Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: You’re More Ready Than You Think

If you’ve ever caught yourself thinking, “Who am I to be doing this?” or “Soon they’ll realise I don’t actually know what I’m doing,” you’re not alone. That sinking feeling? It has a name: impostor syndrome. And despite how personal it feels, it’s a nearly universal experience, even among the most successful people.

But here’s the truth: feeling like an impostor doesn’t mean you are one. It means you’re growing. And that’s exactly why you need to keep going.

What Is Imposter Syndrome, Really?

Imposter syndrome is that internal voice that tells you you’re a fraud, that you don’t belong, or that you’re not as competent as others perceive you to be. It often shows up in moments of expansion, when you step into something bigger than you’ve done before, take on a new role, or pursue a dream you deeply care about.

It’s the fear of being “found out” even when you’ve earned your place, done the work, and have every reason to be there.

Where It Comes From

Imposter syndrome usually isn’t about ability. It’s about identity.

It comes from outdated beliefs you’ve internalised, maybe from childhood, society, or past experiences that tell you success must look a certain way or that confidence equals arrogance.

It often hides in high achievers and perfectionists. Why? Because when your standards are sky-high, anything less than flawless feels like failure. Even excellence can feel like “not enough.”

And for marginalised folks, especially women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, imposter syndrome is often magnified. When you don’t see yourself represented in the spaces you’re entering, it’s easier to believe you don’t belong.

The Lies It Tells

Imposter syndrome will try to convince you that:

• You just got lucky.

• Someone else could do it better.

• You need more experience, more training, more proof.

• You’re not really qualified.

None of that is true. And deep down, a part of you already knows that.

Because if you were really unqualified, you wouldn’t be in the room. You wouldn’t have the opportunity. You wouldn’t care so deeply. The fact that you do care means you’re showing up with integrity.

What Overcoming It Actually Looks Like

Overcoming imposter syndrome isn’t about waiting for the feeling to disappear. It’s about learning to act in spite of it.

Here’s how:

1. Name It

When the voice of doubt creeps in, call it what it is: imposter syndrome. Not truth. Not fact. Just fear dressed up as logic.

2. Gather Evidence

Write down your wins, achievements, and positive feedback. Keep a “proof file.” When imposter syndrome kicks in, revisit it. Remind yourself: You didn’t imagine this.

3. Talk About It

Shame thrives in silence. The moment you say, “Hey, I’ve been feeling like a fraud lately,” you’ll be surprised how many people say, “Me too.” You’re not alone—and never have been.

4. Do It Anyway

Confidence doesn’t come before action. It comes after you show yourself that you can survive discomfort and still rise. The antidote to doubt is doing the thing.

5. Detach From Perfection

You don’t need to be perfect to be worthy. You don’t need to know everything to make an impact. You’re allowed to learn as you go. Everyone else is, too.

You Belong in Every Room You Step Into

Imposter syndrome wants you to play small. But you’re not here to shrink. You’re here to expand.

You don’t need to hustle to prove your worth. You just need to remember it. The people who matter aren’t looking for flawless; they’re looking for real. And real is what you bring when you choose to show up, even when you’re scared.

So here’s the truth you may need to hear today:

You are not a fraud.

You are not underqualified.

You are not behind.

You are becoming—and that is powerful.

Keep going. Keep growing. Keep showing up like you belong—because you do.