Imposter syndrome: “I don’t feel good enough.”
If you’ve ever experienced this feeling, you’re not alone. It’s that internal voice telling you that you’re not qualified, not worthy, or simply not cut out for the challenges ahead. For most of us, this feeling comes up at some point in our lives, and for many, it returns again and again. However, I’ve noticed that imposter syndrome often peaks at the moment we’re on the verge of something great.
Right when you’re about to take a leap into the unknown, particularly in areas that are close to your heart—whether it’s stepping into a new professional role, chasing a long-held dream, or making an important life change. It’s as if the universe senses you’re about to break through a barrier, and the fear hits hard right when you’re at the threshold.
You’ve spent years preparing for this moment in your mind, thinking about it, dreaming about it, and now, it’s happening. But instead of feeling elated, you start questioning yourself: “Am I good enough? Do I really know enough? Maybe I’m too young… or maybe I’m too old for this?”
As women, these doubts seem to amplify—especially when you’re balancing multiple roles. You’re not just thinking about your career or personal goals; you’re also considering how this decision will affect your family, your children, and your home life. It’s a constant mental juggling act.
The Struggle Is Real: Balancing Family and Ambition
Let’s be honest—society often sets us up to feel like we’re constantly falling short. On one hand, we’re expected to excel professionally, chase our dreams, and build fulfilling careers. On the other hand, we’re also expected to be the “perfect” mother, wife, and homemaker. It’s like we’re living in a world where “having it all” means having everything perfectly balanced. But who can do that without feeling a bit stretched?
When you step up to pursue a new opportunity, the first thoughts often aren’t about your own capabilities—they’re about your family. How will this impact my family’s schedule? Will I miss school events or soccer practice? Can I still cook dinner every night? What will the kids do without me during the evening routine? These are real concerns that most mothers face when embarking on something new.
And then, there’s the guilt. The guilt of potentially disrupting your kids’ lives, your spouse’s routine, or your home’s harmony. This emotional burden can make us second-guess our decisions, even when deep down we know we’re doing this for our own growth and fulfillment. We often feel like we’re caught in a tug-of-war between our aspirations and our responsibilities.
The Fear of What Others Think
Another layer to imposter syndrome is the worry about what others think. As women, we tend to put others first, sometimes at the expense of our own happiness. You might wonder, What will my friends and family think? Will they see me as selfish for chasing this new path? Am I letting others down by shifting roles or pursuing a different career?
These are all valid fears, but they can keep us stuck in indecision and self-doubt. In truth, no one’s judgment is more important than your own sense of purpose. If the changes you’re making are in line with your dreams, your goals, and your well-being, you don’t owe anyone an apology.
Reprogramming Your Brain: Fear Is Not the Enemy
When you experience imposter syndrome, the voice of fear is often at the forefront. It tries to keep you small, to hold you back in your comfort zone where nothing feels risky. But here’s the thing: that voice isn’t your intuition. It’s fear—fear of the unknown, fear of failure, and fear of change. And yes, if you’re like me, change is hard. Change can feel like a tidal wave sweeping through your life, leaving little room to process what’s happening.
But what if I told you that those waves of fear are actually the signals of transformation? When you’re on the verge of something big, something life-changing, fear is simply your brain’s way of protecting you from the discomfort of stepping outside your comfort zone. Your brain is wired for safety, not growth. But growth, real growth, only happens when you push through that discomfort.
How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome: A Practical Guide
Acknowledge the Fear, Don’t Let It Lead.
The first step is acknowledging that imposter syndrome is real and it’s often a sign that you’re on the cusp of growth. Fear is natural, but it doesn’t define you. Don’t let it control your decisions.Shift Your Mindset.
Instead of focusing on what you can’t do, start focusing on what you can do. Reflect on your skills, experience, and the preparation that’s led you here. You are not an imposter; you are simply evolving and stepping into a new version of yourself.Talk to Someone Who Gets It.
Whether it’s a mentor, a close friend, or a partner, find someone who can offer encouragement and remind you of your strengths. You need that positive push, especially when you’re feeling stuck in your head. Sometimes, all it takes is hearing someone say, “You’ve got this!” to push past the fear.Embrace Change as a Necessity for Growth.
Yes, change is uncomfortable. But it’s also necessary. Your growth won’t happen in the safety of your comfort zone. Trust the process, even when it feels messy. The more you embrace change, the easier it becomes to move through it.Set Boundaries for Balance.
It’s okay to adjust your priorities and set boundaries, especially when you’re balancing family and career. Be clear about your commitments and what you need to thrive. Remember, you can still be a great mom and a successful professional. It’s not an either/or situation—it’s about finding a balance that works for you.Let Go of Perfectionism.
Perfectionism is a huge obstacle for many women, but it’s also one of the greatest barriers to progress. You don’t have to have everything perfectly lined up before you take action. Trust yourself to handle challenges as they come.
Conclusion: You Are Enough
Imposter syndrome may never fully disappear. It’s something we all deal with, especially when we’re doing big things. But remember: when you feel like an imposter, it’s often a sign that you’re doing something right. You are pushing boundaries. You are stepping into new opportunities that will shape you and your family in amazing ways.
So next time you hear that voice in your head saying, “You’re not enough”—ignore it. Push forward. You’ve got this. You are enough. And your dreams are waiting for you on the other side of that fear. Keep going!
Want to learn more?!! Check out Glow & Flow ! A self-guided course all about lowering cortisol naturally, losing that cortisol belly, and focusing on a healthy mindset for stress reduction. PLUS, you get free access to the Glow & Flow Community!
