Imposter Syndrome is Lying to You
Imposter Syndrome thrives in isolation and silence. It shrinks when you speak up, when you get support, and when you choose self-trust over self-doubt.
Imposter
Syndrome Is Lying to You—Here’s How to Shut It Up
By Pamela Heath, The YES Coach™
Let’s talk about something that creeps into even the most
accomplished minds and whispers nonsense in your ear: Imposter Syndrome.
It’s that nagging feeling that says, “You don’t belong here. You’re not
really that good. Any minute now, someone’s going to find out you’re a fraud.”
First of all, let me say this: that voice is a damn liar.
Imposter Syndrome is the persistent inability to believe
your success is deserved or has been legitimately achieved through your own
efforts or skills. It convinces you that your wins are luck, your talents are
flukes, and any day now, someone will call security and escort you out of the
room you absolutely earned your place in.
And if you're a coach or leader? That internal sabotage can
hit even harder—especially when a client challenges you, triggers your
insecurities, or mirrors your own unresolved doubts.
Let me be clear:
Imposter Syndrome doesn’t mean you’re unqualified. It means you care.
You want to show up powerfully. You want to serve well. You want to live up to
the vision you have of yourself. But that desire, if not managed, can morph
into self-doubt.
So let’s get practical. Here are four truth tools to kick
Imposter Syndrome to the curb:
1.
Reframe the Narrative
When doubt whispers, “You don’t
belong here,” pause and ask yourself:
What actual proof do I have that I don’t belong?
Unless you’ve been conning your way through life like a Netflix scammer, the
answer is none. You’ve done the work. You’ve paid the dues. You’ve
earned the right to sit at the table.
2.
Add the Word “Yet”
Instead of saying “I’m not good
at this,” try:
“I’m not good at this yet.”
That one little word opens the door to growth. It says, I’m learning. I’m
growing. I’m on the path.
And baby, the path is where the magic happens.
3.
Borrow Confidence
Can’t summon your own confidence? Borrow
it.
Think about someone who loves you, respects you, or believes in your work. See
yourself through their eyes. That version of you? The one they see?
That’s the real you. Not the fearful version your inner saboteur made up.
4.
Keep a Wins List
You need a brag file. I’m serious.
Keep a running list of your accomplishments, breakthroughs, glowing feedback,
successful sessions, and lives you’ve impacted—big or small. When doubt shows up
uninvited, pull out that list and remind yourself who the hell you are.
Final Thought:
Imposter Syndrome thrives in isolation and silence. It
shrinks when you speak up, when you get support, and when you choose self-trust
over self-doubt.
So, the next time that voice tries to tell you you’re a
fraud, look it in the eye and say:
“I see you. I hear you. But I’m not letting you drive today.”
Then get back to building your empire.
You’ve got this.
And I’ve got you.
—
Pamela Heath, The YES Coach™
Helping Coaches, Creatives, and Changemakers Say YES to Their Next Level
