Why we all feel like we’re faking it

Imposter syndrome isn’t a sign of failure—it’s proof that you care

Ever have that moment where you’re in a meeting, offering ideas, and suddenly think, “Why am I even here? These people are going to figure out I have no idea what I’m doing.”

That sinking feeling? That’s imposter syndrome—the nagging voice that tells you you’re not qualified, you’re fooling everyone, and sooner or later, you’re going to be exposed.

Here’s the reality: Everyone feels this way

Even the most confident leaders, successful CEOs, and top performers have had these thoughts. The irony? The people who struggle with imposter syndrome the most are often the ones who care the most about doing good work.

• High achievers feel it because they constantly raise their own bar.

• New leaders feel it because they don’t have past experience to validate them yet.

• Creative people feel it because they see infinite ways their work could be better.

The trick isn’t to eliminate imposter syndrome—it’s to reframe it

Instead of treating that self-doubt as a warning sign that you’re in over your head, recognize it for what it really is: growth.

Imposter syndrome means you’re challenging yourself.

If everything you did felt easy and comfortable, you’d be stagnating. Doubt shows up most when you’re in uncharted territory.

You’re comparing your behind-the-scenes to everyone else’s highlight reel.

You know every mistake you’ve made, every moment of uncertainty—but you only see the polished, public-facing version of others. That’s not a fair comparison.

You don’t need to feel confident to be competent.

Confidence comes from experience, not the other way around. The only way to build that confidence is to keep showing up, doing the work, and proving to yourself that you belong.

Final thought

The fact that you’re questioning yourself doesn’t mean you’re unqualified—it means you’re pushing yourself to be better.

So the next time imposter syndrome creeps in, don’t panic. Take it as a sign that you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.

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