Episode 54 The Hidden Ways Imposter Syndrome Shows Up For Successful Women
In this episode Sarah explores the subtle yet powerful ways imposter feelings show up for high-achieving women-often without them realising. From overthinking to perfectionism to holding back in meetings, Sarah breaks down eight common patterns she sees in her clients and shares a simple but effective mindset tool you can start using today. If imposter feelings have been draining your confidence, energy, or ambition, this episode will help you recognise the signs and take your first steps toward breaking free.
Show Notes
[00:00:00] – Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable
[00:01:00] – Why Imposter Feelings Matter
The hidden ways imposter feelings show up for successful women. Inspired by a recent LinkedIn poll, she highlights overthinking and self-doubt as the two most common manifestations.
[00:02:00] – Awareness Is Step One
Imposter feelings are sneaky, often long-established patterns. Sarah explains why becoming aware of how they show up is crucial before you can change them.
[00:02:30] – Webinar Announcement
Sarah invites listeners to her upcoming webinar: How to Break Free From Imposter Syndrome and Shine as a Leader (25th November).
[00:03:00] – Imposter Feelings in Practice
Sarah shares how imposter feelings affected her early leadership career-leading to over-preparation, comparison, anxiety, and eventually burnout.
[00:04:00] – What Imposter Feelings Really Are
She reframes “imposter syndrome” as “imposter feelings” and describes them as a psychological pattern-not a personal flaw. Patterns can be changed.
[00:05:30] – The 8 Hidden Ways Imposter Feelings Show Up
Sarah introduces eight subtle but common behaviours driven by imposter feelings.
The 8 Hidden Ways Imposter Feelings Show Up
1. [00:06:00] Over-Preparation / Perfectionism
Feeling you must deliver perfectly, leading to burnout, procrastination, and risk-aversion.
2. [00:07:00] Downplaying Achievements
Attributing success to luck or others, which diminishes your visibility and value in the eyes of others.
3. [00:07:30] Holding Back Opinions
Staying silent in meetings to avoid being wrong-reducing influence and visibility.
4. [00:08:00] Avoiding Visibility
Turning down opportunities that stretch you, limiting growth and career progression.
5. [00:09:00] Over-Apologising
Using apologetic language unnecessarily, which can reduce perceived confidence.
6. [00:09:30] Comparisonitis
Measuring your success against others rather than your own criteria, distracting from your own growth.
7. [00:10:00] Second-Guessing & Overthinking
Overthinking minor or major decisions, causing procrastination, missed opportunities, and decision fatigue.
8. [00:11:00] Taking On Too Much
Saying yes to everything or micromanaging to “prove yourself,” often resulting in burnout and appearing less strategic.
[00:12:30] – The Fear of Changing What “Works”
Sarah acknowledges the fear many women have: If I stop doing these behaviours, will I still be successful? She explains why the answer is yes and how letting go can unlock more effective leadership.
[00:13:00] – Mini Mindset Exercise: Naming Your Inner Critic
Sarah shares a practical technique for bringing the unconscious “imposter voice” into awareness:
- Name your inner critic to separate it from your identity.
- Identify its triggers.
- Present evidence to counter its claims.
- Use self-reassurance in the moment.
She shares a client story about how naming her inner critic (“Diana”) helped her shift her thinking and confidence in real time during a meeting.
[00:17:00] – Final Thoughts
Imposter feelings are invisible and draining but they are changeable. With awareness and intentional action, you can break free and step into leadership with confidence and clarity.
Useful Links
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