How I Tackle Imposter Syndrome and Keep Leading Forward

Leading teams is one of the most rewarding challenges out there. It stretches you to grow, pushes you to think differently, and, at its best, elevates not only your performance but also the success of your team. But let’s be real—it’s not always easy. Especially when you're grappling with that nagging inner voice that says you’re not good enough.

If you’ve ever caught yourself thinking:

• “I’m not smart/capable/experienced enough to be in this role.”

• “They must have made a mistake picking me.”

• “Any minute now, they’re going to figure out I’m winging it.”

• “Why can’t I be as [insert impressive trait] as that person?”

...then congratulations—you’re human. And you’ve likely encountered Imposter Syndrome.

What Is Imposter Syndrome, Really?

At its core, Imposter Syndrome is the persistent belief that you’re not as competent as others perceive you to be. It's the internal disconnect between how others see you and how you see yourself. Left unchecked, it can chip away at your confidence and impact your ability to lead effectively.

But here’s the good news: you’re not alone, and you can learn to manage it. Here’s what’s worked for me:

1. Name It to Tame It

The first step is simple, but powerful: acknowledge it. Like with any vices: awareness is half the battle. When I notice those intrusive, self-critical thoughts, I stop and ask myself: Is this reality, or is this just the Imposter talking?

Journaling has been my go-to tool for this. It helps me get outside of my own head and spot patterns—like how I often feel like a fraud when starting a new role. Knowing that in advance helps me stay grounded and avoid spiraling.

2. Talk About It—Seriously

One of the most damaging aspects of Imposter Syndrome is the isolation. We convince ourselves that we’re the only ones feeling this way, so we don’t talk about it—and the silence just makes it worse.

I used to think sharing my doubts would make people question my abilities. But when I finally opened up, I discovered something powerful: most people have felt the exact same way at some point.

When you realize you’re not the exception, it becomes easier to reframe those feelings. Instead of seeing self-doubt as a weakness, I started seeing it as a sign that I was stepping into something meaningful and unfamiliar—a place where real growth happens.

How I Fight Imposter Sydrnome

3. Do an Ego Check

This one hits me hard: Imposter Syndrome can actually be a form of ego.

Think about it. When I say, “I’m not capable of doing what I need to do” what I’m really saying is, “I tricked everyone else to think I’m good.” That’s not humility. That’s ego in disguise.

True leadership isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being real. When you obsess over every compliment, downplay your strengths, or fixate on small mistakes, you're making it all about you. And leadership is never about you—it’s about the impact you have on others.

Recognizing when my ego is running the show helps me step back, reconnect with my purpose, and refocus on what truly matters: moving forwards.

4. Track the Small Wins

Imposter Syndrome thrives in ambiguity and inactivity. But the fastest way to combat it? Show yourself the receipts!

Whenever I feel stuck, I shift my focus to action—small, concrete actions. I journal my wins, no matter how tiny they seem. I look for opportunities to create progress:

• Tackle a chore I’ve been avoiding at home or at work.

• Read a number of pages from my current reads.

• Prep notes for an upcoming meeting.

• Break a big project into smaller steps

Each small win builds momentum. Each action proves, quietly and consistently, that I am capable. And over time, those tiny wins start to silence that inner critic.

Progress Over Perfection

At the end of the day, we’re not as terrible as we fear or as flawless as we think we are. We all have areas where we shine and areas where we’re still learning. And that’s okay.

Imposter Syndrome doesn’t disappear overnight—but it does lose power when we choose growth over fear, action over paralysis, and progress over perfection.

So if you’re feeling like a fraud today, remind yourself: you're not alone. Keep showing up. Keep learning. And most importantly—keep leading forwards.