When Doubt Creeps In

Ever get that feeling you’re going to be found out at any moment?

Like someone’s going to tap you on the shoulder and say, “Sorry, there’s been a mistake, you’re not actually meant to be here.” That, in a nutshell, is imposter syndrome.

It’s that little voice in your head that whispers “You’re not good enough” or “Everyone else knows what they’re doing, you’re just winging it.” Even when, on paper, there’s loads of evidence you’re doing just fine.

It tends to show up when we’re learning something new, taking a leap, or stepping into a different role. It’s definitely made itself known to me a few times recently, like, for example, writing this blog.

Anyone who knows me knows I’m more of a pictures-and-talking person than a writer. I’ve got dyslexia, so I often have the ideas but not always the words. So yes, me writing a blog about imposter syndrome while also feeling imposter syndrome? The irony is not lost on me.

So, what helps?

1. Name it. Normalise it.
The first step is recognising what’s going on. Sometimes you’re so caught up in your own thoughts, you don’t even realise that feelings of self-doubt have crept in. Once you’re more aware, you can pause and remind yourself: this is a common pattern, not a personal failing.

From there, you can start to move through it, shifting your mindset from self-doubt to self-awareness. Imposter syndrome thrives in silence. But when you start talking about it, with peers, a mentor, a coach, or a trusted friend, you quickly realise how common it is.

You are definitely not alone. Most people experience it at some point in their life.

2. Keep a record of your wins.
I’ll be honest, I was slightly cautious about this when it was first suggested to me. But it works, because it builds evidence. We have a natural tendency to focus on the negative. Keeping a record of your wins and achievements helps shift your mindset and anchor you in what’s true.

One way to do this is journaling. You can do it daily so you don’t forget things, but personally I like to do it on a Friday, to round off the week and set me up for the one ahead. Do whatever works for you.

Then, on tough days, go back and remind yourself what you’re capable of, and how far you’ve come.

3. Stop comparing your behind-the-scenes to everyone else’s highlight reel.
Social media can be inspiring, but it’s also a breeding ground for imposter feelings. I remember a time before social media (because yes, I’m that old), and it was so much easier to just get on and do your thing.

Even knowing this, it’s still hard not to get sucked into thinking everyone else has it all together. But the reality is, most people only share the polished version.

Remind yourself that you’re seeing a carefully curated snapshot, not the full story. For a more balanced view, try following people who are open about their challenges, or set some boundaries around your scrolling. Being mindful about what you consume can really change how you feel about your own progress.

4. Ask for feedback, and believe it.
Get regular, honest feedback and really listen to it. I know feedback can feel scary, no one likes to feel judged but when it’s delivered constructively, it can be incredibly positive and affirming.

It’s not just about the areas to improve (which we tend to fixate on), but about seeing the strengths we often overlook in ourselves. Sometimes others can see our brilliance more clearly than we can.

When feedback comes from a place of support and growth, it can be one of the most powerful tools for building confidence and clarity.

5. Find your people.
Whether it’s a colleague, friend, mentor, coach, or peer network, having someone who can say “I get it” makes all the difference.

Surrounding yourself with people who understand the ups and downs of the job helps you feel less alone, more grounded, and more confident in your own abilities. These relationships offer perspective, encouragement, and a safe space to say, “I’m finding this hard,” without fear of judgement.

For me, this is one of the most powerful tools to help me get out of my head and gain perspective, it can turn my whole day around in a moment.

It Gets Easier

The reality is imposter syndrome might not disappear overnight, but it loses power when you bring awareness to it, speak about it openly, and start to challenge the stories it tells you. Over time, you’ll build up your own bank of evidence, resilience, and self-belief.

Remember you are not alone, keep going, you’re doing better than you think.