How I Battle Imposter Syndrome

Imposter syndrome didn’t hit me until I hired my first sales rep.

Then, the questions came flooding in, like the chaos of a sinking ship's engine room.

“Who am I to tell them what to do? Do I even know what I’m doing? Wait, I’ve studied this for years. Okay, then what class stands out? What lesson stuck with me? Crap.”

Before I knew it, I was drowning in my own doubt, gasping for air.

At that moment, I had one choice: find a way out.

And escape I did—because doubt is fatal.

But here’s the thing: my first reaction wasn’t the right one.

I tried to validate my doubts, convincing myself that admitting incompetence was better than being delusional.
I shifted focus to areas where I could play small, reasoning that less impact meant less responsibility.
I irrationally lowered the pressure on myself, hoping it would make me feel better.

Unsurprisingly, the imposter syndrome only tightened its grip. It consumed my every thought.

Here’s what I’ve learned to do instead.

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome by Mastering Your Knowledge

Step 1: Recognize the Source of Your Anxiety

Identify the Specific “Thing”: Start by pinpointing exactly what makes you feel unworthy or anxious. Whether it’s a particular skill, subject, or task, being specific is crucial.

Ask Yourself Honest Questions: Reflect on whether you truly lack knowledge or if it’s just a feeling. Sometimes, we know more than we think.

Step 2: Validate Your Knowledge

Assess What You Already Know: Before diving into study mode, take stock of your existing knowledge. Write down everything you know about the topic. This will give you a clearer picture of where you stand.

Challenge Yourself: Once you’ve assessed your knowledge, identify gaps. Is there a specific area that feels weak? This is where you’ll focus your efforts.

Step 3: Deepen Your Understanding

Study and Research: Dive deep into the subject. Read books, take courses, and seek out experts who can help you. The goal is to know the “thing” so thoroughly that it becomes second nature.

Practice Regularly: Put your knowledge to the test through practical application. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll become.

Step 4: Embrace Discomfort

Push Through the Hard Work: Understand that growth requires effort and a willingness to be uncomfortable. It’s in these moments of challenge that you’ll find real progress.

Stay Consistent: Commit to regular study and practice sessions. Consistency is key to building mastery and shutting out imposter syndrome.

Step 5: Observe the Results

Track Your Progress: Keep a journal of your progress. Note how your confidence grows as your knowledge deepens. Seeing tangible results will reinforce your sense of worth.

Acknowledge Your Achievements: Celebrate the small victories along the way. Every step forward is a step away from imposter syndrome.

Step 6: Build True Confidence

Understand the Power of Mastery: As you gain expertise, imposter syndrome will have less room to exist. Confidence comes from truly knowing your stuff.

Leverage Your Knowledge: Use your newfound expertise to tackle bigger challenges. As you do, you’ll see that the chain of self-doubt weakens and eventually breaks.

Final Thought: Imposter Syndrome Is Learned, So It Can Be Unlearned

Remember, imposter syndrome isn’t an inherent part of you. It’s something you’ve learned, and by mastering the areas that trigger it, you can unlearn it. The more you know, the less room there is for doubt.