Imposter Syndrome

Ever feel like an imposter? Like you don’t belong? It’s an uncomfortable feeling; that pit in our stomach or those racing doubts inside our head. We shouldn’t be here. Here’s the good news: I’ve yet to meet someone who hasn’t felt like an imposter. Research suggests that about 70% of people have admitted to feeling like an imposter at some point in their life. The experience is pretty universal. For me personally, it certainly crept in when writing my book, interviewing guests for my podcast, speaking to audiences, and even during my 1-on-1 coaching sessions. There are times when I question if I truly have the knowledge, chops, and overall ability to deliver. Even while writing this post, the imposter in me is telling me I am not qualified to share my thoughts. Perhaps, you’re familiar with the imposter syndrome, but if not, here’s some background.

Imposter syndrome is a psychological pattern in which an individual doubts their skills, talents or accomplishments and has a persistent, internalized fear of being exposed as a "fraud.” The persistent thoughts are what derail us. What we empower we often become. We all have thoughts and feelings that don’t serve us. In a society that tells people to just “be positive,” we are often told to lean into the thoughts that are helpful while shoving the thoughts that are not aside. That can help sometimes, but what do we do if those imposter thoughts and feelings continue to show up time and time again?

Lean into those thoughts and feelings too. That’s right. Own the fact that you feel like an imposter. Step into your own vulnerability. Once you acknowledge the elephant in the room, the elephant shrinks. Just feeling like an imposter means that you are in an environment that you respect. It’s a special position to be in. A privilege. Tap into the gratitude that you have for being there. Acknowledge how appreciative you are. It’s hard to be grateful and stressed at the same time. Once you acknowledge the imposter, the imposter feelings and thoughts will often diminish. Still there? Feel free to answer the doubts in your head with data on your competence and preparation. Speak truth to any of the doubtful lies. And when the doubts are true, smile at them, pet them, and remind yourself that you can do hard things and learn from challenges.

We are all imposters. The goal isn’t to never feel like one. Rather, it’s to be equipped to stare that version of you in the eyes and step into the actions and behaviors that you are capable of. Here’s to the imposters. All of us. We’re exactly where we need to be.