Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

Ever achieved something and immediately thought, “I don’t deserve this”? Welcome to Imposter Syndrome, a psychological pattern where even the most capable people question their own competence and fear being “found out” as a fraud.

The term was first coined by psychologists Dr. Pauline Clance and Dr. Suzanne Imes (1978), who observed this pattern among high-achieving individuals, particularly women. Decades later, it continues to affect professionals, students, leaders, anyone striving to do well.

What Imposter Syndrome Feels Like

If you’ve ever had thoughts like:

“Everyone’s smarter than me.”
“I just got lucky.”
“I don’t deserve this promotion.”
“What if they realize I’m not as good as they think?”

Then you’ve experienced imposter syndrome in action.

It often appears when we’re stepping into new roles, taking risks, or achieving something big. Ironically, the more we accomplish, the stronger the inner critic can grow, whispering that we haven’t really earned it.

The Truth Behind It

Your brain isn’t trying to sabotage you, it’s trying to protect you.

When you enter unfamiliar territory, self-doubt shows up as a safety mechanism to keep you cautious and prepared. But when left unchecked, it turns into chronic self-questioning that holds you back from growth and satisfaction.

What Helps with Imposter Syndrome

Imposter Syndrome isn’t a sign of weakness, it’s a sign that you care deeply about doing well.

Here are a few simple practices that can help you reframe it:

Reframe mistakes as part of mastery.
Every expert was once a beginner. Errors are evidence that you’re learning, not failing.
Keep a “Wins List.”
Write down accomplishments, big and small. The next time doubt creeps in, you’ll have proof against it.
Stop chasing “perfect.”
Perfectionism fuels imposter feelings. “Progress, not perfection” is where growth lives.
Talk about it.
Many people you admire have experienced the same doubts. Sharing your feelings can normalize the experience and bring perspective.
Remember:
Confidence doesn’t come first, courage does. Every small step you take despite fear strengthens self-trust.

The Art of Self-Trust

Self-trust isn’t about believing you’ll always succeed, it’s about believing you can handle whatever happens next.

It grows every time you honor your efforts, speak kindly to yourself, and show up even when self-doubt whispers otherwise.

With time, the goal isn’t to silence your inner imposter completely, it’s to remind it that you belong here. You earned your place, your progress, and your peace.

Activity: Your “I Belong Here” Journal

Take a few minutes this week to write down:

Three things you’re proud of accomplishing recently.
One challenge you faced and how you handled it.
A kind sentence you’d say to a friend who feels like an imposter, then say it to yourself.

Keep this note handy and revisit it whenever self-doubt tries to take over.

Your story deserves to be owned, not apologized for.

Final Word

You’re not an imposter, you’re evolving.

Growth is never comfortable, and that’s exactly why it matters. The next time your mind whispers “I’m not enough,” answer gently:

“Maybe not yet. But I’m learning, and that’s everything.”

Credits: Therapist Christymol