Imposter Syndrome

“Feeling Like an Imposter? Good. That Means You’re Growing.”

- Brittney Kosev

Have you ever felt like you’re just one step away from being “found out”? Like no matter how much you achieve, there’s still a little voice in your head saying, You don’t really belong here? That’s imposter syndrome, and it’s more common than you think. Entrepreneurs, CEOs, creatives, and even top leaders all struggle with it at some point. But here’s the truth—feeling like an imposter isn’t a sign that you’re failing. It’s proof that you’re stepping outside your comfort zone and into something bigger.

In this blog, we’re diving into why imposter syndrome happens, what’s going on in your brain when it strikes, and most importantly—how to push past it and keep growing.

Why Do We Feel Like Imposters?

Imposter syndrome happens when we step outside of our comfort zones. Every time we take on something new—whether it's speaking in public, leading a team, or investing in our future—our brain registers it as a potential threat. This triggers the amygdala, the fear center of our brain, which is wired to keep us safe.

It’s a survival mechanism. But while it was useful when we were dodging predators, today it just holds us back from taking the next big step.

The Science Behind It

Our brains are designed to resist change. The unfamiliar feels risky, and our default reaction is self-doubt. But what if I told you that this feeling is actually a sign that you’re on the right track?

Your brain has something called neuroplasticity—its ability to rewire itself. The more you expose yourself to new experiences, the stronger your confidence becomes. That means imposter syndrome isn’t a stop sign—it’s a green light to keep going.

How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome

The good news? You don’t have to stay stuck in self-doubt. Here are a few strategies to push past imposter syndrome and build unstoppable confidence:

1. Reframe the Narrative

Instead of thinking, I don’t belong here, shift to I’m learning and growing. Every successful person you admire has felt like an imposter at some point—the difference is, they kept going.

2. Take Action Over Perfection

Confidence doesn’t come from waiting until you feel “ready.” It comes from action. In the Navy, recruits must pass a swim test to qualify as a Third-Class Swimmer. Even those who are scared are required to jump off a platform into deep water, swim 50 yards, and tread water for five minutes. The Navy doesn’t wait for them to feel ready—they train them to act despite fear. The same principle applies to life: the more you take action, the less power fear has over you.

3. Keep a Success Journal

Document every win, no matter how small. Looking back on what you’ve already accomplished can remind you that you do belong.

4. Surround Yourself with the Right People

Find a mentor, coach, or community that lifts you up. The people you surround yourself with impact the way you see yourself.

5. Get Comfortable With Discomfort

Fear isn’t a sign to stop—it’s a sign you’re stepping into something bigger. Instead of running from fear, use it as a guide to where you should go next.

Final Thoughts: Keep Showing Up

So if you’ve ever felt like an imposter—if you’ve ever wondered, Who am I to do this?—remember this: the people we admire the most feel this way too. The difference is, they keep showing up.

And that’s exactly what I want for you. Keep pushing, keep stepping forward. You don’t have to be perfect—you just have to be real.

How can you cut the BS around imposter syndrome and take action toward your dream? Let me know in the comments!

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