Imposter Syndrome: How I Learned to Believe in Myself
A decade ago, I hit a major career milestone—promotion to Director of Research, leading a team of brilliant investment analysts.
Did I feel proud? Excited? Ready?
Not even close.
Instead, I was drowning in imposter syndrome. How could I manage a team when I’d never been a manager? How could I guide analysts on sectors I wasn’t an expert in? How could I advocate for them when I wasn’t the loudest voice in the room?
The more I focused on what I didn’t know, the more I doubted myself. But over time, I realized was staring into a distorted mirror.
How I Changed my Perspective
I Focused on What I Did Bring
Instead of fixating on my gaps, I leaned into my strengths:I genuinely cared about my team’s growth.
I loved learning—so I asked questions instead of pretending to know everything.
I thrived on debate, not dominance—so I became the voice of reason, not the loudest voice.
I Redefined Leadership
I stopped thinking a leader had to be the smartest person in the room. Instead, I focused on:Helping my team see their blind spots (like getting lost in details or "thesis creep").
Creating an environment where we all could succeed—not just the most assertive.
Embracing what I didn’t know as an opportunity to learn, not a weakness.
I Normalized the Struggle
Imposter syndrome doesn’t discriminate—it hits high achievers, new managers, even CEOs. The difference? The ones who push through don’t wait until they feel "ready." They act despite the doubt.
If You’re Feeling Like an Imposter… Focus on F.A.C.T.
Focus on growth, not perfection. No one has it all figured out.
Acknowledge it. Name the feeling—it loses power when you do.
Challenge negative thoughts. Would you tell a friend they "don’t deserve" their success? Then why tell yourself?
Talk about it. You’d be surprised how many people feel the same way.
Today, I still have moments of doubt. But now, I see them as reminders that I’m growing—not proof I don’t belong.