Raise your hand if you’ve ever felt like you have no idea what you’re doing at work. 🙋‍♀️🙋‍♂️ Imposter syndrome is that sneaky, relentless voice in your head whispering, “You don’t belong here. Everyone’s going to figure out you’re a fraud.” Even though you’re qualified (and probably overqualified), you can’t shake the feeling that you’re faking it—and that any day now, you’ll be found out.

Imposter syndrome is ridiculously common, especially among high achievers, perfectionists, and anyone stepping into new responsibilities. But here’s the thing: Just because you feel like an imposter doesn’t mean you are one.

Let’s unpack what imposter syndrome really is, why it happens, and most importantly—how to stop letting it mess with your career.

What Is Imposter Syndrome (And Why Is It So Relentless)?

Imposter syndrome is the nagging belief that you’re not as competent as others think you are—that your success is just luck, timing, or a series of well-executed flukes. No matter how much you accomplish, you still feel like you’re not really good enough.

It’s like your brain is gaslighting you, making you question every win, every compliment, and every reason you actually deserve to be where you are.

Signs You’re Dealing With Imposter Syndrome:

• You downplay your achievements, chalking them up to luck or external factors.
• You feel anxious when receiving praise because you don’t think you earned it.
• You compare yourself to colleagues and assume they’re more capable.
• You avoid new opportunities because you’re afraid of being exposed as “not good enough.”
• You set impossibly high standards for yourself, then beat yourself up when you don’t meet them.

If any (or all) of this resonates, congratulations—you’re a human with a functioning brain that’s trying to protect you. But that doesn’t mean you have to stay stuck in this cycle.

Why Does Imposter Syndrome Hit So Hard at Work?

Let’s be real: Work is one of the biggest places we tie our self-worth. It’s where we prove ourselves, get validation, and (let’s be honest) pay our bills. When you feel like you don’t measure up professionally, it hits deep.

Here’s why imposter syndrome loves to show up at work:

• New roles & promotions – Stepping into unfamiliar territory makes you hyper-aware of what you don’t know, making you doubt what you do know.
• High expectations – Whether from yourself, your boss, or your industry, the pressure to be exceptional all the time is overwhelming.
• Comparison culture – LinkedIn flexes, overachieving colleagues, and social media highlight reels make it seem like everyone else is thriving while you’re barely keeping up.
• Perfectionism – If your standard for success is “flawless,” you’re setting yourself up to always feel like you’re falling short.

The good news? Imposter syndrome is manageable—and it doesn’t have to control your work life worth.

How to Handle Imposter Syndrome at Work (Without Letting It Run the Show)

1. Name It: Call Out Your Imposter Syndrome

The first step? Recognizing what’s happening. That feeling of “I don’t belong here” isn’t a fact—it’s imposter syndrome talking. The next time those thoughts pop up, label them: “Oh hey, imposter syndrome, I see you.” It sounds simple, but naming it helps take away its power.

2. Keep a “Receipts” Folder

When your brain tries to convince you that you’re terrible at your job, show it the receipts. Start a folder (email, notes app, whatever works) where you save compliments, wins, positive feedback, and moments of success. When imposter syndrome flares up, revisit these to remind yourself: You’re not an imposter. You’re just doubting yourself.

3. Flip the Script: Reframe Your Thoughts

Instead of thinking:

• “I don’t know what I’m doing.” → Try: “I’m figuring this out like everyone else.”
• “I got lucky with that success.” → Try: “I put in the work, and it paid off.”
• “Someone else would do this better.” → Try: “I bring something valuable to the table.”

Your thoughts shape your reality. Talk to yourself the way you’d hype up a friend in your position.

4. Stop Comparing Your “Behind the Scenes” to Everyone Else’s Highlight Reel

Your coworker who always seems so confident? They probably have imposter syndrome too. The polished LinkedIn post? It doesn’t show the doubts, struggles, and mistakes behind the scenes. Focus on your progress instead of assuming everyone else has it figured out.

5. Accept That Growth Feels Uncomfortable

Feeling unsure or unqualified doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you’re growing. No one starts as an expert. Every person you admire has felt out of their depth at some point. Instead of seeing discomfort as a sign you don’t belong, recognize it as proof that you’re expanding your skillset.

6. Find People Who Get It

Talk about imposter syndrome with people you trust—colleagues, mentors, or friends. Chances are, they’ve been there too. Having open conversations about self-doubt makes it feel way less isolating and reminds you that even the most successful people question themselves sometimes.

7. Give Yourself Permission to Not Be Perfect

Perfection is a trap. No one—literally no one—is perfect at their job 100% of the time. Mistakes happen. Learning curves exist. Instead of aiming for perfection, aim for progress.

Redefining Your Worth at Work

Imposter syndrome doesn’t go away overnight, but you don’t have to let it run the show. You’re not a fraud. You’re not “just lucky.” You’re a capable, talented person who has earned your place.

Next time imposter syndrome shows up, remind yourself:

• You’re allowed to learn as you go.
• You don’t have to be the best to be valuable.
• You belong in the room—even if you don’t feel like it yet.

And if you ever need a reminder, come back to this post. Because you’re doing better than you think, and you’ve got this.

Still need more support? Schedule a free 15-min phone consult to see if we’d be a good fit to help you overcome imposter syndrome (applicable for South Carolina residents).

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by Samm Brenner Gautier, LPC, LPCS-C