Feeling Like A Fraud? How To Overcome Imposter Syndrome And Lead With Confidence

Imposter syndrome is the internal belief that you’re not qualified for the success you’ve earned. And the worst part? You fear it’s only a matter of time before someone finds out.

That internal dialogue can be crippling—especially when you’ve just stepped into a new leadership role without significant training. Instead of stepping up with confidence, imposter syndrome keeps you from speaking up, showing up, or making the impact you were hired to make.

What Imposter Syndrome Feels & Sounds Like:

• “I don’t belong here.”

• “I have no idea what I’m doing - it’s only a matter of time before people notice.”

• “I got lucky. Did I really earn this?”

How It Shows Up In Your Behavior:

• Over-preparing or overworking to “prove” yourself

• Avoiding feedback out of fear it will confirm your worst thoughts

• Downplaying your achievements

When you step into leadership, the rules change—and so do the expectations:

Leaders Are Especially Prone to It - Here's why

• You’re no longer just responsible for your work—you’re responsible for your people.

• Your success depends on how well you guide, coach, and influence others.

• And… you don’t always have the answers. That kind of exposure feels all too real.

The stress and pressure that come with leadership transitions are exactly the conditions imposter syndrome thrives in: no clear playbook, high expectations, and very public accountability.

7 Strategies to Overcome Imposter Syndrome

Throughout four one-on-one sessions, employees work directly with a Raise the Bar coach to:

1. Name It to Tame It

Label the feeling. Saying, “This is imposter syndrome,” gives you power over it—and reduces shame.

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2. Reframe the Story

Instead of “I don’t belong,” try: “This discomfort is part of growth.”  

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3. Build Competence Through Habits

Confidence comes from action turned into experience. Build small habits and build long-term self-belief.

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4. Ask for Feedback (Not Just Validation)

Ask peers, mentors, or your manager: “What should I keep doing, do more of, or keep on doing?” Growth comes from reflection.

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5. Connect with Other Leaders

Peer groups and coaching cohorts normalize the messiness of leadership and help promote learning through shared experiences.

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6. Track Your Wins

Keep a simple “win list” of things that went well—conversations you led, problems you solved, recognition you received.

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7. Work with a Coach

A great coach won’t just build your skills—they’ll help you reframe your mindset, develop leadership habits, and guide you through the uncertainty. At Raise the Bar, we’ve helped managers across industries step into leadership with confidence and clarity.

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Just Remember: You Belong Here.

Even If It Doesn’t Feel Like It (Yet).

Imposter syndrome may make you feel like you’re not ready.  But real leadership doesn’t come from knowing everything—it comes from being willing to grow.

If you’re ready to feel more confident in the way you lead, we’re here to help.

 Explore our leadership coaching & training programs