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Stepping out of your comfort zone can feel like walking a tightrope—every step uncertain, every breeze threatening to knock you off balance. The unfamiliar territory is scary for anyone, but for those of us wrestling with imposter syndrome, it can feel like venturing into the storm completely unprepared, a fraud waiting to be exposed.

I’ve battled these feelings throughout my career, especially after being justice-involved and later stepping into nonprofit leadership. There’s a voice in the back of my mind that constantly whispers, “You don’t belong here,” or “One mistake and they’ll all know you’re not really good enough.” This internal battle has followed me through milestones and moments of growth, but each time, I have had to choose courage over comfort, and over time, that courage has chipped away at imposter syndrome’s hold on me.

What is Imposter Syndrome?

Imposter syndrome is the persistent fear that you are not as competent as others perceive you to be, despite evidence of your achievements. This feeling of inadequacy is common, especially among high achievers. According to research published in The Journal of Behavioral Science, an estimated 70% of people will experience imposter syndrome at some point in their lives. Imagine that—most of us, at one time or another, have questioned our ability to be where we are.

But knowing it’s common doesn’t make it easier. For me, the stakes felt higher. After my incarceration, there was a shadow over every accomplishment. Even as I led programs that made real impacts, like reducing recidivism rates and securing funding to help others, that nagging feeling persisted. Could I really be trusted with so much responsibility, given my past?

Embracing Discomfort to Grow

One of the hardest lessons I’ve learned is that the growth I seek exists on the other side of my comfort zone. Every time I step out of what feels safe, I build resilience, not just against external challenges but also against that internal voice of doubt.

I remember when I first started working with large grants and overseeing entire teams at Persevere. The enormity of responsibility felt suffocating. Every decision felt like a test of my worthiness. But I knew I couldn’t let fear dictate my actions. I had to show up for my team and the individuals who depend on our programs. In that process, I learned that imposter syndrome is really about fear—the fear of being found lacking. The antidote? Action, even when you’re scared.

Each time I took a leap—whether it was delivering a presentation to stakeholders, securing a grant, or managing large teams—the fear didn’t just go away. It got quieter as I proved to myself again and again that I was capable.

Using Your Story as Power

Facing imposter syndrome head-on requires reframing your narrative. I had to learn to stop seeing my background as a liability and start seeing it as an asset. My experiences—especially my lowest moments—gave me insight and empathy that I would not have otherwise. They fueled my passion for my work and helped me connect deeply with the people I serve.

Statistics show that those with marginalized identities, including women, people of color, and formerly incarcerated individuals, are disproportionately affected by imposter syndrome. A study by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) found that women and minority groups are more likely to feel like they don’t belong in professional environments. Knowing that imposter syndrome can disproportionately affect those who don’t “fit the mold” helped me understand that it’s not about me being inadequate—it’s about broader societal structures making us feel that way.

What Helped Me Move Forward

1. Finding Allies: Surrounding myself with people who understood and believed in me made all the difference. Having mentors and colleagues who see your worth is crucial. Their encouragement helped counterbalance my self-doubt.

2. Celebrating Wins: Instead of brushing off my successes as “luck” or “just doing my job,” I learned to celebrate them, no matter how small. Each win became a piece of evidence that I did belong.

3. Practicing Self-Compassion: Imposter syndrome thrives on perfectionism. The pressure to perform flawlessly can be paralyzing, so I had to learn to forgive myself when things didn’t go as planned.

4. Leaning into Faith: In moments of doubt, I often lean on my faith. I remind myself that God didn’t bring me this far just to leave me here. It helps me silence the voice of imposter syndrome and step boldly into the roles I’ve been given.

Moving Forward, One Step at a Time

Even now, imposter syndrome shows up. Sometimes it’s a whisper, other times a roar. But I’ve learned that the way to keep it from controlling me is to keep moving. Each time I step out of my comfort zone and face the discomfort head-on, I build confidence that outlasts the doubt.

If you’re feeling like an imposter right now, know that you are not alone. The very fact that you’re questioning your worth shows you care about your work and the impact you’re making. You deserve to be here—take it from someone who has walked through the fire of doubt and come out stronger on the other side.

Remember: growth happens in the discomfort, and the only way to defeat imposter syndrome is to face it head-on. So, keep stepping forward.

Sources:

• The Journal of Behavioral Science: Imposter Syndrome Study (2019)

• National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI): Women and Imposter Syndrome Study (2021)