Conquering Imposter Syndrome: Your Guide to Self-Empowerment and Success

Written by: Lissi Daniels | Sometimes, we hear a voice telling us “you’re just not good enough”. Well, that voice has a name, Imposter Syndrome.  Don’t worry though. That’s the voice of a liar. You’re capable of amazing things, and making mistakes is part of the journey.

Imposter syndrome is that persistent worry that you're not truly skilled and that eventually, others will notice. It often appears as self-doubt, attributing your achievements to luck instead of talent, and fearing that you'll be unmasked. According to a study by the International Journal of Behavioral Science, an estimated 70% of people experience imposter syndrome at some point in their lives.

You are not alone. Imposter syndrome is far too common, especially for women in male-dominated fields and for anyone who feels like they don’t quite fit in.  And guess what, despite the smile that I wear and the energy that you see, I’ve been there too. Despite all of my hard work and achievements, I’ve heard that voice, saying “I’m not good enough.  My luck will run out.”  

The good news? As with any enemy, Imposter Syndrome can be overcome.  With the right mindset and a bit of self-belief, you can rise above and outrun that self doubt.

As a speaker and creative influence in an industry full of talent, I often find myself doubting my worth. Despite years of experience and a portfolio of successful projects, there's a persistent voice in my head that questions if I'm really good enough. Every time I step onto a stage, that voice whispers, "What if they find out you’re just winging it?"

I remember one particular event where I was slated to give a keynote speech. Surrounded by industry giants and thought leaders, I felt like a small fish in a very large pond. My palms were sweaty, and I could feel my heart racing. "Do I really belong here?" I thought to myself. But then I took a deep breath and reminded myself of my journey—the countless hours of hard work, the feedback from listeners who found value in my words, and the unique perspective I bring to the table.

Speaking from personal experience, imposter syndrome can be pretty crippling. But the first step to conquering it is recognizing it’s something a lot of people go through. Once you realize you’re not alone, it gets easier to push back against those nagging doubts.

Instead of zeroing in on what you think are your flaws, why not celebrate your strengths and accomplishments? No win is too small to acknowledge. Progress, not perfection, is what counts. Setting realistic goals and tracking your achievements can help keep you motivated and show you just how far you’ve come.

There was a time when I completed a project that received good reviews. Initially, I chalked it up to luck. But as positive feedback kept pouring in, I started to see that my unique voice and perspective were making a real impact. I learned to celebrate these victories, however small they seemed, and it boosted my confidence.

Don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Whether it’s a friend, family member, mentor, or colleague, having someone to talk things through with can make a world of difference. Practicing self-care and being kind to yourself is also crucial—everyone makes mistakes, and that’s okay.

Being authentic to yourself is powerful, even more so when you feel out of place. It takes guts to be yourself, especially in environments where you feel like you don’t fit in. However, being true to who you are can help you achieve your goals and make a significant impact in your field. Believe in yourself and your abilities, and don’t let those pesky negative thoughts hold you back.

As I continue to grow my speaking career and explore new creative avenues, I remind myself to stay true to my voice. It's easy to get caught up in trying to emulate others who seem more successful or experienced. However, I've found that my authenticity is what resonates most with my audience. Staying genuine and offering valuable, fresh insights keeps my content engaging and builds a loyal listener base.

Overcoming imposter syndrome is a journey, and it won’t happen overnight. But with a growth mindset and a willingness to keep learning, you can beat it. Embrace who you are, believe in yourself, and don't let imposter syndrome stop you from reaching your dreams.

Remember, you are more capable than you think. Keep pushing forward, and let your unique talents shine.

If you want to dive deeper, here are some excellent resources:

• Books: "The Secret Thoughts of Successful Women" by Valerie Young, "Daring Greatly" by Brené Brown.
• Articles: Check out Psychology Today's section on imposter syndrome.
• Online Resources: Websites like Mind Tools offer practical advice and exercises.