There’s a strange irony in professional life: the more you accomplish, the more you may feel like a fraud. That’s impostor syndrome: When you quietly suspect that your success is just luck, timing, or a misunderstanding, and that sooner or later someone will find out you’re not as competent as they think.

I’ve seen it in young professionals stepping into their first leadership roles, and I’ve seen it in seasoned experts who are the go-to people in their field. The feeling doesn’t discriminate. But the good news? It can be managed and even turned into a source of growth.

Recognize the Signs

Impostor syndrome often shows up as:

• Doubting your skills despite evidence of competence
• Downplaying achievements (“Anyone could have done it”)
• Fear of being “found out”
• Overpreparing for tasks or avoiding opportunities entirely

The first step is awareness. Call it what it is: a mental habit, not a reflection of reality.

Challenge the Internal Critic

The little voice whispering “you’re not enough” thrives in silence. Counter it with facts:

• Keep a running list of wins: projects finished, problems solved, moments where your work mattered. Review it when self-doubt hits.
• Ask trusted colleagues or mentors for feedback. You’ll often find that others see strengths you’ve dismissed.

Remember: your perception is not always the truth. Data beats doubt.

Reframe Mistakes as Learning

Perfectionism feeds impostor syndrome. A slip-up becomes proof that you were never qualified. Instead, try reframing:

• Mistakes don’t equal incompetence; they’re proof of growth.
• Leaders and experts make errors, too – the difference is they learn and move on.

When you view mistakes as tuition for experience, their sting lessens.

Lean on Community

Isolation makes impostor feelings louder. Sharing them, ironically, can make them shrink.

• Find mentors who admit their own struggles.
• Support peers by being open about challenges.
• Celebrate wins together.

A healthy team culture normalizes vulnerability and recognizes effort, not just outcomes.

Keep Perspective

Impostor syndrome often appears when stepping into new responsibilities. That’s not failure, it’s growth. Being stretched means you’re evolving. If you never feel uncomfortable, you’re not advancing.

Think of it like a flight simulator for resilience: nerves are normal, turbulence doesn’t mean you’re falling.

Final Thoughts

Impostor syndrome may never entirely disappear, but it can be managed. Treat it as a signpost: you’re in territory that challenges and grows you. Instead of letting it drag you down, use it as fuel to keep learning, connecting, and building confidence brick by brick.

You earned your seat at the table. The work, the lessons, and the growth are proof – not luck.