Imposter Syndrome: When Self-Doubt Overstays Its Welcome

It’s a strange thing—how self-doubt, in small doses, can keep us humble, curious, and striving for better… but when left unchecked, it becomes something else entirely.

Something heavier. That’s when it morphs into Imposter Syndrome: the persistent feeling that you’re not as competent as others think you are, and that sooner or later, someone will find out.

I’ve coached enough leaders to know that this isn’t a junior leader issue. CEOs, board members, senior executives—they’ve all admitted to feeling like a fraud at some point. The difference is, the most successful ones have learned how to acknowledge the feeling without letting it dictate their actions.

Recognize It Without Letting It Define You

First, understand that occasional self-questioning is normal—especially when you’re in a new role, leading a more seasoned team, or surrounded by people whose strengths differ from yours. That moment of “Do I belong here?” doesn’t mean you’re in the wrong place. It means you’re human.

Coach’s tip: Next time you feel that surge of doubt, pause and ask: Would I talk to a friend this way? If the answer is no, rewrite the script with the same empathy you’d give someone you respect.

Turn the Feeling into Fuel

Imposter Syndrome becomes damaging when it paralyzes you or pushes you to overcompensate with perfectionism or unnecessary aggression. Instead, redirect that energy toward learning and contribution.

• Identify where you feel less confident, and make it a focus area for growth.

• Measure progress in terms of what you’ve learned, not just what you’ve delivered.

• Treat every gap in skill or knowledge as a temporary condition, not a permanent flaw.

Coach’s tip: Schedule 30 minutes a week for intentional learning—whether it’s reading, shadowing, or asking better questions. Growth is the antidote to chronic self-doubt.

Own What You Don’t Know (and Leverage It)

Here’s the upside of not knowing everything: you can approach problems without the weight of “how it’s always been done.” That fresh perspective can be a real strategic asset. You might spot solutions others have overlooked, or ask questions that shake loose new thinking.

Coach’s tip: The next time you feel behind in knowledge, ask one thoughtful question that others may be too close to the work to see. Curiosity can be just as valuable as expertise.

Find Your People

Isolation feeds imposter feelings. Connection starves them. Allies, mentors, and like-minded peers can normalize your experience, reflect back your strengths, and remind you that you’re not the only one who’s ever felt this way.

Even seasoned executives benefit from having a “truth circle”—a small group that can provide candid feedback and encouragement when your inner critic is loudest.

Coach’s tip: Identify three people you trust to give you honest, constructive input, and check in with them regularly—not just when you’re struggling.

Final Thought

You may never fully eliminate imposter feelings, and that’s okay. The goal isn’t to silence the voice entirely—it’s to turn down the volume so it doesn’t drown out your capability. As one of my clients once put it, “If I’m going to have that voice in my head, it might as well be rooting for me.”

Are you ready to feel and project confidence? Take the ILS Confidence Mastery Bootcamp for engaging lessons and practical exercises backed by behavioral science!

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