Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Building Confidence at Work

“Impostor Syndrome is a self-esteem issue” ~ Amanda Tobe

Up to 70% of professionals experience imposter syndrome at some point in their lives — that feeling that you don’t belong, that you’re not as capable as others think, or that your success is just luck.

I recently joined Dr. Tracy Dalgleish on the I’m Not Your Shrink podcast to talk about what imposter syndrome really is, why it shows up, and how to start shifting those patterns so you can thrive at work and beyond. This post shares some highlights from that conversation — but there’s much more in the full episode, including examples and strategies you can try right away.

What Imposter Syndrome Really Is

Imposter syndrome is more than self-doubt — it’s a deep, persistent belief that your accomplishments are due to chance, not skill, and that sooner or later, someone will “find you out.”

This mindset doesn’t just create anxiety; it can also hold you back from growth. People struggling with imposter syndrome often:

• Downplay their achievements

• Avoid new opportunities or “stretch” projects

• Overwork themselves to prove their worth

The good news? These beliefs aren’t fixed. With awareness and consistent practice, you can build confidence and show up as your true, capable self.

The 3 Rs Framework for Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

In the episode, I shared a simple but powerful framework I use with clients to help shift the beliefs that drive imposter syndrome.

1. Review – Build Awareness
Start by noticing your thoughts and beliefs. What stories are you telling yourself when you feel like you don’t belong? What patterns keep coming up at work or in your personal life?

2. Rewrite – Create New Beliefs
Once you’ve identified beliefs that don’t serve you, start replacing them with ones that do — beginning with a “realistic” belief you can accept now, and building toward your “ideal” belief over time.

3. Rewire – Practice New Patterns
Belief change takes repetition. Strategies like intention setting, thought journaling, mindfulness, or affirmations can help you build new mental pathways so you can approach challenges with confidence and clarity.

Take the Next Step

Imposter syndrome doesn’t have to hold you back. With the right tools and support, you can shift the patterns that keep you stuck and build the confidence to show up fully — at work and in life.

🎧 Listen to the full conversation on the I’m Not Your Shrink podcast to hear the complete discussion, including real-world examples and practical strategies to start using today.

Or, if you’re ready for personalized support, connect with our team. We help professionals across Ontario and Nova Scotia navigate imposter syndrome, build resilience, and thrive.

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