Imposter Syndrome: Quieting the Inner Critic

Despite evident success, many high-achieving professionals silently struggle with self-doubt. They attribute accomplishments to luck, timing, or the perception that they’ve somehow managed to “fool” others into believing in their abilities. They fear they will be discovered for being a fraud, not enough. This internal narrative is not uncommon, and it has a name: Imposter Syndrome, also known as Imposter Phenomenon.

First identified by psychologists Dr. Pauline Clance and Dr. Suzanne Imes in 1978, Imposter Syndrome refers to the persistent belief that one is not as competent as others perceive them to be, despite clear evidence of achievement. It often manifests as perfectionism, overworking, difficulty accepting praise, and a constant fear of being “found out” (Clance & Imes, 1978).

You’re not alone . . .

  • An estimated 70% of people experience Imposter Syndrome at some point in their lives, including both men and women, across industries.

  • Among physicians, imposter traits range from 25% to 60%, with a higher incidence reported among women and early-career clinicians. These feelings are commonly associated with burnout, lower job satisfaction, and a reduced overall sense of well-being.

  • Women in leadership roles often report more intense and frequent imposter feelings, influenced by systemic bias, social expectations, and internalized perfectionism.

  • Men also experience Imposter Syndrome, although they may be less likely to report it and more likely to mask it with overachievement or avoidance.

  • Early-career professionals and new executives are particularly vulnerable, especially in high-visibility roles where confidence is expected to exceed experience.

Change your internal narratives . . .

Through coaching, we explore the roots of clients’ stories and help them challenge assumptions that fuel their imposter thinking.

As a trained Imposter Syndrome Coach Practitioner, I use the proprietary Three C’s Model©, created by Lisa Oribe-Austin, Ph.D., Executive Coach, author, and expert on Imposter Syndrome, to help clients . . .

Reframe Self-Perception

Coaching offers a confidential space for exploring and challenging distorted self-perceptions, enabling clients to recognize their strengths, internalize accomplishments, and reframe critical self-talk into constructive reflection.

Build Psychological Safety

A trusted coach offers a rare, judgment-free zone where clients can openly express vulnerability without fear of stigma or judgment—an essential step in normalizing the experience and reducing isolation.

Prevent and Reduce Burnout

Coaching supports emotional resilience and work-life integration, which are essential given the link between the imposter phenomenon and burnout. By aligning personal values with professional goals, coaching helps clients reconnect with meaning and purpose in their work.

Strengthen Executive Presence and Influence

For clients in leadership roles, coaching helps address internal doubts while improving communication, strategic thinking, and the executive presence needed to lead with authority and authenticity.

Develop Identity

Coaching can facilitate healthier identity formation by supporting confidence, leadership skills, and professional growth, helping clients grow into roles without the weight of perfectionistic or performative expectations.

 
 

Step into your future

Whether you’re an experienced executive or physician, stepping into a new leadership role, navigating a high-stakes environment, or simply tired of the anxiety that comes with “never feeling good enough,” this work helps you lead with authenticity, clarity, and ease.

Are you ready? Let’s talk!