Posted January 28, 2025

Imposter syndrome can feel like an invisible weight, a nagging voice that quietly erodes our confidence, telling us we're not enough, not qualified, or don't belong. I’ve been experiencing this more acutely as I transition into a new phase in my career, changing positions, roles, and navigating all the elements of personal exposure (e.g., social media, therapist profiles). Even as I work to promote my workbook, which I know will offer real value to others, I find myself battling feelings of fear and self-doubt. As I have shifted into a role as a 1099 provider, I notice more uncertainty and worry about doing things the way(s) they “should” be (whatever that means!). These feelings are more common than I realized, especially when stepping into uncharted territory. However, what I’ve learned along the way is that acknowledging and validating these insecurities can be a powerful first step toward moving beyond them.

Understanding Imposter Syndrome

Imposter syndrome is that voice that tells you you’re an imposter, despite the fact that you have the qualifications, skills, and experience to be exactly where you are. For me, this manifests in thoughts like: “Who am I to have a fee-for-service model for therapy? How could I possibly promote and share my workbook, putting myself out there like that? What if people don’t like my advice, or worse, don’t like me?”

The thing is, imposter syndrome doesn’t discriminate. It affects people in all professions, from students to seasoned experts, from entrepreneurs to professionals in clinical fields. It stems from a belief that success is due to luck, timing, knowing enough, or other external factors, rather than our own hard work and skills. I’ve certainly experienced it at other phases of my career in areas like: “How can I possibly do this family therapy, I’m not even a parent yet?” Even so, I found the support to move through and continue to provide the service, focusing on what I could bring instead of what I didn’t have as I navigated providing the therapies.

My Personal Journey: From Self-Doubt to Self-Acknowledgment

As I venture into changing positions and roles, I've found myself facing imposter syndrome head-on. I’m navigating a tricky mix of excitement and uncertainty, knowing that this change is a step toward growth but also confronting fears that have followed me into this new chapter. For example, promoting my website—a resource I believe can help others reach their clinical goals—brings up the same doubts.

Despite the work I’ve put into crafting this resource, there are moments when I question whether my knowledge is enough or whether people will even find value in what I've created. Those thoughts are real, but I’ve come to realize that they don’t define my worth or my capability.

Validating the Fear: A Key Step in the Process

The first thing I’ve learned through this process is that it's crucial to validate these feelings, rather than push them aside. Imposter syndrome doesn’t disappear just because you tell yourself to stop thinking that way. Acknowledging the fear is essential because it gives you permission to feel it without letting it control you. I’ve learned to say, “Yes, I’m scared, and that’s okay,” instead of brushing those feelings aside as invalid.

The act of validation has actually been empowering, as it helps me get to the root of what’s causing the fear. In my case, the fear is often tied to the fear of failure and the desire for approval from others. It’s also tied to the belief that I have to be perfect in order to be worthy of success. But when I sit with those fears and look at them critically, I can remind myself of the truth: I have the passion for the work and I’ve gathered the knowledge, resources, and experience to support others; that’s what matters most.

Reframing My Thoughts: The Power of Self-Compassion

One of the most helpful strategies I’ve adopted is reframing my thoughts through self-compassion. When I feel that familiar wave of imposter syndrome, I pause and remind myself of the strengths I bring to the table. For example, I know that I have spent years developing the skills that are now part of my offering. I’ve spent countless hours working with clients, refining my techniques, and learning from experiences—both successes and failures.

Rather than fixating on how unworthy I might feel, I turn my focus to how much I’ve accomplished and how much I have to offer. That shift in perspective makes all the difference. It's not about perfection; it's about the courage to step forward despite the fear, knowing that my unique perspective and expertise are valuable.

Building a Strong Support System

Another key element in managing imposter syndrome is leaning on a support system. Having people who understand your journey, your doubts, and your goals can make a huge difference in overcoming feelings of inadequacy. I’ve been lucky to surround myself with mentors, colleagues, and friends who encourage me, provide constructive feedback, and remind me of my strengths.

It’s also been important for me to be transparent about my own feelings of self-doubt with these people. Often, when I voice my insecurities, they offer not only reassurance but also practical advice for moving forward. This vulnerability creates a space for growth and connection that helps me to feel less alone in my struggle.

Taking Action, Even in the Face of Fear

Ultimately, what has helped me manage imposter syndrome the most is simply taking action—small steps forward, even when the fear feels overwhelming. Whether it’s making a post, profile, or connection, I’ve learned that doing the thing I fear often provides the relief I need. The fear may not disappear, but the more I push through it, the less it has control over me.

It’s not about being perfect—it’s about offering something of value, sharing what I know, and being open to the possibility that others may find it helpful.

Final Thoughts: Embracing Growth over Perfection

Imposter syndrome doesn’t define who I am, but I’ve learned to live with it at different phases of my life and career. I seek to acknowledge it, validate it, and move forward in spite of it. As I continue to navigate these transitions, I embrace the idea that growth doesn’t happen in the absence of fear—it happens because we choose to move through it. The fear might never fully go away, but what I’ve come to realize is that it’s not the absence of fear that makes us successful; it’s the courage to act even when it’s there, allowing our passions, goals, and our steadfast mindset to be a guide.

For anyone else experiencing similar feelings of self-doubt, my advice is simple: Validate your fears, but don’t let them define you. You have everything you need within you to succeed and to help others along the way. And if you’re ever uncertain, remember that your unique journey, skills, and perspectives are exactly what the world needs.

As I continue to navigate these changes, I trust that, step by step, I will grow—both in my role and in my ability to manage the insecurities that come with it. And you can, too. If you want support from someone who sees and understands what this is like, get a hold of me for more support.