Imposter syndrome is the persistent feeling that you’re not as capable as people think, and that sooner or later you’ll be found out, despite real evidence of your skills. To overcome it, start by noticing the pattern, separating feelings from facts, keeping a record of what you’ve achieved, and talking about it, because it loses much of its power once it’s said out loud.
It’s one of the most common things I hear, from people who, on paper, are doing brilliantly.
“Everyone thinks I know what I’m doing.”
“I just got lucky.”
“Any day now, someone’s going to realise.”
If that sounds familiar, you’re far from alone. One often-quoted estimate suggests around 70% of people experience imposter feelings at some point in their lives.
What imposter syndrome feels like
- Putting your success down to luck, timing or other people.
- Over-preparing for everything, just in case.
- Brushing off compliments, or feeling uncomfortable when you receive them.
- Holding back from opportunities because you don’t feel “ready”.
- Feeling relief rather than pride when something goes well.
Where it comes from
At its core, imposter syndrome is a gap between how capable you are and how capable you feel. It often grows from early experiences: being the “clever one” and fearing you couldn’t live up to it, being compared to others, or growing up where love felt like it had to be earned.
It also tends to show up at moments of growth: a new job, a promotion, becoming a parent, starting a business. In other words, it often appears precisely because you’re stretching yourself.
The patterns that keep it going
Imposter feelings tend to feed themselves. You worry you’ll be found out, so you overwork. The work goes well, but you put it down to the overworking, not to your ability. So next time, you overwork again.
Or you avoid the challenge altogether, and never get the evidence that you could have done it.
Either way, the belief stays untouched.
How to start overcoming imposter syndrome
- Name it. Simply saying “this is imposter syndrome talking” creates a little distance between you and the feeling.
- Separate feelings from facts. Feeling like a fraud is not evidence that you are one.
- Keep a record of your achievements. Write down your successes, the kind feedback and the problems you’ve solved. Read it when doubt creeps in.
- Let yourself be a beginner. Not knowing everything yet is part of learning, not proof that you don’t belong.
- Embrace a growth mindset. See challenges as opportunities to learn, and mistakes as part of the process rather than a verdict on you.
- Talk about it. You’ll often discover the people you admire feel exactly the same.
How life coaching can help
Coaching gives you a supportive space to explore the beliefs underneath imposter syndrome, challenge the thoughts that keep it going, and build confidence that rests on something real. Together we look at your strengths, set goals that stretch you without overwhelming you, and practise new ways of responding when the old voice starts up.
You didn’t get here by accident. You’re allowed to believe it.
Frequently asked questions
What is imposter syndrome?
It’s the persistent feeling that you’re less capable than others believe and will eventually be found out, even when there’s clear evidence of your skills and achievements.
How do you overcome imposter syndrome?
Notice and name the pattern, separate feelings from facts, keep a record of your achievements, allow yourself to learn, and talk about it with someone you trust or a coach.
Can a life coach help with imposter syndrome?
Yes. Coaching helps you explore the beliefs behind it, challenge unhelpful thoughts and build confidence based on real evidence.
If you recognise yourself in this, you don’t have to work through it alone. I offer self-esteem and confidence coaching at my practice in Fulham, London, and the first call is free. Book a free introductory call.
Georgiana George