Overcoming Imposter Syndrome as a Successful Business Owner
- Mikayla O. Faulkner
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
Have you ever felt lost in your own success, even when things are going well? You’re not alone. Many business owners experience imposter syndrome. It's a common feeling for entrepreneurs that can leave you feeling very overwhelmed mentally and emotionally. With the right practices, you can effecitely overcome imposter syndrome.
What is Imposter Syndrome?
Imposter syndrome is the inability to believe that your success is deserved or has been legitimately achieved as a result of one's own efforts or skills. It's a psychological experience that can make people, especially business owners, feel like a fraud or inadequate. These feelings can be a catalyst for anxiety, burnout, and stress.
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Types of Imposter Syndrome Business Owners Experience
There’s no one-size-fits-all version of imposter syndrome. It can show up in different ways. Overcoming imposter syndrome is possible, but only if you understand how it shows up in your life.
The Perfectionist
You think anything less than perfect is a failure. You may know that mistakes exist, but you don't think that making them is acceptable!
The Soloist
The Expert
The Natural Genius
The Superwoman/Superman
Recognizing your pattern helps you challenge it. Instead of asking, Why do I feel this way?, you can start asking, What can I do differently?
Have You Experienced Imposter Syndrome?
I deal with it alllll the time!
I actually never heard of it before now.
Some times. It depends on the time of year.
How to Ditch Imposter Syndrome: Building Confidence
According to the American Psychological Association, imposter syndrome affects up to 82% of people at some point in their careers. For entrepreneurs, the pressure to succeed, be visible, and handle everything perfectly can make those feelings even louder. Knowing how to feel more confident makes a difference in your personal attitude and overall business success.
Here are a few ways to start building it now:
1. Rewrite the Narrative
Notice when your inner voice says, “I’m not good enough.” Instead of ignoring it, reframe it. Try: “This is new, and it’s okay to learn as I go.” Be kind to yourself and show compassion. Every experience was new at some point, so you don’t need to fake expertise. Own your growth.
2. Track Your Wins
Confidence grows when you see proof. Write down every win—big or small. That glowing client email, your first $1,000 month, a kind review—it all counts. When you have SMART goals to refer back to, it help you have concrete documentation of your growth. Your brain needs those reminders to remember you're not starting from scratch. Despite your feelings of imposter syndrome, you can't argue with the facts. If you see that you're acheiving your goals, it can put emotional distraction to rest.
3. Normalize Imperfection
Perfection is a myth. *side eye to "The Perfectionist* Business is full of experiments, edits, and trying again. Remind yourself that the goal is progress, not perfection. The more you show up, even when unsure, the more confident you’ll feel over time.
Why Entrepreneurs Need Humor: The Health Benefits of a Good Laugh
"Entrepreneurship is often romanticized. People see the freedom, the passion, the drive—but they rarely talk about the stress. The long nights, the self-doubt, the pressure to succeed...Because of this, it's essential to prioritize the moments that make you laugh."
What Practicing Confidence Actually Looks Like
Knowing how to look confident is definitely easier said than done. It's definitely less about physical appearance and more about your energy.
Confident business owners:
Set boundaries around their time and energy
Speak directly and ask clear questions
Say “I don’t know” without shame
Share their offers without apologizing
Follow through on commitments—even the small ones
You don’t have to be loud. You don’t have to be “on.” Confidence can look calm, gentle, and quiet—and still be powerful.
Build your confidence with a welcoming community.
Conclusion: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
You don’t need to “fix” yourself to succeed in business but rather trust yourself. Overcoming imposter syndrome starts with naming the fear—and choosing to show up anyway. Approaching your imposter syndrome isn’t about being the best but confident. It’s about knowing you bring value and that your work matters. Moving forward with that mindset helps you operate as your best self.
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