Everyone has an opinion about Imposter Syndrome, and so does the internet.
As someone who once fell victim to these myths, I’m here to debunk them.
Yes, a good part of my overcoming Imposter Syndrome came from doing the work of coaching. With each session, and with some mentorship and reflection, I got better and better. Meaning, I didn’t leave sessions feeling like a jiggling bowl of Jello.
Rather, I left feeling that I helped my client. And isn’t that the point?
But it also took unearthing some of the deeper truths that lie beneath our self-doubts and fears.
I call that the “inner game” of coaching.
In this blog, I want to explore the most common myths about Imposter Syndrome and reveal the facts as I know them so you can move forward with confidence and clarity.
Myth 1: Only Inexperienced People Feel Like Impostors
To start with, one of the most common myths I’ve heard is that imposter syndrome only affects those new to their field or lacking in experience.
The truth…
Imposter syndrome does not discriminate based on experience.
Seasoned professionals, highly successful individuals, and even renowned experts often feel like they’re not deserving of their accomplishments or that they’ll be exposed as a “fraud.”
It’s a universal phenomenon that reflects our internalized fears and insecurities, not our actual competence or success.
Let me say that another way.
“Just because you feel like an imposter, doesn’t mean you are an imposter.”
Here’s another way to look at it.
When you feel like an imposter, what is actually happening is that you know the truth about what it takes to do the thing you are doing.
In other words, you know that you struggle sometimes to understand what to say next to a client. Or you are aware of that moment when you think in the middle of a session, “I don’t know what I am doing!.”
Hah. You know, right?
I still get those moments. Although less and less.
But still, after twenty-five years of lots and lots of client sessions, I can still get that sinking feeling in my gut that makes me feel like I am an imposter.
But remember, just because I feel it doesn’t mean I am it.
Everyone who does work that is as creative as it is skills-based has moments of self-doubt.
It’s the unpredictable nature of the art of coaching. Frankly, the art of anything.
Making friends with these self-doubts and moments of sheer terror is your best strategy here.
And repeat this affirmation: “Just because I feel like an Imposter, does not mean I am one. I am an artist, creating my masterpiece. It’s hard work, it’s unpredictable and I love it.”
Myth 2: Imposter Syndrome Is a Sign of Weakness
Another widely-believed myth that needs debunking is that feeling like an imposter signifies a lack of strength, capability, or resilience.
The truth…
Here’s what I know for sure: Imposter syndrome is not a reflection of weakness but rather a common response to stepping into unfamiliar territory or achieving at high levels.
It often accompanies high achievers and deeply empathetic individuals who are committed to their growth and the impact they wish to make. Recognizing and addressing these feelings can actually be a sign of strength and self-awareness.
Every coaching session is a black hole. There is nothing predictable about it. Right?
And humans are naturally threatened by the unknown. It’s just part of our brain wiring.
So contrary to imposter syndrome being a sign of weakness, it is in fact a sign of intelligence!
Yes. The black hole of a session feels scary at first until you face it enough times that what you once interpreted as fear is actually excitement; the excitement of the unknown. There are no maps here.
Where you end up will be a surprise to you and your client both.
This is part of why I love coaching so much. We do this because we don’t want a laid back 9-5 predictable job.
We do this because we want to create magic. And that only happens when there is no roadmap, no predictable structures, just sheer courage to leap.
And so, expect to feel weak in the knees. That means you’re doing something right!
Myth 3: If You Just Work Harder, Imposter Syndrome Will Go Away
A persistent myth is that imposter syndrome can be simply overcome by working harder and proving your worth through sheer effort and success.
The truth…
The reality is, imposter syndrome is not directly linked to your work ethic or achievements.
No matter how much you accomplish, without addressing the underlying feelings of inadequacy and learning to value your own expertise, those feelings of being an imposter may persist.
It’s essential to focus on internal validation and understanding that your worth is not solely tied to your successes or failures.
True progress comes from acknowledging your feelings and working through them, not just piling on more achievements in hopes they’ll disappear.
So be sure to take the time to stop and acknowledge your wins more than your losses.
Once again, this is brain science. We always notice the threats, the things we did wrong, the ways we failed.
And we forget all the ways we achieved, and the things that went well and what we feel good about.
Also, your biggest accomplishment, bare none, is your ability to show up with a heart open and focused on being of service to your client.
Yes, it’s always good to keep working on your skills. I believe fully in coaching mentorship.
But your greatest tool in your coaching tool kit is your ability to see your client as fully expressing their talents, as already successful and accomplished no matter what is going on.
And guess what?
You need to do that for yourself too. Your value and worth comes from the glorious spark of life that is you. You don’t have to prove your worth to anyone. And, this takes work. I understand. We did not grow up in a world where our mere existence was celebrated after about the age of one!
My favorite approach to this myth is affirmations. I listen to them daily to help reprogram my subconscious to remind me that I am happy, healthy and whole.
Wrapping Up!
It’s fascinating how easily myths can cloud our judgment.
Now that we’ve debunked these myths, you should be on a clear path towards understanding Imposter Syndrome.
It’s not about eliminating self-doubt entirely but learning to navigate it with insight and resilience.
Interested in diving deeper and ensuring you overcome your inner critic to become a successful coach? Don’t forget to check out my “Beginners Guide to Improving Your Mindset.” Packed with insights and practical strategies, this guide will help you transform your mindset and embrace your coaching journey with confidence.
