The Great Pretender: overcoming imposter syndrome

18 Jun 2025, 8 a.m.

By Linda

Many able and successful people sometimes feel they are frauds and will be found out. In this week's blog, we look behind the mask and address imposter syndrome.

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In her newly released book, A different kind of power : a memoir, and throughout media interviews surrounding the book launch, former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has regularly referenced her “imposter syndrome”.

In her book she writes "My whole short life, I'd grappled with the idea that I was never quite good enough, that at any moment I would be caught short."

Imposter syndrome is loosely defined as doubting your abilities and feeling like a fraud when your achievements are noted.

Those who are high achieving, or perfectionists, are most like to suffer this feeling.

In some ways these sentiments can drive us to accomplish more but there is also a downside to the pressure we, as individuals, put on ourselves.

Ardern feels there are benefits to this “confidence gap” saying that: A confidence gap often leads to humility, a willingness to bring in experts and advisors, and I think ultimately makes you a better decision maker."

This week our blog collates resources to understand and overcome Imposter syndrome.

Watch and listen

What is imposter syndrome and how can you combat it? (TED talk)
Why can't so many of us shake feelings that our ideas and skills aren't worthy of others' attention? Elizabeth Cox describes the psychology behind the imposter syndrome, and what you can do to combat it. [TED-Ed Animation by Sharon Coleman].

Fighting impostor syndrome (TED talks)

You deserve much more than you think -- that job you've been eyeing, the raise you want, your next step. Let these talks help you get there.

Being Well Podcast: How to overcome imposter syndrome

Explore how to overcome imposter syndrome, the common psychological experience of self-doubt and feeling like a fraud.

Learn

These LinkedIn learning courses are available with Library registration

Coping with impostor syndrome to build career confidence
25m, General, Released: 11/2/2021

If you’ve ever found yourself feeling unworthy of promotions, opportunities, or accolades; constantly worried about being discovered as a fraud who doesn’t belong; or chronically needing to prove yourself time and again in your role, despite a track record of positive past performance…then this course is for you. Emilie Aries helps you unpack what impostor syndrome is, how it holds us back, and how we can take active steps to overcome it.

Overcoming imposter syndrome as a new executive
41m, General, Released: 8/2/2024

Christina Joy Whittaker, renowned business and leadership strategist, guides new executives through overcoming imposter syndrome in this transformative course. You will learn to recognize and address the internal barriers that hinder leadership effectiveness. Through practical techniques, Christina helps you build confidence, cultivate a supportive environment, and foster resilience, enabling authentic and impactful leadership.

Overcoming imposter syndrome

32m, Beginner, Released: 10/4/2019

Those who experience imposter syndrome often believe they are inferior to others or have faked their way into positions despite impressive accomplishments. . Join instructor Carolyn Goerner as she explains the different types of imposter syndrome and shares constructive ways you can begin to overcome this negative thought cycle.