Imposter Syndrome: The Gap Between What You’ve Done and What You Believe

Episode Overview
In this episode, we dive into imposter syndrome — that all-too-familiar sense of doubting yourself despite clear evidence you’ve earned your place. We talk about how it has shown up in our own lives, why it’s especially common among high achievers, and how it quietly chips away at self-worth. From the root causes we pick up as kids to the way adult pressures amplify it, we explore why so many of us carry this fear of being “found out.” Most importantly, we share the practical ways we’ve learned to turn the volume down — reframing success, tracking wins, and remembering that feelings aren’t facts.

Key Discussion Points

• What imposter syndrome really is and why it’s so common
• Early roots: praise, comparison, and perfectionism
• Why high achievers often feel it most
• How workplaces and life transitions amplify self-doubt
• The nervous system’s role in treating visibility as danger
• Practical shifts that help: naming it, tracking wins, reframing success
• Why self-worth — not achievement — is the real antidote
  
  

Listener Takeaways

• Feeling like a fraud doesn’t mean you are one — feelings aren’t facts.
• Reframe success as effort and growth, not just flawless results.
• Keep your wins close and stop “comparing up.”
• Mistakes are proof you’re learning, not proof you don’t belong.
• Your worth isn’t tied to achievements or approval — you’re already enough.
  
  

Join the Conversation

If imposter syndrome has shown up in your life, you’re in good company. We’d love to hear your story — DM us or send a voice note. And if you know someone who needs this reminder, please share the episode with them. You keep us sane too. 🤍

Please join us on Patreon for our Sanity Checks - our short weekly episodes where we share what’s really on our minds. They’ve been part of the podcast since the very beginning - those little check-ins about what’s weighing on us, what we’re learning, and how we’re holding it all together. 

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Hosts: Aileen Harvey & Julie Fahy

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Disclaimer:

Remember, we’re two friends sharing our personal experiences and discussing everyday challenges. We’re not qualified coaches or therapists, and our content is for general information and supportive conversation only. If you need professional help, please seek advice from a licensed therapist.