Imposter Syndrome: When Your Brain is a Troll and How to Shut It Up

Imposter Syndrome: Who Let Me in Here?!

Ever walked into a room and thought, Who approved this?—except the room is your own life, and you're convinced someone’s about to tap you on the shoulder and say, “Sorry, mistake. You need to leave.” Welcome to imposter syndrome, my friend. It’s like your brain running a scam on itself.

I remember the first time I ran a workshop. I was prepped, knew my stuff, and even had snacks (because, priorities people love snacks). But the whole time, a little voice whispered, “They’re going to realise you have no idea what you’re doing.” Meanwhile, the participants were nodding, taking notes, and one even said, “This is life-changing.” Did I take the win? Nope. I thought, “I probably just got lucky.”

Sound familiar?

Studies show that around 70% of people experience imposter syndrome at some point. Even the actual experts feel like frauds. Maya Angelou, Albert Einstein—both admitted they feared being "found out." But here’s the trick—imposter syndrome thrives on secrecy. If we keep quiet, it grows.

Three Tips to Kick Imposter Syndrome to the Curb

1. Talk About It – Dr. Valerie Young, an expert on imposter syndrome (Valerie Young - Impostor Syndrome Institute), says that speaking up helps dismantle the illusion. Tell a friend, a mentor, or even your dog (they never judges).

   Chances are, they’ve felt the same way when they've had that barking session at the neighbour.

2. Keep a ‘Wins List’ – Write down every compliment, success, and moment you nailed it. When imposter syndrome strikes, read it. Facts over feelings!

3. Reframe the Fear – That feeling of not knowing enough? It’s a sign of growth, not failure. No one knows everything—not even Google.

So next time your brain tries to tell you you’re a fraud, call it out. You are qualified. You do deserve to be here. And if all else fails—remember, even the most confident people are probably just faking it better.

TTFN

Heidi

#livinglifewell