Imposter Syndrome: What it is and How to Overcome it.

Have you ever felt like a fraud? Like you didn’t deserve your accomplishments or that you only got where you are by luck, not ability? If so, you’re not alone - and what you’re experiencing is something called Imposter Syndrome. It’s more common than you might think, and for many of us, it can feel overwhelming or even debilitating.

What Is Imposter Syndrome?

Imposter Syndrome is a psychological pattern where people doubt their accomplishments and have a persistent fear of being exposed as a “fraud,” despite clear evidence of their competence. Coined in the late 1970s, it was originally observed in high-achieving women but is now recognised as something that can affect anyone, regardless of gender, background, or success level.

In fact, even globally recognised figures like Maya Angelou, Albert Einstein, and Michelle Obama have spoken about their experiences with self-doubt and feelings of not being “good enough.”

Common Signs of Imposter Syndrome

Imposter Syndrome can manifest in different ways, but here are some common signs to look out for:

• Perfectionism: You set extremely high standards for yourself and feel like a failure if you don’t meet them.

• Overworking: You push yourself to work harder to “prove” you belong, often at the cost of your well-being.

• Discounting Success: You attribute your achievements to luck, timing, or external help - never to your own skills or efforts.

• Fear of Failure: You avoid taking on new challenges because you fear being “found out.”

• Difficulty Accepting Praise: Compliments make you uncomfortable because you don’t believe you deserve them and find alternative reasons for people giving them.

Imposter Syndrome: Challenging the Voice That Says “Not Good Enough”

Let’s be honest - we’ve all experienced imposter syndrome at some point. Maybe you’re in a new role, standing in front of a group, chasing a dream, or even just navigating daily life - and that little voice creeps in: “Who do you think you are?” “You’re not qualified for this.” “They’re going to find you out.”

It can be surprisingly debilitating and these feelings can creep in at any stage of life - starting a new job, launching a business, speaking publicly, or even just being part of a high-performing team.

What Can We Do About It?

The good news is that you can manage and even overcome Imposter Syndrome. Not necessarily with a quick fix, its something that takes time, much like the years of experiences and behaviour patterns that have led you to this point, but if its something that's really stopping you from moving forwards and limiting your chance of success, if you can find the will and determination to address it and change it, I promise you'll see positive results over time.

Here are some strategies that can help:

1. Name It

Recognising that what you’re feeling is Imposter Syndrome is the first step. Once you give it a name, it starts to lose its power and grip on you.

2. Talk About It

Speak to friends, mentors, or colleagues. Chances are, they’ve felt the same way. Just hearing "me too" can be incredibly validating.

3. Track Your Achievements

Keep a “wins” journal. Write down compliments, successful projects, moments you're proud of or positive feedback. When doubt creeps in, look back and remind yourself of the facts.

4. Reframe Your Thinking

Instead of saying, “I don’t belong here,” try “I’m still learning, and that’s okay.” Growth comes with discomfort - it’s a sign you’re challenging yourself.

5. Practice Self-Compassion

Treat yourself with the kindness you’d offer a friend. Nobody is perfect. We’re all figuring it out as we go.

6. Seek Professional Support

If Imposter Syndrome is significantly affecting your mental health, consider talking to a therapist or coach who can help you work through it.

Understanding the Fear Beneath the Feeling

At its core, imposter syndrome is a deep fear of being “found out” - as though you’ve somehow managed to fool everyone into thinking you’re more capable than you are. But rather than dismiss it or pretend it’s not there, it’s worth asking:

• What are you actually afraid of?

• Where did that fear come from?

• Whose standards are you trying to meet?

Often, the roots lie in past experiences - maybe criticism you internalised as a child, unrealistic expectations you put on yourself, or moments when vulnerability felt like weakness. But it’s important to realise: you are not alone in this. The people you admire most have probably felt it too.

Would Anyone Really Know How You’re Feeling Inside?

We tend to assume everyone can see our self-doubt - but here’s the truth: Most people can’t.

Think about it. How often have you watched someone speak with confidence, lead a room, or launch something bold, and assumed they had it all together? We all buy into the performance. But behind the scenes, they may have been second-guessing themselves just as much as you do.

So what if you took the leap anyway? What if, instead of worrying you’re not “enough,” you chose to show up fully, mess and all?

Because most likely, people aren’t questioning your abilities the way you are. They’re too busy with their own internal battles - or they believe the version of you that you have forgotten to believe in.

Confidence Doesn’t Equal Perfection

It’s easy to see confidence in others and assume it comes from certainty. But often, it’s just someone who’s learned to back themselves despite the doubt. They’ve chosen to act, even when it felt uncomfortable. And that action creates momentum - which slowly chips away at the fear.

So Here’s a Thought…

Next time imposter syndrome shows up, try this:

• Pause and ask: What am I really afraid of?

• Challenge it: Is that fear fact or just a story I’ve told myself?

• Flip it: What would I do if I believed I belonged here?

Imposter Syndrome is something many of us have faced - and may still face - from time to time. The key isn’t to eliminate doubt entirely, but to recognise it for what it is and not let it control our actions. You’re not a fraud. You’re a work in progress, and that’s exactly where you’re supposed to be.

And most importantly, remember: you’re already doing the thing. You’re showing up. You care. You’re trying. That’s not an imposter - that’s courage!!

You’ve earned your place. Don’t let doubt steal your joy.