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How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome
- Shikha Kaushik
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome
“Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will.” – Suzy Kassem
Have you ever walked into a meeting, landed a big opportunity, or received praise, only to hear a voice in your head whisper, “You don’t deserve this. You’re a fraud. They’ll find out soon enough”? Welcome to the world of Imposter Syndrome, where even the most accomplished individuals secretly feel like they’re faking it.
From CEOs to artists, scientists to entrepreneurs, many successful people experience this internal battle. Even Maya Angelou, after publishing multiple books, admitted, "I've run a game on everybody, and they're going to find me out." If she felt this way, it’s safe to say you’re in excellent company. But here’s the truth: You are not a fraud. You are worthy of your success. And today, we’ll explore how to break free from this cycle of self-doubt.
You are not a fraud. You are worthy of your success.
1. Recognize It For What It Is
The first step in conquering imposter syndrome is acknowledging it. It’s not a reflection of your actual abilities; it’s a psychological pattern that distorts your perception of yourself.
In many cultures, there’s a saying that translates to, "The tree that bears fruit is the one people throw stones at." (Indian proverb) Meaning? The more you achieve, the more self-doubt may try to challenge you. Recognize this as a sign of growth rather than failure.
Quick Exercise: Write down three recent accomplishments. Now, instead of attributing them to luck, timing, or external factors, acknowledge the skills and effort that led to them.
2. Reframe Your Inner Dialogue
Your thoughts shape your reality. If you keep telling yourself, "I'm not good enough," your brain will find evidence to support it. Instead, try cognitive reframing:
"I just got lucky."
"My hard work and dedication led to this opportunity."
"Anyone could have done this."
"I put in the effort, and my skills made this possible."
A French saying goes, "L'esprit construit des murs plus hauts que ceux du monde." (The mind builds walls higher than the ones in the world.) Don’t let your mind be your biggest obstacle. Even Ted Lasso, the ultimate optimist, had moments of doubt stepping into a whole new sport. But like him, shifting your mindset can change everything!
3. Accept That Perfection Is a Myth
Perfectionism and imposter syndrome go hand in hand. Many of us feel like we need to be flawless before we can claim success. But guess what? No one is perfect. Even the most successful people make mistakes and continue learning.
Think of your favorite movie or book. Do you love it because it’s perfect or because it made you feel something? Imperfection is not failure—it’s human.
Imperfection is not failure—it’s human.
Quick Exercise: Write down one mistake you made recently and what you learned from it. Instead of seeing it as a failure, recognize it as growth in action.
4. Stop Comparing Your Backstage to Someone Else’s Highlight Reel
Social media makes it easy to believe that everyone has their life together, except you. But what you see is just the highlight reel, not the full story. For example, if you compare your struggles to someone else’s polished LinkedIn post about "closing six-figure deals" or "achieving work-life balance effortlessly," you’re not seeing the late nights, rejections, and self-doubt they faced to get there.
Bridget Jones spent too much time worrying about how she measured up to others until she realized that being unapologetically herself was her true strength!
Solution: Limit comparison. Follow people who inspire you, not those who trigger insecurity. Celebrate your progress instead of measuring it against others.
5. Take Action Despite The Fear
The best way to silence imposter syndrome? Keep showing up. Confidence doesn’t come before action; it follows it. Every time you step outside your comfort zone, you’re proving to yourself that you are capable.
A Spanish proverb says, "Caminante, no hay camino, se hace camino al andar." (Traveler, there is no path, the path is made by walking.) You don’t need all the answers, just take the next step.
Harry didn’t wait until he felt 'ready' to fight Voldemort; he acted despite his fears. Courage isn’t the absence of fear but moving forward anyway.
Quick Exercise: Identify one thing imposter syndrome has stopped you from doing. Now, set a small, achievable goal related to it and commit to taking action this week.
Just Know: You Belong Here
Imposter syndrome is not a reflection of your abilities; it’s proof that you’re pushing yourself into new, exciting territory. The next time self-doubt creeps in, remember this:
You earned your place.
You bring value to the table.
You are not alone in feeling this way.
As Michael Scott once wisely (or not-so-wisely) said, ‘You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.’ And if imposter syndrome ever creeps in, just ask yourself: ‘What would Moira Rose do?’ Then dramatically dismiss your doubts and carry on! (Michael Scott - The Office & Moira Rose - Schitt’s Creek)
You have earned your place, and you bring value to the table.
Your achievements are not accidents. They are the result of your dedication, effort, and passion. It’s time to own your success and step into your confidence. Because you belong here—and you always have.
Meet the expert:
Shikha Kaushik is a psychologist and the founder of Heal and Revive. With a passion for mental health and women's empowerment, she has helped individuals worldwide cultivate a balanced, confident, and self-loving mindset. Shikha combines psychology, mindfulness, and empowerment strategies to inspire lasting, positive change.
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