
• Build evidence-based confidence logs
• Communicate achievements without discomfort
• Seek and use feedback constructively

This micro-talk will be held in English, on Zoom.

The expert :

Ms Alessandra Patti holds a MA in languages and communication and she worked as head of communication for seven years in an American company.

Following her long-standing wish for entrepreneurship and the desire to explore psychology and mental wellbeing, she got a continuing education diploma in analytical psychology, became an accredited practitioner coach and a certified mental health first aid instructor and trainer. 

She is also the founder of  FindYourWay Coaching, and she proposes prevention programs in communication & mental wellbeing.