Why 68% of High Achievers Battle Imposter Syndrome (And What You Can Do About It)
You know that nagging voice telling you you're not good enough? Here’s where it comes from—and how to silence it for good.
Ever found yourself sitting in a meeting, palms slightly sweaty, convinced that at any moment everyone will realise you’re not actually qualified to be there? Welcome to the imposter syndrome club—where, surprisingly, the entry requirement seems to be being incredibly good at what you do.
"68% of successful professionals regularly experience feelings of fraudulence—and this number jumps to 75% for women in leadership positions."
—Dr Sarah Martinez
Understanding the Root Causes of Imposter Syndrome
False Beliefs: Imposter syndrome is characterised by a belief that someone is not as capable as others perceive them to be which leads to a huge decline in career confidence.
Perfectionism: Perfectionism drives imposter syndrome, setting unrealistic standards and leading to constant self-doubt.
Fear of Exposure: Those struggling with imposter syndrome often fear being exposed as a fraud, resulting in social anxiety and self-sabotaging behaviours.
The persistent fear of being 'found out' often takes root way back in childhood, when we're busy soaking up messages about what makes us 'worthy' of love and praise like tiny emotional sponges. Maybe you had parents who only celebrated straight A's, or success came with a snide comment such as "well, you got lucky this time!" Fast forward to today, and there you are, smashing it in your career while simultaneously convinced you've somehow stumbled into success by accident, that voice in your head questioning every achievement and attributing your wins to everything but your actual abilities.
Why Your Brain Loves Playing the Fraud Card
New research from the University of Oxford's Neuroscience Department has revealed that imposter syndrome triggers the same brain regions as genuine threat detection. When the brains of people experiencing imposter syndrome were scanned, heightened activity was found in the amygdala, activating the same response you’d see if they were facing actual danger.
Our brains are essentially running an outdated survival programme, treating the threat of professional ‘exposure’ as if it were a predator in prehistoric times. This negativity bias served us well when we were running from bears, but it has a harmful impact in modern-day life.
A Sign You’re Doing Something Right?
I believe that if we’re not growing, we’re dying. Imposter syndrome tends to peak during periods of growth, so it could actually be a sign you’re doing something right and stepping outside your comfort zone!
If you, like many of our high-achieving MindVibes clients, are struggling to overcome imposter syndrome, here are some great tried and tested hacks.
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Your 3-Step Action Plan
Reframe Your Thoughts
Or, as one of my all-time favourite TV characters, Kendall Roy (Succession), would say, “Control the narrative!” Relabelling anxiety as excitement can reduce imposter feelings. Next time you feel like a fraud, try saying out loud, “I’m excited about this challenge” instead of, “I’m nervous about being exposed.” The more you practise this, the easier it becomes to rewire your brain for success.Create a List of 30 Wins
By actively documenting your achievements—no matter how small—you create new neural pathways. Start a digital document or journal where you record positive feedback, accomplishments, and the unique qualities that make you you. Refer back to this document when ever you need a boost in your career confidence.Practise Strategic Vulnerability
When you openly discuss challenges with colleagues, it helps reduce negative feelings and subconsciously gives them permission to do the same. This feeling of connection and teamwork can be a game-changing confidence booster.
The Bottom Line
If you’re feeling like an imposter, congratulations—you’re probably doing something right.
“You’re busy doubting yourself while others are intimidated by your full potential.”
About the Contributor
Nicola McAdam
Nicola is a Certified Life Coach and Trainee Psychotherapist. After navigating her own tumultuous mental health journey, she retrained and now brings her tried-and-tested holistic MindVibes approach to corporate teams and individuals alike. Nicola finds immense joy in helping others thrive.
If you’d like to hear how MindVibes coaching can help you overcome imposter syndrome, contact us today via the form below!