Battling Imposter Syndrome: When Doubt Creeps In

Have you ever seen someone else's success and felt a sinking feeling in your stomach, thinking, "What am I doing this for? Will my work ever compare?" I certainly have. In fact, just recently, I scrolled through LinkedIn, saw a post celebrating someone’s book success, and instantly, my brain switched into imposter mode. A rush of thoughts took over: Am I even good enough? Why bother when others are so much further ahead?

These moments can feel crushing, especially when you're working hard on something you deeply care about. For me, it's my current writing projects—ones I’ve invested time, effort, and heart into. Yet seeing someone else’s milestone made me question everything, leading to that age-old companion of mine (and likely many others): Imposter Syndrome.

What is Imposter Syndrome?

Imposter Syndrome is that nagging voice inside your head that tells you you’re not good enough, no matter how much you’ve accomplished. It convinces you that everyone else has it all figured out while you’re just faking it, waiting to be found out. Sound familiar?

Why We Feel This Way

The truth is, imposter syndrome can stem from various sources—societal pressures, comparison culture, or our own inner critics. In today’s world of social media, where everyone’s success is broadcasted 24/7, it’s easy to feel behind or inadequate. The curated highlight reels we see make us feel like our efforts pale in comparison. And for someone like me, who's working on creative projects such as writing books and blogs, the vulnerability of putting my work out there sometimes magnifies those feelings of self-doubt.

Imposter Syndrome and ADHD

For those of us with ADHD, imposter syndrome can be particularly persistent. ADHD often comes with feelings of being behind, disorganised, or overwhelmed, which can intensify the belief that we’re "faking it" or not measuring up. The challenges with attention, memory, and executive function that come with ADHD can make it easy to doubt your own capabilities, even when you’ve accomplished significant things. In fact, the drive to overcompensate or hide ADHD-related struggles may lead to perfectionism, which fuels imposter syndrome even more.

When you find yourself stuck in this mindset, remember that these feelings are part of how ADHD affects you—and they aren’t a reflection of your true abilities or worth.

Why Am I Doing This? Who Am I Doing This For?

When imposter syndrome hits, I often start questioning the core of my purpose. Why am I writing this book or blog? Who am I really doing this for?

I realise that it’s essential to step back and remind myself of my "why." My writing isn't meant to compete with anyone else's. It's for me—a way to express my voice, share my experiences, and hopefully help others who resonate with the topics I explore, like ADHD, perimenopause, and mental health. It’s about connecting with those who may feel the same way or need to hear that they're not alone. In short, it’s for my community and myself—not for comparison.

How to Get Over These Feelings and Move On

Easier said than done, right? But here are some strategies I’ve been using to deal with imposter syndrome:

1. Acknowledge It: Recognise when you’re feeling like an imposter. Naming the emotion can help diffuse its power over you. It’s okay to feel this way; many of us do at times, sometimes several times a day!
2. Reframe the Narrative: Instead of seeing someone else’s success as a reflection of your lack of achievement, try to reframe it as motivation. If they can do it, so can you! Everyone’s journey is different, and what you’re working on is valuable, even if it is just to you.
3. Focus on Progress, Not Perfection: Perfectionism is a key driver of imposter syndrome. Instead of expecting flawless outcomes, celebrate the progress you’ve made. Even small steps are still forward momentum.
4. Connect with Your Community: Surround yourself with people who uplift you, whether it’s friends, family, or online communities. Share your feelings with them—they might be feeling the same way. Collective support can make a world of difference.
5. Set Realistic Goals: Break your larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks. Each completed task is a win that can help boost your confidence.
6. Remind Yourself of Your "Why": Why are you doing what you’re doing? Return to that core purpose when doubt creeps in. You started this for a reason, and that reason still matters.

Moving Forward

Imposter syndrome doesn’t just disappear overnight. It’s a mindset that we have to continuously work on overcoming. For me, remembering that my work is unique, valuable, and—most importantly—my own, helps keep those imposter feelings in check.

At the end of the day, I’m doing this because it’s something I believe in. My words, experiences, and insights are worth sharing, even if they don’t align perfectly with someone else’s journey. There’s room for everyone, and we all have our own stories to tell and it feels good just getting it out on paper, so to speak.

So, if you’ve ever felt like an imposter—if you've ever asked yourself, "What’s the point?"—know that you’re not alone. We all have moments of doubt. But don’t let them stop you. Keep creating, keep pushing forward, and keep sharing your voice. It’s worth it.

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Have you ever felt like an imposter in your own life? Let’s talk about it in the comments. How do you overcome those feelings, and what strategies have worked for you? Let’s support each other on this journey.