Imposter syndrome is often seen as a weakness, something to overcome before you truly belong. But in reality, feeling imposter syndrome is a sign that you’re stepping outside your comfort zone and growing into something bigger.
When you step into bigger opportunities, whether it’s pitching to a venue, negotiating a business deal, or positioning yourself as an expert, there’s a moment when you might feel like you’re talking slightly above your level. You’re not pretending; you’re stepping into the role you’re growing into. This isn’t about faking it; it's about embracing the learning curve with confidence while continuously improving your skills. Confidence is not the same as arrogance; true confidence comes from acknowledging what you know while being open to learning what you don’t. That’s not fraud. That’s progress.
However, there’s a difference between imposter syndrome and actually being an imposter. Speaking confidently about your skills and potential is a natural part of growth, but fabricating experience or credentials is deception. Growth happens when you take on challenges, learn as you go, and prove your capability over time, not by misleading others. The distinction is honesty. Becoming is not the same as pretending.
On the flip side, imposter syndrome isn’t always an accurate reflection of reality. External factors like systemic barriers, lack of access to opportunities, or workplace biases can also contribute to feelings of inadequacy, making it even more important to distinguish between self-doubt and real obstacles. Sometimes, people are fully capable and qualified but still doubt themselves. Many talented individuals second-guess their abilities, even when they’ve put in the work and have the experience to back it up. Just because you feel like an imposter doesn’t mean you actually are one. It’s important to take a step back and recognize when your self-doubt is unfounded. Trust in the work you’ve done, the skills you’ve built, and the validation you’ve received along the way. More often than not, you’re more ready than you think. If you find yourself struggling with imposter syndrome, consider practical steps to ground yourself: keep a record of your achievements, seek mentorship, challenge negative self-talk, and remind yourself of the progress you've made.
At the same time, imposter syndrome can also be a sign that you care. Think of a parent who deeply loves their child, works hard to nurture them, yet still worries they aren’t doing a good enough job. That very concern is what makes them great. The ones who constantly strive to improve are often the ones who care the most. Imposter syndrome is part of this cycle; it signals that you are pushing yourself, questioning, learning, and refining your craft. It means you want to do better, and that desire leads to real growth.
We tend to think we need to “feel ready” before taking the next step, but readiness isn’t a feeling; it’s a process. You grow into the role by doing the work, taking the risks, and learning from mistakes. When imposter syndrome creeps in, it’s not proof that you don’t belong; it’s proof that you’re stepping outside your comfort zone, and that’s where real progress happens.
Every artist, entrepreneur, and musician who has ever leveled up has faced this challenge in some form. The key is to acknowledge when self-doubt is helping you grow versus when it’s holding you back. Reframing that doubt is crucial. Instead of seeing doubt as a sign you’re unqualified, recognize it as proof you’re moving forward. Mistakes and failures aren’t evidence that you don’t belong; they’re part of how you become the person who does. And when you look back, you’ll realize you’re no longer talking above your level; you’ve arrived.
And then? You push forward again.
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