How to Navigate Imposter Syndrome
Imposter syndrome may never fully go away, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Many people assume that overcoming imposter syndrome means never feeling self-doubt again, but in reality, those thoughts often appear when you’re growing, learning, and stepping outside your comfort zone.
In my work as a therapist, I often remind clients that imposter syndrome can actually signal something important. It shows that you care about doing things well, that you’re striving for authenticity, and that you want to show up with integrity. Those are not flaws, they’re strengths.
The problem arises when those feelings of “not being good enough” start to take over. Research shows that trying to push imposter syndrome away or ignore it rarely helps. Instead, approaching it with nonjudgmental curiosity can make a big difference.
So what does that mean in practice? It means slowing down and asking gentle, honest questions:
Are you trying to impress someone and worried about how you’ll be perceived?
Is this feeling tied to an old belief, maybe from childhood, that says you have to earn your worth?
Or are you simply navigating something new or unfamiliar, which naturally brings some self-doubt?
When you explore these questions, you start to uncover what’s truly driving your imposter thoughts. If you’re experiencing imposter syndrome because you’re trying something new, repetition and practice can help build real confidence. If it’s tied to old, unhelpful beliefs, therapy can be a powerful way to challenge and reframe them. And if your self-doubt comes from seeking approval, it may help to ask: Whose approval do I really need and what would it mean to give myself some of that validation instead?
Imposter syndrome doesn’t mean something is wrong with you. It’s part of the human experience and often a sign that you care deeply about your work or relationships. The goal isn’t to eliminate imposter syndrome completely, but to understand it, manage it, and move forward even when it shows up.
If you’re struggling with imposter syndrome and want to explore where it comes from or how to quiet that inner critic, therapy can help. Check out our SGTG therapists if you’d like a free 15-minute consultations to learn more about how therapy can support growth and confidence. You can reach out to schedule a time to connect and start your journey!
About the Author
Corinne Bloom, LSW is a social worker specializing in anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, life transitions and relationship issues. She utilizes CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Psychodynamic Therapy Read more about Corinne here.
