Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Turning Self-Doubt into Success

Article by Neerja Mahajan: October 15, 2024

Have you ever felt like you don’t deserve your success? That someday people will ‘find out’ you’re not as capable as they think? This feeling is called imposter syndrome, and you’re not alone. Studies show 62% of professionals experience it at some point, regardless
of their achievements.

As a Wisdom Leadership Coach and founder of Art Hill Imprints, I’ve worked with many high-achievers who, despite their success, struggled with self-doubt. I’ve also faced this in my own journey.

What is Imposter Syndrome?

Imposter syndrome is more than just doubting yourself—it’s the fear that you’re not as competent as others perceive, and that it’s only a matter of time before they find out. These feelings often stem from internal pressure to succeed, comparison to others, or fear of failure. In today’s competitive world, seeing others’ successes on social media can intensify this sense of
inadequacy.

When I suffered from Imposter Syndrome

I’ll never forget a major website project that came my way early in my career. Despite being excited, doubt quickly set in. “How can we handle this with limited experience” I almost declined the offer out of fear of failure. But I took a moment to pause, practicing what I now call “Sitting With Self” (SWS)—a few minutes of deep breathing. This gave me the clarity to move forward. We completed
the project successfully, opening new doors for us in digital marketing.

5 Mindset Shifts to Overcome Imposter Syndrome

1. Mindfullness exercise-SWS
   Whenever doubt creeps in, practice SWS – sitting with self. A simple mindfullness exercise that will help you tremendously to analyse the situation. Take a few minutes to sit quietly, breathe deeply for two minutes or more. It will calm your mind and help you gain clarity, and refocus on your strengths.
2. Acknowledge Your Feelings
   Recognize that feeling inadequate is normal. No one is perfect, and you’ve earned your place. Don’t let self-doubt diminish your achievements.
3. Turn Doubt into Growth
   Instead of letting self-doubt paralyze you, use it to identify areas for improvement and growth. Every challenge is an opportunity.
4. Accept Failure as stepping stones
   Failure is part of the journey. Use it as a learning experience, not a reason to doubt your worth.
5. Accept Compliments
   When someone praises you for your achievements, just stop downplaying. Accept with grace and owe gratitude to almighty for the achievement. You have earned it. There is no fluke.

Believe me. Imposter Syndrome is a blessing in disguise

View self-doubt as an opportunity to understand where you are lacking, and work on it to harness new skills. Every challenge is a chance to grow, and every success is a reminder of your inner strength.

So, the next time you feel like an imposter, take a deep breath, reflect on your journey, and trust in your abilities. You’re exactly where you’re meant to be.

About Writer: Neerja Mahajan is a Wisdom Leadership and Happiness Coach, Founder & CEO of Art Hill
Imprints, and author of the upcoming book Smiling Your Way to Happiness. With 25 years of
experience in entrepreneuship and 5 years in leadership coaching, she helps professionals unlock
their leadership potential through emotional intelligence, mindfulness, and practical wisdom.
Neerja is also an IICA-certified independent director. Connect with her@
leadership@@neerjamahajan.com