COMPASS BLOG
Silencing Self-Doubt:
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in CAREER, health & LIFE!
Sarah Wilcox - 12 January 2025
How often have you started something full of excitement and ambition, only to stop when a quiet, insistent voice whispers, “Who do you think you are?” You’re not alone. That nagging self-doubt, often referred to as imposter syndrome, has a way of creeping into every corner of life—whether it’s pursuing a new career, speaking up in a meeting, or tackling a personal goal. It’s that persistent feeling of not being “enough,” even when the evidence says otherwise (Clance & Imes, 1978). For many of us, it’s not just an occasional thought—it’s a constant undercurrent that holds us back from achieving our potential.
For me, imposter syndrome has been a recurring challenge throughout my career and personal life. As a physiotherapist, I’ve felt it when stepping into new roles or managing more complex cases. As a coach, I’ve questioned whether I’m really qualified to guide others, despite years of experience and training. And even in day-to-day life, it’s there—showing up in unexpected ways, like hesitating to take on a new venture or share an idea. (In fact, it’s taken me two years to finally get this project from a thought to action; and that even with experience in own a coaching business before!) It’s a phenomenon that doesn’t discriminate, affecting people across all professions and stages of life.
What’s fascinating—and frustrating—is how imposter syndrome often shows up in areas where we’re already capable. In rehabilitation, fitness, and training, for example, these feelings of self-doubt can have a profound impact. If you’ve ever felt out of place in the gym, doubted your ability to stick with a programme, or hesitated to set a bold goal because you don’t feel “fit enough,” then you’ve experienced how imposter syndrome influences both mindset and results. These feelings can undermine confidence, reduce motivation, and ultimately slow progress—not because we lack ability, but because we convince ourselves we’re not deserving of success.
So, how do we overcome it? The first step is recognising and naming imposter syndrome for what it is: a feeling, not a fact. From there, it’s about taking small, actionable steps that build confidence over time. This might mean celebrating small wins, setting realistic goals, or reframing failure as a learning opportunity. Sometimes it requires challenging the negative narratives we tell ourselves—questioning the “I’m not good enough” script with evidence of your skills and achievements. And most importantly, it involves creating space for these conversations. Normalising the experience of imposter syndrome, sharing our stories, and supporting one another can make all the difference.
Whether you’re navigating imposter syndrome in your training, your work, or your personal life, know this: you’re not alone, and you’re not powerless. Let’s talk about it, challenge it, and start moving forward—together.