How to Handle Imposter Syndrome in the Workplace

Have you ever walked into a meeting feeling like someone was about to “expose” you? Like one day they’ll realise you’re not as smart, polished, or capable as they think you are?

That voice in your head whispering “you don’t belong here” or “you just got lucky” has a name - Imposter Syndrome.

And it doesn’t discriminate. It hits high achievers, creatives, leaders, and women who are doing amazingly well… but don’t feel that way inside.

If you’ve ever questioned your worth at work, this one’s for you.

What Imposter Syndrome Really Is

Imposter Syndrome isn’t about lack of skill - it’s about lack of self-trust. It’s the inability to internalise success, despite evidence that you’ve earned your place. It shows up as:

✦ downplaying your achievements

✦ fearing failure

✦ overworking to “prove” yourself

✦ comparing yourself to others

✦ thinking success is luck, not talent

✦ avoiding opportunities out of fear you’ll be “found out”

Spoiler alert: You are not an imposter - you are just uncomfortable with how capable you really are.

1. Name It - So It Stops Running You

The first step is recognising what’s happening. That hesitation before speaking up? That nervousness when your name’s mentioned in a meeting? That inner critic tearing you down after you succeed? That’s Imposter Syndrome trying to shrink you.

Once you name it, you take away its power. And you stop mistaking fear for truth.

2. Separate Feelings From Facts

Your feelings may tell you:

✦ “I don’t deserve this role.”

✦ “I’m not as good as everyone else.”

✦ “They’ll replace me soon.”

But the facts say:

✦ You were hired.

✦ You’ve delivered results.

✦ You’ve been trusted with responsibility.

✦ You are still standing.

Feelings are not facts. Your record speaks for you.

3. Keep a “Proof File”

One of the most powerful ways to beat Imposter Syndrome is to collect evidence of your excellence. Create a digital or physical folder where you store:

✦ positive feedback

✦ achievements

✦ compliments

✦ performance reviews

✦ wins you’re proud of

When doubt creeps in, open that file and remind yourself: You didn’t imagine your growth - you earned it.

4. Stop Playing Down Your Greatness

When someone compliments you, don’t deflect. Instead of: “Oh, it was nothing.” Say: “Thank you, I worked hard on that.”

Confidence isn’t arrogant. It’s honest recognition of your effort. Practice owning your brilliance without apology.

5. Talk About It (You Are Not Alone)

Imposter Syndrome thrives in silence. Talk to:

✦ mentors

✦ colleagues you trust

✦ women in similar roles

✦ a coach

✦ your support circle

When you speak about it, you’ll realise: Every woman you admire has felt this too. You’re not weak for struggling. You’re human.

6. Rewire the Inner Dialogue

Start talking to yourself like you’d speak to another woman you deeply respect. Instead of: “I’m not good enough” Try: “I’m learning and growing daily.”

Instead of: “I don’t belong”Try:“I was chosen for a reason.”

You don’t fight Imposter Syndrome by working harder. You defeat it by thinking differently.

7. Don’t Wait to Feel Ready

Opportunity doesn’t come when you’re “perfect” - It comes when you’re brave enough to say yes anyway.

Apply for the role. Speak in the meeting. Pitch the idea. Lead the project. Confidence is grown through action.

Imposter Syndrome will lie to you, loudly. But you don’t have to listen. You are not here by chance. You are not pretending. You are not “lucky.”

You are capable. You are intelligent. You are worthy. And you are walking proof that you belong in every room you enter.

Straighten your crown. Lift your chin. And remember who you are. You are a Woman Who Slays.

Journal Prompts

✦ Where do I doubt myself the most at work?

✦ What proof do I have that contradicts that doubt?

✦ What would I do today if I fully believed in myself?

By|womenwhoslay

@womenwhoslay