The Truth About Imposter Syndrome (And Why It Shows Up When You’re Growing)

That Voice Again… “Who do you think you are?”

Yesterday, while working my full-time job and juggling side hustles and a personal project, I found myself spiraling.

I’ve felt this before. Maybe you have too.

It’s called imposter syndrome, and it’s more common than we think—especially among ambitious women with big dreams and even bigger hearts.

What Is Imposter Syndrome?

Imposter syndrome is the persistent belief that you’re not as competent as others perceive you to be—even when you have the credentials and success to prove it.

Studies show that up to 82% of people experience imposter syndrome at some point. Ironically, the more successful someone is, the more likely they are to feel like a fraud.

5 Types of Imposter Syndrome (Dr. Valerie Young’s Model)

If you struggle with imposter syndrome, you may fall into one (or more) of these categories:

1. The Perfectionist – sets impossible standards and feels like a failure when they fall short
2. The Superwoman/Superman – pushes to work harder than everyone else to prove worth
3. The Natural Genius – believes success should come easily; struggles with effort or failure
4. The Soloist – avoids asking for help to maintain the illusion of competence
5. The Expert – feels they never know “enough” and fears being exposed

Each type comes with its own internal pressure and a fear of being “found out.”

Signs of Imposter Syndrome and Its Hidden Cost

Imposter syndrome isn’t just uncomfortable—it can impact mental health and lead to burnout. Common signs include:

• Overworking to prove yourself
• Minimizing your own achievements
• Constant self-doubt
• Fear of failure or being “exposed”
• Avoiding opportunities due to lack of confidence

It can delay progress, limit potential, and rob us of joy in our accomplishments.

My Journey With Imposter Syndrome

I wasn’t supposed to make it this far—at least not by society’s standards.

I came from a difficult beginning: placed in foster care, adopted into a home where I experienced hardship, and became a teen wife and mother.

But even then, something inside me knew I was meant for more.

Through faith, grit, and a fierce desire to heal, I became a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner—and now I’m also building my own business, writing a blog, and chasing dreams that once felt impossible.

Even now, imposter syndrome creeps in. But I’ve learned to face it head-on.

How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome: 5 Tools That Work

Here’s what helps me—and what might help you, too:

1. Name the Fear
   Saying “I feel like a fraud” out loud removes its secret power.
2. Reconnect to Your “Why”
   Remind yourself what matters and why you’re doing it.
3. Journal the Noise Away
   Tools like the BestSelf Journal help sort thoughts and build confidence.
4. Try Online Therapy
   Affordable platforms like Online-Therapy.com offer support without needing to leave home.
5. Practice Mindfulness
   Mindfulness apps like mindfulness help reset your nervous system and focus on the present.

Recommended Books to Beat Imposter Syndrome

• The Secret Thoughts of Successful Women by Dr. Valerie Young
• Unlocking Your Authentic Self by Jennifer Hunt
• Beating Imposter Syndrome – Great for creatives and entrepreneurs

A Final Note: You Are Becoming

If you’ve ever heard the voice that says, “Who do you think you are?”, here’s your answer:

• You are someone with a purpose
• You are someone who dares to try
• You are someone in the process of becoming

So take the step.

✨ Write the post.
✨ Start the project.
✨ Speak the truth—even if your voice shakes.

Because the world doesn’t need perfection.

It needs you.

Read More About Imposter Syndrome:

• Healthline: What Is Imposter Syndrome?
• Verywell Mind: Imposter Syndrome and Social Anxiety