Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Rewriting the Story of Self-Doubt

This episode dives into a topic that resonates deeply with so many of us: Imposter Syndrome.

In 2024, searches for imposter syndrome surged by 75%, with studies revealing that 78% of business leaders have experienced it at some point in their careers. Despite undeniable achievements, you may feel like you don’t belong—that your success is luck, not skill. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.

Imposter Syndrome doesn’t have to hold you back. In this episode, we’ll explore what it is, why mid-career professionals are particularly vulnerable, and how societal norms and workplace culture fuel self-doubt. Through my personal story of confronting imposter syndrome, I’ll share practical tools and strategies to reframe your thoughts, challenge self-doubt, and embrace your accomplishments.

You’ll learn to:
✅ Identify and rewrite the narratives holding you back.
✅ Build confidence with simple, actionable steps like keeping a “win journal.”
✅ Leverage the power of gratitude, feedback, and self-compassion to foster resilience.

We’ll also hear inspiring examples of leaders and trailblazers—like Sheryl Sandberg and Viola Davis—who overcame imposter syndrome to reach new heights.

This is your time to step into your power, own your value, and rewrite the story of self-doubt. Don’t let imposter syndrome call the shots—you do.

Takeaway: Self-doubt is just a story. Rewrite it, own your success, and step into the career you deserve.

 Visit yourbreakthrough.app, for more career inspiration.

Connect on LinkedIn.

🎧 Tune in now for an inspiring and transformative conversation.

Thank you for listening! For more information on mid-career transformation, visit AI4CareerSuccess.com. Connect with me on LinkedIn.

Transcript

SPEAKER_00: 0:01

Episode two Overcoming Imposter Syndrome.

SPEAKER_02: 0:10

This day's too late now. The york shines behind ya. But wisdom's in your gaze. Passion on fire. You've got stories to tell. And dreams to inspire. Rise above the noise. Take your place high.

SPEAKER_00: 0:36

This episode of the Mid-Career Makeover Show is sponsored by Get a Better Job Career Branding.

SPEAKER_03: 0:42

In a world where first impressions are made in the blink of an eye, your resume is more than just a piece of paper. It's your story, your brand, your future. Imagine a resume that doesn't just list your experiences, but brings them to life. A resume that doesn't whisper, but shouts your potential from the rooftops. Get a Better Job invites you to the visual resume evolution, a movement where your career story unfolds with color, design, and undeniable passion. You have the power to redefine the standard, to turn the tide in your favor. With Get a Better Job, every line, every graphic, every bold choice marks a step towards your destiny. Don't wait. Elevate your career path today. With Get a Better Job, be seen, be memorable, and yes, get hired. Your next chapter starts here, and it's nothing short of extraordinary.

SPEAKER_00: 1:42

To learn more about Get a Better Job Career Branding, visit getabetterjob.org. Welcome to the Mid-Career Makeover Show. I'm your host, Levon McKiver James, career branding strategist and coach. Today I want to talk about something that has affected me profoundly, and that is imposter syndrome. I know I am not alone because research indicates that in 2024, searches for imposter syndrome surged 75%. According to NerdWallet, 78% of business leaders have experienced imposter syndrome at some point in their careers. In fact, the more you've achieved, the more likely you have suffered from imposter syndrome. Have you ever felt like no matter how much you achieve, it's never enough? Like everyone else has it all figured out and you're just winging it? Trust me, you're not alone. This is a story so many of us tell ourselves, a narrative of self-doubt that whispers in our ears and keeps us playing small. But what if I told you that this story isn't the truth? It's just that a story. And today we're going to rewrite it. Let's take a step back. What is imposter syndrome? Imposter syndrome is a psychological phenomenon characterized by persistent self-doubt and a fear of being exposed as a fraud despite undeniable proof of success. Let's start by getting clear on what self-doubt really is. Self-doubt isn't a sign of weakness. It's often a sign that you care deeply about what you're doing. But when it becomes that constant nagging voice in your head, it can hold you back from opportunities and success. Despite external evidence of competence, those experiencing imposter syndrome often dismiss their achievements as luck, timing, or the result of deceiving others into thinking they are more capable than they truly are. For mid-career professionals, this phenomenon can be especially debilitating. I know for many of my clients at mid-career is where they have increasing financial and family responsibilities. This pressure can lead to insecurity and anxiety, and the next thing you know, you're doubting if you're really as great as you truly are. After years of experience and hard work, the weight of imposter syndrome can create barriers to your career growth and personal fulfillment. For some of you, unfortunately, it already has. The stakes are high. Whether it's presenting ideas to leadership, negotiating a raise, or pursuing a new opportunity, imposter syndrome has held you back from reaching your full potential. So today, if that's you, let's explore some practical tools and strategies to help you regain your confidence, overcome self-doubt, and embrace your achievements. By addressing the root causes of your feelings, you can turn the tide and reclaim your narrative. Remember, imposter syndrome doesn't call the shots. You do. Here are some signs to watch for. Self-doubt. You're always second-guessing your skills or feeling like you're not good enough. Perfectionism. If it's not flawless, you feel like it's a failure. Sound familiar? Fear of failure. You avoid taking risks because messing up or hearing criticism feels unbearable. Downplaying achievements. Instead of owning your wins, you chalk them up to luck or someone else's help. These symptoms can be subtle but pervasive, influencing how you perceive yourself and interact in professional environments. For instance, do you hesitate to apply for promotions, doubting your qualifications despite meeting every single criteria? Or do you avoid speaking up in meetings, fearing that your ideas will be dismissed or criticized, even though you often have the best ideas in the room? Is that you? Think about it.

