Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: When Success Feels Undeserved

“I’m not sure I belong here”

“They’ll realise I don’t know as much as they think, and then I’ll be caught out”

“I just got lucky”

“I was only asked to do this job because there was no-one else”

Sound familiar? These are the voices of what some people call imposter syndrome, a silent struggle that some of even the most accomplished leaders face. Despite their experience and achievements, many still doubt their worth, fearing they’ll be “found out.”

Why does imposter syndrome persist?

It often stems from high expectations – sometimes external, but usually mainly self-generated.  Perfectionists, high achievers, and those stepping into new roles are especially vulnerable. The irony? Many who experience imposter syndrome are actually highly competent and respected by their peers and teams.

How can leaders move past it?

Recognise it for what it is. Self-doubt isn’t proof of inadequacy, it’s proof that you care about your own performance. Acknowledge imposter thoughts without letting them dominate you.

Reframe your narrative. Instead of thinking, “I don’t know enough,” try “I’m always learning, and that makes me a better leader.” Growth comes from embracing what we don’t know and doing something about that, not fearing it.

Focus on facts, not feelings. Feel like you don’t deserve your success? Look at your track record. Would you doubt a colleague with your experience and achievements? Probably not.  So why hold yourself to a different standard?

Instead of trying to eliminate imposter syndrome, try shifting your perspective. If you never felt a little out of your depth, you would not be pushing yourself to improve. The goal is not to remove self-doubt entirely but to prevent it from controlling your actions.