Impostor Syndrome: Why It’s Normal and How to Deal With It

According to Wikipedia, impostor syndrome is that feeling where you think you don’t deserve your achievements and worry people will find out you’re a fraud.

Here’s the thing: it doesn’t matter how successful you are, how many wins you’ve had, or how much money you make. Everyone—yes, _everyone_—has felt this way at some point.

The truth is, impostor syndrome doesn’t just go away. You don’t “fix” it—you learn to manage it.

One thing that’s helped me is celebrating my wins, no matter how small. Talk yourself up. Say positive, empowering things that make you feel good. Be your own hype person.

And cut yourself some slack. Give yourself permission to mess up. Most mistakes aren’t as big a deal as we make them out to be. The worst consequences? They’re usually just in your head.

Also, recognize your zone of genius. What feels “normal” or “easy” to you might be incredibly valuable to others. Those skills you take for granted? They’re part of what’s gotten you this far.

Remember, you’re not the only one who’s messed up at something. You’re not the first, and you won’t be the last.

Oh, and about luck—it’s not just random. Sure, sometimes luck plays a role, but luck is also something you create. It’s called serendipity, and it happens when you put in the work.

Embrace imperfection. Nothing and no one is perfect. A few years ago, I thought big companies had everything figured out—perfect systems running like clockwork. Nope! Most of them are a hot mess, but from the outside, it looks like they’ve got it all together.

The truth is, we’re all figuring it out as we go. Don’t stress if you’re not 100% sure what you’re doing. That’s normal. You’ll learn along the way. The key is to take action.

And here’s the kicker: if you’ve ever felt impostor syndrome, it’s because you’re good at what you do. I don’t have proof, but I’m 100% sure of it.

No drama.

No fear.

Let’s keep going.

-R