How to Overcome Your Imposter Syndrome Without Feeling Arrogant

You just got promoted in your job or just opened your own business. It should make you feel so proud and happy! Instead, you are constantly anxious because you think you are one step away from making a major mistake that will tell the world—you are a FRAUD. Sounds familiar?

It is highly likely that what you are experiencing is Imposter Syndrome—a surprisingly widespread psychological pattern that affects far more people than you might realize.

YOU ARE NOT ALONE

Did you know that 70 percent of adults experience Imposter Syndrome at least once in their lifetime and that 25 to 30 percent of high achievers suffer from it too (Psychology Today, 2022)? For example, according to researchers at the Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University found that a whooping 87% of their incoming class of medical students exhibited a very high degree of Imposter Syndrome (2021).

IMPOSTER SYNDROME IS HOLDING YOU BACK

Imposter Syndrome, while not officially diagnosable, is a genuine psychological pattern that is linked to perfectionism and fear of failure. When you believe that your major achievements in life are due to luck, chances are, you do not honor the expertise you possess that got you there in the first place.

THE GOOD NEWS BUT…

Your feelings are not necessarily equal to reality. The even better news is that you can break this cycle. But then again, when you try to believe in yourself, people around you might see you as overconfident and now you find yourself in a dilemma—how do I overcome Imposter Syndrome without feeling arrogant in the long run?

PRACTICE THE “ASK" METHOD

Acknowledge the Feeling: Remind yourself that feeling like an “imposter” is a normal psychological response especially when you transitioned to something new in your life. The important thing is to focus on objective evidence of why you deserve your accomplishments.

Ask yourself, “What are my skills, experiences, and the positive feedback I get from people that led me to this place?”

Shift to a Contribution-Mindset: Instead of fixating on not making a mistake to protect your reputation, focus on the value you bring so you can naturally strengthen your confidence without the need to boast.

Ask yourself, “How can my work help others?”

Keep Your Circle Close: Your trusted group of friends, family, colleagues, and/or community can be a powerful buffer against self-doubt and stress because they can offer helpful feedback and remind you of how good you are when you cannot see it yourself.

Ask yourself, “Who in my inner circle are my biggest cheerleaders?”

PRACTICE & RESOURCES

If you feel inspired to ASK for help in overcoming your Imposter Syndrome, here are some ways to get a more detailed and step-by-step process explained to you, garner more inspiration, and practice with experts in the field and/or like-minded peers:

Women Who Launch Virtual Coffee Meet (Courageous Women's Circle)
For women ready to silence their inner critic and embrace confidence that looks and feels good. Message us to get an invite: https://www.couragecreatives.com/membership.

The Courage to ASK Complimentary Coaching Session
For men ready to move past self-doubt and past pains to take back your power, claim your complimentary one-on-one coaching with Maria Soriano, M.Ed., SHRM-CP (Limit: Only 3 openings available): https://www.couragecreatives.com/personalized-coaching.

References

Psychology Today. (2022, November 30). Imposter Syndrome. Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/imposter-syndrome

Thomas Jefferson University. (2021, March 19). Imposter syndrome is common among high achievers in med school.News and Events. Retrieved from https://www.jefferson.edu/about/news-and-events/2021/3/imposter-syndrome-in-medical-school.html

Maria Soriano is a dynamic leader, storyteller, and advocate for courageous living. As the founder and CEO of Courage Creatives, she helps individuals break through fear, find clarity, and take bold, values-driven steps toward personal and professional growth.

Dubbed as the Courage Coach, Maria brings deep empathy and actionable strategies to those navigating life transitions. She is also a sought-after host and emcee for community and corporate events, known for her energy, presence, and authenticity.

A SHRM-certified HR professional with years of experience in talent development, Maria also leads GoodHire Recruitment, a boutique agency that connects purpose-driven professionals with mission-aligned organizations. Her work in career architecture and workforce well-being has empowered countless individuals to align their gifts with meaningful work.

In addition, Maria brings over a decade of experience in higher education and currently serves as an adjunct faculty member at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. After receiving a certificate in Mind-Body Science from Harvard Medical School, she was inspired to pursue a graduate degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, further deepening her ability to support others with compassion, insight, and evidence-based practices.

Her love for storytelling continues through The Courageously Speaking Podcast, where she hosts raw, unfiltered conversations on resilience, leadership, and growth. Outside her professional work, Maria is a singer-songwriter who often collaborates with her husband, using music to inspire connection and healing.

At the heart of everything she does, Maria champions courage — helping others embrace uncertainty, trust their instincts, and live boldly and authentically.