Do you ever feel like your achievements are just luck? Like you don’t truly deserve the success you’ve worked so hard for? That one day, someone will find out you’re not as competent as they think? If so, you’re not alone. This is imposter syndrome, and it’s a silent struggle for many ambitious women, no matter how qualified or accomplished they are.

The good news? You don’t have to let it hold you back. Imposter syndrome is not a reflection of your abilities; it’s a mindset you can shift. Here’s how to reclaim your confidence and own your success.

Imposter Syndrome: The Numbers Don’t Lie

Imposter syndrome isn’t just a personal feeling—it’s a widespread phenomenon. Research from the International Journal of Behavioral Science suggests that an estimated 70% of people experience imposter syndrome at some point in their careers. For women, particularly those in male-dominated industries, the effects can be even more pronounced. A KPMG study found that 75% of female executives have struggled with imposter syndrome at some stage. These statistics highlight just how pervasive this issue is, reinforcing the fact that you are not alone.

Recognise It for What It Is

Imposter syndrome thrives in silence. The first step in overcoming it is recognising when it’s happening. That inner voice that whispers “I don’t belong here,” or “I just got lucky,” or “I’m not as smart as they think I am”—that’s not your truth. It’s a distorted perception rooted in perfectionism, comparison, and fear.

Becoming aware of these thoughts allows you to challenge them. They’re not facts—they’re old stories your brain repeats. And stories can be rewritten.

Reframe Your Inner Narrative

The way you speak to yourself matters. Instead of dismissing your success as luck, begin affirming the real reasons you’ve made it this far—your work ethic, your expertise, your leadership. A small shift in language creates a powerful shift in identity.

Tell yourself: “I’ve earned my place.” Remind yourself: “I bring value, not because I’m perfect, but because I’m prepared, capable, and growing.” Confidence isn’t about pretending to know everything. It’s about trusting that you can figure things out.

Own Your Achievements

Many women are quick to credit the team, the timing, or the opportunity—but rarely themselves. While collaboration is essential, it doesn’t cancel out your personal contributions. Success leaves clues. Start collecting them.

Keep a “success journal” where you document accomplishments, kind words from colleagues, milestones met, and fears you’ve faced down. Revisit it often. Let it be the proof you need when your inner critic speaks up.

And when someone compliments your work? Resist the urge to downplay it. Practice saying “Thank you, I’m proud of how it turned out.” Owning your success doesn’t make you arrogant—it makes you honest.

Stop Comparing Yourself to Others

It’s easy to feel like an imposter when you’re constantly measuring yourself against someone else’s curated highlight reel. Social media and workplace dynamics amplify this. But comparison kills clarity.

Shift the focus back to you. What growth have you experienced in the last year? What challenges have you navigated? What strengths have you developed? Your journey is valid—whether or not it looks like anyone else’s.

Take regular breaks from spaces that trigger comparison. Replace that time with something that nourishes your mindset: journaling, podcasts, a walk in nature. Build internal validation instead of relying on external applause.

Reconnect with Your Purpose

When you’re rooted in purpose, imposter syndrome loses its grip. Why do you do what you do? What change are you here to lead, contribute to, or create? Anchoring yourself in a sense of mission builds resilience and helps you show up—even when doubt lingers.

Purpose gives you permission to be imperfect. Because it’s not about you—it’s about the impact you’re making. Focus on service, and the fear of judgement starts to fade.

Use Mindfulness to Quiet the Inner Critic

Mindfulness isn’t just about meditation—it’s about noticing your thoughts and deciding which ones deserve your attention. When imposter syndrome strikes, slow down. Take a breath. Ask yourself: Is this thought helping me or holding me back?

Practices like daily journaling, grounding exercises, or even short breathing breaks before meetings can help you re-centre. Over time, you build awareness—and awareness is the gateway to change.

Self-compassion is also key. Speak to yourself the way you would support a friend. Harsh self-talk may feel productive, but it erodes your confidence over time. Kindness, not criticism, builds courage.

Take Action Before You Feel Ready

Confidence doesn’t precede action—it follows it. Don’t wait to feel fearless before making the move. Apply for the leadership role. Raise your hand in the meeting. Share the idea you’ve been sitting on.

Start small if needed. Set a goal to speak up once in every team call. Volunteer for a stretch assignment. Have that career conversation you’ve been avoiding. Each time you take action, you chip away at the belief that you don’t belong.

Imposter syndrome feeds on inaction. Action is what disrupts the cycle.

Build a Circle That Reflects Your Value

Imposter syndrome thrives in isolation. But when you share your experiences, you realise how common they are. Surround yourself with mentors, coaches, and peers who see your strengths even when you forget them.

Seek out spaces where women champion each other—professional networks, mastermind groups, or leadership programmes. When you’re around people who believe in you, you begin to believe in yourself more deeply.

Even the most successful women have faced self-doubt. The difference? They didn’t face it alone.

Grow Into the Identity You Want to Claim

You don’t overcome imposter syndrome by becoming someone else. You overcome it by growing into the woman you already are, without all the doubt, minimising, and second-guessing.

Visualise her—the confident, grounded, impactful version of you. How does she walk into a room? What does she say yes to? What does she no longer tolerate?

Start acting like her. Day by day. Thought by thought. Decision by decision. You don’t have to feel like her yet. You just have to move in her direction.

The Bottom Line

Imposter syndrome isn’t a sign that you’re inadequate. It’s a sign that you’re expanding. You’re doing something bold, new, or brave—and your inner critic is trying to keep you safe. But safe isn’t where you grow. And it’s certainly not where you thrive.

You are not a fraud. You are a force.

And because imposter syndrome is such a persistent challenge for ambitious women, I’ve developed a dedicated online course—Empower & Excel—designed to help you eliminate self-doubt at its root and step fully into your potential. If you’re ready to break free from imposter syndrome once and for all, learn more about Empower & Excel .

Your next level doesn’t need more perfection. It needs more you. Show up. Speak up. Own it.