Impostor Syndrome: Recognising It, Managing It, and Moving Forward

Impostor syndrome is a master of disguise. It convinces high-achievers that their success is luck, not skill. It turns self-doubt into a habit, making it easier to believe criticism than compliments. No matter how much you accomplish, it whispers, “You’re not good enough.”

Why Does Impostor Syndrome Thrive?

At its core, impostor syndrome feeds on comparison. The more we measure ourselves against others, the stronger it grows. Social media, workplace competition, and high expectations create a perfect breeding ground for these feelings. But the moment you stop comparing, impostor syndrome starts to lose its power.

The Cycle of Overworking and Burnout

Many people respond to impostor syndrome by overworking—trying to prove they’re worthy. But this constant need to validate ourselves is exhausting and often leads to burnout. Success isn’t about working harder to quiet the inner critic; it’s about learning to move forward despite the doubts.

Flipping the Script on Self-Doubt

• Recognise it – Impostor syndrome is proof that you care. It shows up when you step into the unknown, where real growth happens.
• Celebrate small wins – Your achievements—big or small—are valid. Taking a moment to acknowledge them builds confidence.
• Aim for “good enough” – Perfection isn’t the goal. Accepting “good enough” can reduce stress and actually improve productivity.
• Shift your mindset – Your worth isn’t defined by perfection or external validation. True success is about progress, not just praise.

Your Inner Critic vs. Reality

Impostor syndrome makes success feel like a fluke while failure feels permanent. It’s like our inner critic works overtime while our confidence takes a coffee break. But the truth is, we all experience these feelings. The key is to recognise them, challenge them, and move forward anyway.

Final Thought: It’s You vs. You

Instead of battling impostor syndrome, use it as a sign that you’re pushing boundaries. Fear of being exposed as “not enough” is just a mental hurdle. The real challenge isn’t proving yourself to others—it’s believing in yourself.

Want to Help Others Overcome Impostor Syndrome?

If you’re passionate about helping others build confidence and overcome self-doubt, our coaching and mentoring courses are designed for you. Whether you work in-company or as an independent coach, our programs will equip you with the skills to support individuals through challenges like impostor syndrome, career transitions, and personal growth.

Explore our Coaching & Mentoring courses