When Imposter Syndrome Speaks, Pay Attention

Imposter Syndrome is one of those buzzwords that has taken the professional world by storm. It's that nagging feeling of inadequacy—the sense that despite your accomplishments, you’re just faking it and eventually everyone will find out.

But here’s the uncomfortable truth: there is a kernel of truth to it.

When we step into a new role, tackle a challenging project, or even if we're just achieving professionally in a way we never felt possible - we are, by definition, operating in uncharted territory. We may not have all the answers, and we’re likely to stumble along the way. And we are afraid for a reason.

The difference lies in how we frame that initial gap in skills, knowledge or experience. What if imposter syndrome is just a natural response to growth? What if it’s a signal that you’re stretching yourself, leaving your comfort zone, and learning something new?

We would never accuse a toddler of being an imposter when they’re learning to walk. We recognize the process for what it is—a messy, clumsy, but ultimately necessary journey toward mastery. Why, then, do we hold ourselves to such impossibly high standards as adults?

Imposter syndrome often thrives in a vacuum of context. It’s easy to look at successful people and assume they were always confident, competent, and sure of themselves. But every master was once a beginner. Every leader has faced moments of doubt. The key difference is that they kept going anyway.

it’s not helpful when people dismiss imposter syndrome by saying, “Everyone has imposter syndrome.” While that may be true, this statement can sometimes feel like an excuse to brush off those feelings, as if they don’t matter. But that thought—the one telling you that you’re out of your depth or questioning your place—is trying to tell you something. What happens when you to listen to it?

Instead of resisting, what if we embraced Imposter Syndrome as a companion to growth, and an impactful way to really determine how to improve as a leader? Rather than letting it paralyze us, we can use it as a cue to ask better questions:

• What skills or knowledge do I need to build to feel more confident in this role?

• Who can I reach out to for guidance or mentorship?

• What’s one small, actionable step I can take today to close the gap?

Acknowledging the truth in imposter syndrome doesn’t mean giving it the power to define us. It means recognizing that growth often feels uncomfortable, and discomfort doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you’re trying.

So the next time that little voice whispers, “You don’t belong here,” remember: it’s just fear talking. And fear doesn’t get the final say. You do.