SPEAKER_04: 5:35

Are you ready to break through the noise and build a career that truly reflects your potential? In How to Think Like a Leader to Build a Career brand that accelerates your success, Lavon McIver James shares the proven strategies behind her brand breakthrough system. Learn how to think like a leader, craft your unique value proposition, and tell a story that commands attention. Whether you're looking to stand out in your current role or land your next big opportunity, this book is your guide to taking control of your career and your future. Don't wait for success to find you. Create it. Get your copy of How to Think Like a Leader to build a career brand that accelerates your success today and start building the brand and life you deserve. Available on Amazon.

SPEAKER_00: 6:22

I'll never forget when I was recruited for my first six-figure PR job, I was absolutely terrified. The headhunter assured me that they'd heard amazing things about me, how talented I was, how driven, but inside I was crumbling. I couldn't shake the feeling that I didn't belong there. Every morning, I would walk into that shiny high-rise office with my heart pounding, convinced that today was the day they'd realized they'd made a mistake. I told myself that my success so far had been pure luck or maybe a fluke. I felt like I was constantly one misstep away from being found out. The fear paralyzed me. I overanalyzed every email I sent, every word I said in meetings. I'd stay late at the office, not because the work demanded it, but because I was terrified that if I didn't, someone would think I wasn't working hard enough. The truth was, I could hardly focus. Imposter syndrome had me so wrapped up in my own head that I was barely functioning. Then one day, I hit a wall. I was preparing for a major presentation with a client. A huge opportunity for my career. And I felt the familiar wave of panic rising. My inner critic was relentless. What if they ask a question you can't answer? What if you mess up and embarrass yourself? I sat there staring at my notes and I realized something had to change. That night I went home and did something I'd been avoiding. I made a list of all the reasons why I deserved to be in that room. Not why I got lucky, not why someone else made a mistake in hiring me, why I deserved it. I wrote down the successful campaigns I'd led, the relationships I'd built, the skills I'd honed over years of hard work. It was uncomfortable at first, almost embarrassing, but slowly it started to sink in. I realized that imposter syndrome was lying to me. The next morning, I walked into that client meeting with a different mindset. I wasn't faking confidence, but I reminded myself of something powerful. Even if I didn't have all the answers, I was capable of figuring them out. I focused on being present, on listening, and on showing up as the version of myself I knew I could be. And guess what? The presentation went better than I could have imagined, not because I was perfect, but because I allowed myself to trust in my own abilities for the first time in a long time. Overcoming imposter syndrome didn't happen overnight. It's something I still have to work on, but that experience taught me an important lesson. The stories we tell ourselves are powerful. When you rewrite those stories, when you replace I'm not enough with I'm learning, I'm capable, I belong, everything begins to shift. If you've ever felt like you don't belong in the room, let me tell you, you absolutely do. And the sooner you stop letting imposter syndrome hold you back, the sooner you'll realize just how much you have to offer. Understanding the signs of imposter syndrome is crucial because it helps you separate your feelings from facts. Acknowledging that imposter syndrome exists doesn't mean you're weak or unqualified. It's a step toward regaining control. With awareness comes the ability to confront and challenge these thoughts head on. You also have to understand that imposter syndrome doesn't emerge in a vacuum. Its origins often lie in early experiences, societal pressures, and workplace dynamics. Many people with imposter syndrome were high achievers in childhood, praised for their accomplishments, but not necessarily for their effort. This creates a dynamic where success becomes tied to external validation rather than intrinsic worth. Two important factors contribute to imposter syndrome, societal norms and workplace culture. In competitive professional environments, the pressure to excel can amplify feelings of inadequacy. Women, minorities, and other underrepresented groups often face additional challenges, such as biases and stereotypes, which can exacerbate self-doubt. For example, a study by the International Journal of Behavioral Science found that nearly 70% of people experience imposter syndrome at some point in their lives. This includes prominent figures like Maya Angelo, who admitted to feeling like a fraud despite her celebrated literary achievements. Understanding that even successful individuals face imposter syndrome helps contextualize the experience. Workplace culture is another contributing factor. A lack of feedback, unrealistic expectations, or toxic environments can fuel imposter syndrome. When organizations prioritize results over growth, employees may feel as though they're only as good as their latest performance. Recognizing these systemic influences allows you to address the root causes and mitigate their impact on your self-perception. Let's take a break, and when we come back, we'll talk about how to overcome imposter syndrome.

