Let me take you back to a long-haul flight from Singapore to the U.S. years ago. Somewhere over the Pacific, with hours of silence and the gentle hum of the engines, I found myself pouring out all my self-doubts to a friend. This friend, a seasoned HR executive, listened quietly as I went on about the lingering feeling that I wasn’t quite measuring up—despite what my career achievements suggested on paper. Finally, she looked at me with a knowing smile and said, “Stephanie, that’s imposter syndrome.” Just like that, she gave a name to the shadow that had been holding me back for years. It was a moment of revelation, and it became the turning point that would eventually lead me to dedicate myself to helping others break free from this feeling.
Now, let’s clear something up: I don’t believe imposter syndrome is a superpower, nor does it need to be reframed as one. Yes, imposter feelings are common—over 70% of us will feel this way at some point in our lives. However, suggesting that the discomfort and self-doubt are “good” or “powerful” in themselves is a misnomer. We can’t pretend it’s empowering to feel like a fraud. Instead, what’s truly powerful is learning to harness those feelings, to recognise them for what they are—a pattern, a habit—and to shift our mindset so they don’t keep us from growth. The goal isn’t to romanticise self-doubt but to transform it into self-trust.
Identifying the Imposter Within: The Perfectionist and Superhuman in Action
During my years as an executive, I felt this subtle pull of self-doubt deeply, and I see it in so many of my clients. For many, imposter syndrome shows up in five distinct ways: The Perfectionist, The Expert, The Soloist, The Natural Genius and The Superhuman.
Amongst my client base, the Perfectionist and the Superhuman types seem to be more common. As Dr. Valerie Young’s framework explains, the Perfectionist imposter places almost unbearable pressure on themselves to ensure every detail is flawless. One typo, a minor oversight in a presentation, or a lukewarm comment from a colleague, and suddenly it’s as if all their achievements have been erased. Then there’s the Superhuman, who’s convinced they need to excel in all roles—work, family, community, you name it—without breaking a sweat. Spoiler alert: this rarely ends well.
As someone who has also been in those shoes, I know what it’s like to feel that constant pull. Back in my corporate days, I was “tapped on the shoulder” for one high-level role after another, yet I kept attributing my achievements to luck, timing, or charm. Even when feedback was glowing, I convinced myself it was just a fluke, some cosmic accident of timing. And when it came to performance reviews? Let’s just say I was always my own harshest critic.
The Pitfalls of “Not Enough” Thinking
When I speak to clients about imposter feelings, there’s often a resounding similarity in their stories. Many of them are the kind of people who, on the outside, seem to have it all together. They’re leaders, change-makers, the go-to people when the stakes are high. But inside? There’s this nagging voice whispering, “You’re not enough.” Not smart enough, not prepared enough, not experienced enough—the list goes on. If you recognise that feeling, know that you’re far from alone. Feeling this way doesn’t make you weak; it makes you human.
The challenge with the Perfectionists and Superhumans of the world is that they often don’t talk about these feelings. Why? Because doing so might expose them. They may fear that by admitting self-doubt, they’re admitting to a flaw in their character or professionalism. And so, the cycle continues—one where these brilliant, capable individuals keep aiming for standards that no one, not even them, could possibly reach. But what if that same drive could be transformed into something powerful, productive, and even joyful?
Breaking Free with a “Humble Realist™” Mindset
Imposter syndrome, in essence, is rooted in a distortion of competence—a belief that somehow, you’re “fooling” others about your capabilities or that your successes are the product of random chance rather than your own efforts and talents. But what if we could reshape that perspective? That’s where the concept of a “Humble Realist™” comes into play. A Humble Realist™ doesn’t deny their accomplishments or sell themselves short. Instead, they recognise that they have room to grow while acknowledging their worth. They don’t strive for perfection or attempt to be superhuman; they’re simply committed to being their best selves.
