You’re More Qualified Than You Think

Imposter syndrome doesn’t discriminate. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve built a 20-year career, the voice of doubt can creep in when you least expect it. Recently, I started working with a new coaching client who is battling this very challenge.

His story is one that reminds us how easy it is, even for the most successful among us, to fall into the imposter trap.

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Let me introduce you to Ivan [Name withheld for privacy], a professional engineer focusing on sustainability. He’s spent nearly two decades building programs and solutions for some of the most respected companies in his field. His peers regard him as one of the top 10 experts in North America—no small feat in such a competitive and rapidly evolving sector. If you looked at his résumé, you’d see a professional who has not only achieved remarkable success but also significantly shaped the sustainability landscape.

Yet, despite these accomplishments, Ivan finds himself questioning his abilities. Recently, after a round of corporate restructuring, he was left searching for a new career path. Faced with the uncertainty of what to do next, a fear began to set in.

• Could he succeed in a new environment?

• Was he still relevant in a market that evolves faster than ever?

• Did he even have the skills to embark on something new?

This sense of inadequacy—of not being "good enough"—is a hallmark of imposter syndrome. It’s the persistent fear that, despite the evidence of past success, you’ve somehow been faking it, and soon, everyone will figure it out. And this isn’t an isolated case. Studies show that up to 70% of people will experience imposter syndrome at some point in their careers.

In my coaching sessions, we’ve worked through a few key strategies to help him manage this crippling self-doubt and reclaim his confidence:

1. Recognize Your Achievements: Imposter syndrome often causes us to discount our past successes. I encouraged him to look back at his body of work—his accomplishments and the value he’s added to every company he’s worked for. This reflection serves as a powerful reminder of the tangible impact he’s had.

2. Embrace the Transition: Career transitions, while daunting, can also present an opportunity for growth. Rather than seeing this as a setback, I helped him frame this restructuring as a chance to explore new challenges, possibly in areas he hadn’t considered before.

3. Find Support: None of us are immune to self-doubt, and sometimes, the best way to break free is to lean on the guidance and encouragement of others. By seeking out coaching, he made a proactive decision to get help—something that many of us hesitate to do but can be a game-changer when facing career crossroads.

Imposter syndrome doesn’t disappear overnight. It’s something that requires conscious work. But as my client progresses, he’s starting to realize that his career is not defined by one job title or one company. His skills, his expertise, and his ability to adapt are what make him valuable. And in the end, that’s what will carry him forward into his next chapter.

If you’ve ever felt like you don’t belong in the room despite your achievements, you’re not alone. Remember: It’s not about what others think you’re capable of—it’s about what you already know you can do.

Learn, Evolve, and Prosper,

Until next time,
Roger M. Thompson

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