How to conquer the impostor syndrome today?
Which Voice Will You Choose to Listen To?
Will it be the one that drags you deeper into anger, sadness, or despair? Or the one that helps you take a step back, gain perspective, and find the positive even in challenging situations?
This is what I want to talk to you about today.
If you’re like many leaders I work with, you’ve probably encountered the infamous impostor syndrome. In fact, who hasn’t?
Did you know that, according to a Korn Ferry study, 71% of American CEOs experience this syndrome? Think about that: 71% of the people at the very top of their organizations feel like frauds at times.
So, why do individuals as accomplished as you still struggle with impostor syndrome? And more importantly, how can you overcome it?
What Does Your Inner Impostor Say?
Take a moment to reflect on the thoughts that arise when you feel like an impostor. Perhaps they sound something like this:
"I am a fraud."
"I'm not good enough."
"They’ll figure out I don’t belong here."
These thoughts often tap into your deepest fears—fears tied to a sense of incompetence or inadequacy. Feeling uncomfortable in your role is natural, especially in today’s VUCA (volatile Uncertain Complex, ambiguity) world where everything changes constantly, where unpredictability leads the game.
Stepping into a new company, adapting to its culture, and navigating the complexities of a senior position only amplify these feelings.
The Gift Hidden in the Syndrome
Let me offer you a different perspective: what if impostor syndrome wasn’t your enemy? What if it held a valuable message for you?
I like to think of every challenge as an opportunity, much like the Chinese symbol for "crisis," which also means "opportunity." So, instead of letting self-critical thoughts define you, ask yourself:
What is impostor syndrome trying to tell me?
What can we learn from it?
Could it be that it’s there to help us?
Behind thoughts like “I’m a fraud,” there’s often discomfort—or perhaps even a plea for help. When you look beyond the judgment, you can start to uncover what you really need. Ask yourself:
Do I need support because my current approach isn’t working?
Do I need a break to recharge?
Is there a need for organizational change to move past a challenge?
Am I unhappy in my role and realizing it’s not the right fit for me?
Have I made a mistake and need to learn from it instead of hiding it?
The key question is: What is this feeling trying to tell me that I can’t hear because I’m too busy judging myself?
Listening to the Message
I know it’s not easy to listen to this message. The physical discomfort that comes with impostor syndrome—tightness in your chest, a knot in your stomach for instance—can make you want to run from it or suppress it altogether. But what if, instead of resisting, you leaned in?
Here’s an exercise for you:
Welcome the physical sensation, no matter how uncomfortable it feels.
Observe where in your body it manifests. Is it warm? Cold? Heavy? Light? Does it have a shape or color?
Once you’ve noticed it, connect with your breath and simply be present with the sensation.
Notice what happens:
Do certain thoughts surface?
Does the discomfort shift or change?
Does an emotion arise?
Turning Vulnerability Into Strength
Our fear of being seen as incompetent doesn’t have to be a burden we carry alone. Imagine what might happen if you shared your vulnerability with your team, reframing it as an opportunity for connection:
If you’re afraid you won’t gain the team’s buy-in, acknowledge it:
“Building trust with you is my top priority.”If you’re worried about being judged for taking your time to learn, say:
“I believe in understanding things deeply. That’s why I’m in learning mode right now.”
When you’re open about your fears and intentions, you’re not showing weakness—you’re showing humanity. And that vulnerability can be your greatest strength.
Conclusion: Your Leadership, Your Growth
Impostor syndrome isn’t here to defeat you; it’s here to teach you.
Taoism says: “what’s in the way, is the way.”
By leaning into the discomfort, you can turn it into an opportunity to grow.
Remember, great leaders aren’t defined by having all the answers. They’re defined by their ability to ask the right questions, create connections, and foster environments where everyone—including themselves—can thrive.
This adjustment period can be the foundation for authentic, impactful leadership. Listen to what impostor syndrome is telling you, and you’ll not only overcome it—you’ll emerge stronger, wiser, and more confident in your role.