For instance, rather than fixating on being perfect, you can focus on what I call “doing the best you can with what you have.” When you shift to this mindset, you’re giving yourself permission to be imperfect while still fully engaged in the pursuit of growth. It’s liberating, to say the least, and it opens the door to realistic self-assessment—a far healthier way to approach your career and life.
The Power of Reframing: Turning Imposter Syndrome into Self-Trust
Imposter syndrome isn’t something we “cure.” It’s not like a cold you can shake off after a week. Instead, it’s about learning to live with those feelings and reframing them into something constructive. When I coach clients, I help them recognise their imposter feelings for what they are: natural but manageable. This is not a pathology; it’s a human pattern. Once you acknowledge this, you’re well on your way to transforming those feelings into a source of strength rather than a burden.
Think of it this way: your imposter feelings don’t need to be barriers. Instead, they can be stepping stones. Each time you feel that pang of self-doubt, rather than retreating or holding back, ask yourself, “What would a Humble Realist™ do?” They wouldn’t downplay their strengths, nor would they strive for an impossible ideal. They’d step forward with a mindset of grounded competence, ready to give their best without needing to be flawless.
Finding Your Unique Voice: Embracing Self-Trust
One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is watching clients realise that their strengths—strengths they’d downplayed for years—are powerful assets. It’s a process of reconnecting with one’s own voice and beginning to trust that it has value. For some, this shift happens through small wins: speaking up in meetings, owning a recent accomplishment, or even just resisting the urge to minimise their contributions.
It’s essential to remember that self-trust isn’t an overnight achievement. It’s like a muscle that requires regular exercise. Every time you choose to own your skills and show up authentically, you’re building that muscle, strengthening it bit by bit. When you’re consistent, you’ll find that the old habit of self-doubt weakens, and a new habit—self-trust—starts to take its place.
Why Imposter Syndrome Coaching Matters
My journey from self-doubt to self-trust wasn’t linear, and it didn’t happen without guidance. This is why I’m so passionate about Imposter Syndrome Informed Coaching. So many of my clients have experienced that relentless drive to prove themselves, only to find that the goalposts keep shifting. They chase after some elusive ideal of “enoughness” that never quite seems to be within reach. But with the right tools and perspective shifts, they start seeing the value in their skills, experience, and wisdom.
The work I do as an Imposter Syndrome Informed Coach is rooted in helping clients identify the triggers of their imposter feelings, recognise their patterns, and shift to a mindset where self-trust can thrive. Dr. Valerie Young’s framework has been an invaluable guide in this journey, providing tools to understand the specific ways imposter syndrome can manifest and equipping clients to tackle it head-on. By the time we’re through, my goal is that they keep going regardless and start moving forward with confidence and joy.
Moving from “Just Getting By” to Fully Engaged Living
So, where does this leave us? I believe that transforming imposter syndrome isn’t about becoming someone different; it’s about uncovering and embracing who you already are. When you strip away the layers and finally see yourself clearly, you’ll realise that you’re not an “imposter” after all. You’re simply human—beautifully, imperfectly human—on a journey to uncover your potential.
In the end, my hope for anyone dealing with imposter feelings is this: that you’ll stop waiting to feel “ready” and start living fully, even if it means stepping out before you’re entirely sure of yourself. Self-trust, after all, isn’t about eliminating fear. It’s about acknowledging that you have what it takes to navigate it. Every step you take in the direction of your growth is a step toward owning your life, your career, and ultimately, your joy.
After all, if you don’t give yourself permission to shine, who will?
Remember, you can unleash your unique version of success. You have the power to Ignite Your SPARK and live the life you were meant for! Are you ready to take that step? If so, let’s get started!
If this has been useful for you I’d love you to share it with your friends or anyone else you think may find it useful.
Your Coach
Stephanie
Ready to Ignite Your SPARK?
As a Certified High Performance and Imposter Syndrome Informed Coach, I’m here to support you on this transformative journey. Whether it’s in your career, health, or relationships, my coaching programs are designed to help you achieve heightened and sustained levels of performance and potential. Are you ready to embrace these inner shifts then let’s embark on this journey together!
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