Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Lead with Confidence When Self-Doubt Creeps In

Have you ever walked into a meeting, a presentation, or a leadership room and thought:

“I don’t belong here.”

Being an executive coach, I'm sure most people think I have no problem stepping in front of a room and sharing my work place experiences. The fact is, I struggled for a long time to believe that anyone cared about what I thought. Sometimes I still do.

That voice — the one that whispers "why do you think you are so special?“ "you think you know more than anyone else in this room?" or “they’re going to find out you don’t know enough” — that’s imposter syndrome. And if you’re a woman in leadership, especially navigating midlife, you’re more likely to hear it loud and often.

Here’s the truth no one tells you:

Imposter syndrome doesn’t disappear when you hit a title, a salary, or a stage. It evolves and fortunately it can also be unlearned.

Here’s how to quiet imposter syndrome and reclaim your confidence:

1. Reframe the Thought

Your brain is wired to protect you — but it can’t always distinguish fear from opportunity. When that voice pops up, ask:

“What if this doubt is just discomfort with growth?”

Reframing “I’m not ready” to “I’m learning something new” is a powerful confidence reset.

2. Create a 60-Second Ritual

Before any high-stakes moment (a presentation, tough conversation, or sales pitch), I recommend a short practice:

• Breathe deeply (3 times)
• Say one affirmation (out loud): “I belong in this room.”
• Ground your body: Feet on the floor, chin up, heart open

Confidence isn’t something you find — it’s something you practice.

3. Celebrate Your Wins — Weekly

Keep a “confidence file” on your phone or laptop. Every Friday, write down 3 things you did well that week — no matter how small.

You can’t fight imposter syndrome if you don’t acknowledge your value.

💬 Let’s Talk:

Imposter syndrome thrives in silence. Let’s break that cycle — together.

👇 In the comments, tell me:

What’s one area of your life or work where you’ve felt like a fraud — and how did you move through it? Or… are you still working on it?

Let’s normalize this conversation and lift each other up.

You are not alone. You are not unqualified. You are more than enough!

And if you want to build your confidence muscle with other brilliant women leaders, I invite you to explore The Collective — our group coaching experience for high-performing women who are ready to lead differently.

#LeadWithKindness #WomenInLeadership #ImposterSyndrome #MidlifeLeadership #ConfidenceCoach #FemaleFounders #ExecutiveCoaching #AuthenticLeadership #BurnoutRecovery #WomenInBusiness