Imposter Syndrome — and Why It Might Actually Be Working in Your Favor

The first thing worth knowing? Imposter Syndrome tends to appear not when we fail — but when we succeed. It brings up the feeling that you’re not as good or as professional as people think, and that at any moment someone will realize you shouldn’t really be here. This is especially common among people with high personal standards, those who push themselves toward ambitious goals, and individuals who feel different from the group they are in — a woman in a room of men, someone of a different cultural background, or the only person who looks or sounds a certain way. Internally, it signals a gap between how others see you and how you feel inside. “They think I’m confident and capable, but soon they’ll realize it was all a mistake.” A simple way to recognize Imposter Syndrome is this: people who experience it often attribute their success to luck, timing, or external circumstances, rather than to their effort, strengths, or the knowledge they’ve earned over time. So why does it happen? First, because you know every detail of your inner world — the doubts, the hesitations, the places where you still feel inexperienced. Others see the outcome; you remember every step of the process. Second, the brain naturally scans for danger and potential mistakes. This creates a bias that makes situations appear more negative or risky than they truly are, and we end up feeling that way too. Third, new opportunities and stepping outside your comfort zone are some of the strongest triggers for Imposter Syndrome. When you step into a new role, start a business, or take on more responsibility, the pressure to prove yourself increases, and the inner doubt can grow louder. A classic example I see often in my coaching space is the difficulty of marketing yourself when you’re just starting out. It’s so easy to compare yourself to professionals with years of experience. Standing next to their confidence, the shrinking thought appears: “How can I put my offer out into the world when I’m not at their level yet?” If this feels familiar, you’re not alone. Most people experience these feelings during times of growth and transition. If Imposter Syndrome feels so uncomfortable, how can it possibly be in your favor? Even though it’s not pleasant — and definitely not a goal — it can, like many emotions that arise during change, reveal something meaningful and encourage growth when it shows up in moderation. Here’s how it can serve you: 1.It signals importance and evolution. These feelings arise around things that matter: a new role, a shifting identity, or a new level of visibility. They’re not a sign of misalignment — they show up because you’re entering a stage that hasn’t yet become familiar, and that’s part of growth. 2.It can boost motivation and drive. Many people respond to Imposter feelings by preparing more, focusing more, or bringing extra intention and energy to their work. As long as it doesn’t push you into burnout, this inner push can be a powerful force. 3.It deepens humility, authenticity, and learning. Research shows that Imposter feelings can increase self-awareness, reflection, and openness to feedback. Professionally, this mindset can be an incredible asset. 4.It reflects genuine care. People who don’t care do not experience Imposter Syndrome. Your discomfort is a reminder of how deeply you care about the quality of your work, your clients, and your responsibility. It’s not a weakness — it’s a resource. So what can you do to feel less overwhelmed by it? Talk about it. Shame grows in silence. You may be surprised how many people you admire — those who look endlessly confident — have experienced the same thing. Focus on small, doable steps . Imposter thoughts often push you toward perfection, but perfection only leads to overwhelm. Break things down. Choose the next small step. Each step builds evidence that challenges the inner narrative. Question the thought, not yourself. Instead of asking “What’s wrong with me?”, try asking “Is this thought actually true, or is it simply a moment of self-doubt while I’m growing into something new?” Sometimes this shift alone softens the fear. Remember you don’t have to navigate this alone. This is emotional work, and it takes time. Support can make the path clearer and easier to hold. Sometimes one conversation with a professional who recognizes these patterns can bring clarity, relief, and space to breathe. And finally, don’t let Imposter Syndrome stop you. Even if the thought “I don’t belong here” appears, it is still just a thought — not a fact. Reality tells a very different story: you got here for a reason, through effort, not accident. You can. You’re worthy. And if you want to take this reflection one layer deeper, consider this: where in your life do you feel moments of “being an imposter,” and what might that reveal about the part of you that’s already growing?