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Have you ever regretted saying yes to something? Maybe you underestimated how long a project would actually take or you applied for a higher position at work and got it. But still, you can’t shake this voice in your head: 

"You’re not qualified for this."
 "They’re going to find out you don’t belong."
 "You’re faking it, and soon everyone will know."

Say hello (and good-bye) to imposter syndrome—where your achievements feel like accidents, and your self-doubt is louder than your potential. It’s a silent battle so many of us fight, especially when we’re stepping into new or bigger spaces.

Time to send those thoughts to the trash bin, because here’s the truth no one tells you: Feeling like an imposter doesn’t mean you’re unqualified. It means you’re growing.

So let’s talk about imposter syndrome —and how to break free from the cycle.

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What Imposter Syndrome Feels Like IRL

You might think imposter syndrome only appears in the movies, high-powered boardrooms or Ivy League classrooms, but it shows up everywhere—especially in moments that are supposed to feel like “wins.”

• Internships & First Jobs: You sit in meetings feeling like everyone else knows some secret language you missed. You second-guess every email. You’re afraid to ask questions because you don’t want to sound stupid.
  

• Creative Pursuits: You post your art, your music, your writing—and immediately want to delete it. You compare yourself to people with fancier portfolios, more followers, or "legit" credentials. You wonder if you’re just playing pretend.
  

• Starting Something New: Whether it’s a fitness journey, a blog, or even a business, you feel like everyone else has it figured out. You feel like a fraud for even trying.
  

The common thread? You believe your success is luck or timing—and any minute now, someone’s going to tap you on the shoulder and ask you to leave.

Why It Happens

Imposter syndrome usually creeps in during moments of transition or visibility. Why? Because those are the times we’re most vulnerable.

• We’re outside our comfort zones.
  

• We’re comparing ourselves to people further ahead.
  

• We’re afraid of being judged—and afraid of failing publicly.
  

Add in the pressure of social media, perfectionism, or being the "first" in your family or friend group to do something different, and it’s a perfect storm for self-doubt.

But here’s the good news: The people who struggle most with imposter syndrome are usually the ones most qualified—because they actually care.

How to Rewire the Inner Dialogue

You can’t snap your fingers and erase imposter syndrome, but you can learn to manage it. Here are four ways to shift your mindset and step into your worth:

1. Call It Out

The minute that voice pops into your head—recognize it. Name it (mine is called Steve)

“This is imposter syndrome. Not truth.”

Separating fact from fear helps you take back control of the narrative. It’s not about ignoring the voice—it’s about refusing to let it steer.

2. Keep a “Proof” Folder

Start collecting the receipts: praise from a boss or mentor, a successful project, a comment that made your day. Save screenshots, notes, anything that reminds you, “I did that.”

When imposter syndrome hits, open that folder. Let your past self remind you of what you’re capable of.

3. Talk to Someone Who Gets It

There’s nothing more powerful than realizing you're not alone. Open up to someone you trust—a coworker, friend, mentor, or therapist. You’ll probably hear: “Wait, I feel that too.”

Imposter syndrome thrives in silence. Talking about it is how you take away its power.

4. Redefine What Success Looks Like

Success isn’t “never messing up.” It’s showing up when it’s hard. It’s asking questions and trying again. Being fearless doesn’t mean you don’t experience it— it means you keep going in spite of fear.

Give yourself permission to be a beginner, to learn out loud, and to grow without needing to be perfect.

Final Thoughts: You’re Not a Fraud—You’re Human

Imposter syndrome is a sign you’re doing something brave. It means you’re stepping into territory that challenges you—and that’s where the best things happen.

So the next time that voice tells you you’re not good enough, pause and answer back:

"Actually, I belong here. I earned this. I’m learning. I’m growing. And I’m not backing down."

Keep showing up. That’s the secret.

—
Stay Fearless or Die Trying
Alexa Curtis 💌

I take on a few private coaching clients a month to help people build their own businesses and get out of their comfort zone. Reply to this email if you want my help.

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