SPEAKER_04: 11:30

Are you ready to break through the noise and build a career that truly reflects your potential? In How to Think Like a Leader to Build a Career brand that accelerates your success, Lavon McIver James shares the proven strategies behind her brand breakthrough system. Learn how to think like a leader, craft your unique value proposition, and tell a story that commands attention. Whether you're looking to stand out in your current role or land your next big opportunity, this book is your guide to taking control of your career and your future. Don't wait for success to find you. Create it. Available on Amazon.

SPEAKER_02: 12:30

Passion on fire. You've got stories to tell and dreams to inspire.

SPEAKER_00: 13:27

Let's break down how to reframe your self-doubt thoughts. The first step is to identify the story you're telling yourself. What's that belief running through your head? Maybe it's I'm not good enough, or they'll figure out I don't belong. Write it down. When you name it, you can tame it. The second step is to challenge that story. Ask yourself, is this really true? Is there any hard evidence to back it up? Or is it just fear talking? Let me share an example. Early in my career, I thought I had to know everything to be successful. I doubted my right to be in the room with decision makers. But when I paused and really examined that belief, I realized it wasn't rooted in reality. It was just insecurity. And once I saw that, I started showing up differently. The third step is to replace the self-doubt narrative with an empowering one. Instead of saying, I'm not ready for this role, reframe it. I have the skills and experience to grow into this role. Confidence doesn't mean knowing everything, it means trusting your ability to figure it out as you go. Here's a quote I love: your self-worth is not up for debate. Write that down. Stick it on your mirror as a daily reminder. Another effective strategy to overcome imposter syndrome is practicing gratitude and self-compassion, regularly reflecting on your accomplishments and the effort it took to achieve them. This helps to reinforce your hard work and the fact that you've earned your success. It wasn't given to you. This kind of reflection reshapes your mindset and builds confidence. This mindset shift fosters resilience and helps you move forward with confidence, even in challenging situations. Regaining your confidence involves practical steps that reinforce your sense of self-worth. Start by keeping a win journal where you record daily or weekly accomplishments, no matter how small. Over time, this tangible record of your achievements can serve as a powerful reminder of your capabilities. Seeking feedback is another valuable tool. Constructive feedback from trusted colleagues or mentors can validate your strengths and provide insights for growth. I encourage you to build a personal board of advisors, a group of supporters who encourage and challenge you and offer perspective and guidance. Effective communication is also a key to overcoming imposter syndrome. Practice advocating for your ideas and contributions, even if it feels uncomfortable at first. Use assertive but respectful language to articulate your value. For instance, instead of saying, I think this might work, say based on my experience, I recommend this approach. Learning to accept and leverage constructive criticism is equally important. View feedback as an opportunity to improve rather than a reflection of your worth. This mindset shift not only strengthens your confidence, but also fosters collaboration and trust in professional relationships. A strong support system can make a significant difference in combating imposter syndrome. Surround yourself with mentors, peers, and colleagues who uplift and inspire you. Seek out professional communities or networks where you can share experiences and learn from others facing similar challenges. It's also essential to identify and minimize toxic influences. If certain relationships or workplace dynamics contribute to your self-doubt, consider setting boundaries or seeking alternative opportunities. A positive and supportive environment nurtures growth and empowers you to reach your full potential. It likely took years for you to succumb to imposter syndrome. Breaking free won't happen overnight. Building and maintaining confidence is an ongoing process, so you have to set incremental goals that challenge you but that are achievable and celebrate each milestone along the way. This approach reinforces your belief in your abilities and creates a sense of momentum.

