Tackling imposter syndrome: How to begin

"I feel like a fraud. What do I do?"

As leadership coaches, we hear this sentiment across industries, roles and experience levels. Whether it’s, "I’m afraid I’m not good enough," "What if I can’t do it?" or "I don’t deserve to be here," these phrases reveal something deeper than nerves or temporary stress. They point to Imposter Syndrome — the workplace anxiety du jour and the quiet saboteur of confidence and growth.

Imposter Syndrome goes beyond self-doubt. It’s the persistent, internal narrative centered around a fear of being exposed as a fraud, despite evidence of competence. It often leads to avoidance, overwork or discounting achievements, reinforcing the belief that success is undeserved.