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If you’ve ever found yourself doubting your abilities, feeling like you’re just waiting to be “found out” as a fraud at work, you’re not alone. This feeling, commonly known as imposter syndrome, is something that many professionals experience, especially when stepping into new roles or responsibilities. The good news? It’s totally manageable. Here are three practical strategies to help you overcome imposter syndrome and reclaim your confidence at work.

1. Recognize and Reframe Your Thoughts

The first step in tackling imposter syndrome is recognizing when it’s happening. Often, these feelings come from deeply ingrained thought patterns that tell us we’re not good enough or that we don’t deserve our success. When you catch yourself thinking this way, pause and reframe those thoughts by looking for a more helpful perspective. 

For example, if you’re thinking, “I’m not qualified for this job,” try to flip the script: “I was hired because I bring unique skills and perspectives to the table.” This simple shift in thinking can help you see your reality, and what you’re capable of, in a more positive light. It’s not about lying to yourself but rather reminding yourself of the truth: you are capable, and you’ve earned your place. 

When reframing your thoughts it’s useful to remember that high quality thinking has the following three qualities:

1. It’s HELPFUL. Directs your attention to a perspective that helps you move forward.
2. It’s EMPOWERING. Focus on your strengths and solutions. Remind yourself of your resilience. 
3. It’s TRUE. Don’t lie to yourself, it never really works. Instead, look for the helpful and empowering truths of your situation. 

2. Celebrate Your Wins—Big and Small

One common trait among people with imposter syndrome is that they tend to downplay their accomplishments. They might chalk up successes to luck or external factors rather than their own skills and hard work. To combat this, make it a habit to celebrate your wins, no matter how small they seem.

Did you finish a project ahead of schedule? Celebrate that! Did you receive positive feedback from a colleague? Take a moment to appreciate it. Keeping a “win journal” where you jot down these successes can be a great way to reflect on your achievements and remind yourself of your growth over time. This practice not only boosts your confidence but also helps you build a more balanced and realistic view of your abilities.

One of our colleagues used this very technique to help her overcome imposter syndrome when she was starting her own business! 

“I kept a record of all my wins, no matter how small, month to month and looked back on them regularly. This helped me to see that those wins were growing steadily over time and made it impossible to ignore my progress.”

Annika McGivern – Adaptas Coach and Facilitator 

3. Seek Support and Share Your Feelings

One of the most powerful ways to manage imposter syndrome is to talk about it. Opening up to a trusted colleague, mentor, or friend about your feelings can be incredibly liberating. You might be surprised to find that others have felt the same way at some point in their careers, and simply knowing that you’re not alone can reduce the intensity of these feelings.

Moreover, seeking out a mentor or joining a professional group can provide you with guidance, feedback, and encouragement. These relationships can help you gain perspective on your achievements and offer a more objective view of your progress. Sometimes, we’re our own harshest critics, and having someone else to remind us of our strengths can make a world of difference.

Final Thoughts

Imposter syndrome doesn’t have to be a permanent fixture in your professional life. By recognizing and reframing your thoughts, celebrating your wins, and seeking support, you can take control of these feelings and move forward with confidence. Remember, everyone starts somewhere, and no one has all the answers. What matters is your willingness to learn, grow, and continue showing up—even when self-doubt creeps in. So, the next time you feel that familiar twinge of imposter syndrome, take a deep breath, remind yourself of your worth, and keep going. You’ve got this!