SPEAKER_04: 17:31

Are you ready to break through the noise and build a career that truly reflects your potential? In How to Think Like a Leader to Build a Career brand that accelerates your success, Lavon McIver James shares the proven strategies behind her brand breakthrough system. Learn how to think like a leader, craft your unique value proposition, and tell a story that commands attention. Whether you're looking to stand out in your current role or land your next big opportunity, this book is your guide to taking control of your career and your future. Don't wait for success to find you. Create it. Get your copy of How to Think Like a Leader to Build a Career Brand that Accelerates Your Success Today and start building the brand and life you deserve. Available on Amazon.

SPEAKER_03: 18:18

In a world where first impressions are made in the blink of an eye, your resume is more than just a piece of paper. It's your story, your brand, your future. Imagine a resume that doesn't just list your experiences, but brings them to life. A resume that doesn't whisper but shouts your potential from the rooftops. Get a Better Job invites you to the visual resume evolution, a movement where your career story unfolds with color, design, and undeniable passion. You have the power to redefine the standard, to turn the tide in your favor. With Get a Better Job, every line, every graphic, every bold choice marks a step towards your destiny. Don't wait. Elevate your career path today. With Get a Better Job, be seen, be memorable, and yes, get hired. Your next chapter starts here, and it's nothing short of extraordinary.

SPEAKER_00: 19:17

To learn more about Get a Better Job career branding, visit getabetterjob.org. I am always inspired by success stories, so hearing about others who have overcome imposter syndrome can be incredibly inspiring. Think about Cheryl Sandberg, who candidly admitted to experiencing imposter syndrome despite her success as COO of Facebook. By confronting her self-doubt and focusing on her accomplishments, she was able to thrive and empower others to do the same. What about Viola Davis, an award-winning actress who has spoken openly about feeling like an imposter early in her career? Through self-reflection and embracing her unique talents, she transformed her narrative and became a celebrated figure in her field. These stories illustrate that imposter syndrome is not a permanent state and can be overcome with the right mindset and tools. Imposter syndrome may feel like an insurmountable barrier, but it doesn't define you or your abilities. By recognizing its signs, understanding its roots, and applying practical strategies, you can regain your confidence and thrive in professional spaces. Remember, your achievements are not accidents or illusions. They are the result of your hard work, skills, and determination. Take ownership of your narrative and don't let imposter syndrome dictate your career path. You are capable, deserving, and in control of your success. Start today by taking one small step, whether it's reflecting on your achievements, seeking feedback, or reframing self-doubt. Each step brings you closer to a future where confidence, not self-doubt, drives your career. Here's the bottom line. Self-doubt is just a story, and you have the power to rewrite it. Imagine where you'd be if you stopped letting self-doubt dictate your decisions. Who could you become? What impact could you make? So when you walk into that meeting, you're not going in as someone who's trying to measure up. You're walking in as the authority, as someone who's got value to bring to the table. They need to hear what you have to say. You're not asking for permission to show up, you're owning your space. Mid-career isn't the time to shrink back. This is the time to step up. You don't need to be perfect, you just need to be present. You've got this. Why? Because you've already faced bigger fears and you've come out stronger every single time. Now say this with me. I am enough. I am prepared. I am capable. I am ready. Take a deep breath. Feel that power inside you. That's yours. Own it. Let it guide you, let it lift you, and let it remind you that you are exactly where you're supposed to be. Think about everything you've already done to get to this point. Remember that project you nailed, the relationships you've built, the challenges you've faced and overcome. That's proof right there. Proof that you're not just capable, you're unstoppable. This is your time. You've worked for this, you've prepared for this, and you've earned this. You hear me? You didn't stumble into the room by accident. No one handed an opportunity to you out of pity or luck. Today I challenge you to take five minutes and write down one negative belief that's been holding you back. Then challenge it. Replace it with something empowering. That's the first step to building unshakable confidence.

SPEAKER_03: 22:43

In a world where first impressions are made in the blink of an eye, your resume is more than just a piece of paper. It's your story, your brand, your future. Imagine a resume that doesn't just list your experiences, but brings them to life. A resume that doesn't whisper, but shouts your potential from the rooftops. Get a Better Job invites you to the visual resume evolution, a movement where your career story unfolds with color, design, and undeniable passion. You have the power to redefine the standard, to turn the tide in your favor. With Get a Better Job, every line, every graphic, every bold choice marks a step towards your destiny. Don't wait. Elevate your career path today. With Get a Better Job, be seen, be memorable, and yes, get hired. Your next chapter starts here, and it's nothing short of extraordinary.

SPEAKER_00: 23:42

Thank you for joining me today. Remember, you're here because you're ready to grow, and that's an incredible first step. Until next time, dream big, take bold action, and own your success because the best is yet to come.