You Belong Here: Navigating Imposter Syndrome

Imposter syndrome is an experience familiar to many high achievers. It shows up as doubt, self-criticism, and the sinking feeling that you don’t deserve your success.

Some have posed that imposter syndrome acts as a motivating force. However, over and over again, I've seen that it's much more likely to act as a debilitating force. Instead of fueling someone's growth, it piles on stress, creating a vicious cycle where a fear of inadequacy hinders their action and reinforces the very doubts they're trying to escape.

Imposter syndrome thrives on the unexamined stories we tell ourselves about our belonging, worth, and ability.

And if we want to break free, we need to challenge those narratives.

The Roots of Imposter Syndrome

In my coaching practice, countless clients have shared their struggles with imposter syndrome. Their concerns are along these themes:

• “I don’t belong here.”

• “I haven’t earned this.”

• “People like me don’t do this kind of job.”

These feelings stem from deep-seated perceptions shaped by their past experiences, societal norms, and internalized biases. Yet, despite these doubts, every individual I’ve worked with has had the skills, drive, and purpose to be successful exactly where they are.

So, the challenge isn’t really about proving yourself; the challenge is deciding what you’ll do with the opportunity you’ve been given.

Three Questions to Examine Imposter Syndrome

It's not uncommon to have feelings of self-doubt, but leaders must chose to act with courage despite it. To help my clients navigate imposter syndrome, I ask three questions:

1. What makes you feel like you don’t belong? Often, this prompts a list of specific worries or assumptions. Bringing these into the open is the first step toward challenging them.

2. Who is saying these things about you? I've found in most cases, no one else is voicing these doubts. The negativity exists solely in their own self-talk—or as vague projections of what “they” might think.

3. What do you want to accomplish while you’re here? This question redirects focus from doubt to purpose. Instead of worrying about whether you belong, you start thinking about how to make the most of your role.

This Is NOT a Call to “Fake It”

You’ve likely heard the phrase “fake it till you make it,” but pretending to be someone you’re not is exhausting and inauthentic. The real goal is to lean into your strengths and values, trusting that you are equipped to make meaningful contributions. 

Instead of focusing on “faking” competence, focus on being useful where you are. Align your actions with your values, seek to add value in your role, and trust that growth will follow.

Shift Your Perspective

Overcoming imposter syndrome requires shift in perspective. Imposter thoughts may linger, but they don’t have to dominate your narrative. Here’s how you can reframe your mindset:

• Trust that you belong: Recognize that you wouldn’t be in your current role if others had not seen your potential.

• Ground yourself in your values: Use your principles as a compass to guide your actions. Stay true to your deeply-held values and you won't feel regret.

• Focus on contribution: Shift your energy towards adding value where you can instead of worrying about being perfect.

Leadership in the Face of Doubt

The science of leadership shows that effective leaders are able to balance humility with confidence. They don’t need to have all the answers, but they do take responsibility for their growth and contributions. By embracing this mindset, you can turn imposter syndrome into an opportunity for self-awareness and resilience.

If imposter syndrome resonates with you, take time to reflect on the three questions above. Write down your thoughts or share them with a trusted mentor. Over time, you’ll find that your focus shifts from fear to purpose, and empowers you to lead authentically and effectively.