Imposter Syndrome Isn’t Just in Your Head — Here’s How I’m Tackling Mine.

This is a perfect illustration of how the reality is that we are a queen but, our perception of ourselves is that we are simply a pawn.

Imposter syndrome is something I’ve struggled with for as long as I can remember — and it still catches me off guard sometimes. I’ve founded two businesses from the ground up, which took courage, hard work, and persistence. More recently, I booked a job with a large non-profit organization focused on youth training, a role I’m truly proud of. Yet, despite these accomplishments, there’s still that little voice inside me that whispers, “Do you really know what you’re doing? Are you sure you’re qualified enough?”

At one point, the doubt was so overwhelming that I almost shut down my bookkeeping business. Even with 10 years of experience under my belt, I questioned if it was enough. But here’s the truth I’ve learned: feeling uncertain doesn’t mean you’re not enough — it means you’re growing.

That feeling doesn’t simply vanish when others remind me of my worth, but those moments of encouragement light a spark that helps me keep moving forward. What truly inspired me to share this story was a conversation I had with the CEO of the non-profit I work with. She’s the leader of a large organization, and yet she openly shared that she also deals with imposter syndrome. Knowing that someone so accomplished faces the same challenge was a powerful reminder — imposter syndrome doesn’t define us, but how we respond to it can.

If you’ve ever felt this way, I want you to know: you are not alone, and you are more capable than you think.

Here’s what I’m learning to do to turn those doubts into fuel for growth and confidence:

Embrace Your Feelings With Compassion

Instead of running from those uneasy feelings, I try to welcome them with kindness. It’s okay to feel uncertain; it just means you’re stretching yourself and stepping into new territory.

Celebrate Every Win, Big or Small

Founding two businesses and working with a non-profit are incredible achievements. Whenever doubt creeps in, I remind myself of these wins—they are proof that I am moving forward, not standing still.

See Growth in the Discomfort

Feeling like you don’t have all the answers isn’t a sign of failure — it’s a sign of growth. I’m learning to lean into discomfort and view it as an exciting sign that I’m evolving.

Build Inner Confidence Alongside Support

External praise can lift you up temporarily, but true confidence comes from within. Through journaling, positive affirmations, and reflection, I’m strengthening my belief in myself every day.

Shift Your Mindset from “I Can’t” to “I’m Learning”

Changing how I talk to myself—from “I don’t belong here” to “I’m capable and growing”—

has been transformative. This simple shift helps me face challenges with curiosity and courage.

Practical Tips That Have Brightened My Path

• Write Down Your Wins: Keeping a journal of your achievements reminds you of how far you’ve come and keeps your confidence growing.

• Set Small Goals: Breaking big tasks into bite-sized steps helps you build momentum and celebrate progress.

• Practice Kind Self-Talk: Treat yourself with the same encouragement and patience you’d offer a friend.

• Connect With Supportive People: Surround yourself with those who uplift and believe in you—it makes a difference.

• Commit to Lifelong Learning: Remember, not knowing everything is part of the journey, and every day is an opportunity to grow.

If you’re feeling the weight of imposter syndrome right now, know this: you are doing amazing work just by showing up. Your journey is valuable, your skills are real, and your potential is limitless.

Take a moment today to celebrate one thing you’ve done well, reach out to someone who inspires you, or simply breathe and remind yourself—you belong here.

Keep shining your light. The world needs your unique gifts.