You walk into the boardroom with confidence. You’re prepared and capable, and everyone around the table knows it — except, sometimes, you. Despite promotions, praise, and a solid track record, that persistent inner voice still whispers, “You don’t really belong here.”

Welcome to the internal battlefield of imposter syndrome, a silent struggle that many women leaders face — often in isolation.

This isn’t just theory. It’s a lived reality. According to a 2020 KPMG study, 75% of women executives reported experiencing imposter syndrome at some point in their careers. It’s that internal belief that your success isn’t earned — that you’ve fooled others into believing you’re more competent than you really are.

It’s not rare. It’s not just a phase. And if you’re a woman in a leadership role, you’re likely familiar with it.

What Imposter Syndrome Feels Like

According to the American Psychological Association, persistent self-doubt can plague women who’ve already achieved great success. The fear of being “found out” is real. Many walk around with the nagging feeling that they’ll eventually be exposed as a fraud — despite all evidence to the contrary.

A Forbes article notes how female managers often believe they must overwork themselves, say yes to every request, and constantly strive for perfection just to prove they belong. The result? Burnout, hidden resentment, and a diminishing sense of joy in leadership.

Even when success is achieved, it’s minimized:

“It was the team.”
“I got lucky.”
“Anyone could’ve done it.”

The KPMG Women’s Leadership Study emphasizes that while this may look like humility, it erodes confidence over time.

Why Women?

Why do women leaders struggle with imposter syndrome more than men? It’s not about capability — it’s about conditioning and context.

From a young age, girls are often socialized to be polite, modest, and agreeable. Traits like boldness, often praised in boys, are labeled “bossy” in girls. As they grow, women are frequently taught to avoid conflict and play it safe — even when capable of more.

This cultural conditioning clashes with the traits expected from leaders: assertiveness, confidence, and visibility. It creates a constant internal push and pull.

Add to this the lack of representation:

• In 2025, only 11% of Fortune 500 companies are led by women.
• Just 9% of FTSE 350 CEOs in the UK are women.

When you’re “the only” in the room, the pressure multiplies. You’re not just leading — you’re representing. That hyper-visibility breeds even more self-scrutiny.

Gender bias adds another layer. Women are more likely to be interrupted, misidentified as junior staff, or see their ideas ignored until repeated by others. Over time, these microaggressions lead to a deeper question: “Do I even belong here?”

The Lean In x McKinsey 2023 report reveals women are not only more likely to feel pressure to prove themselves — they’re also less likely to be promoted into management roles. The message, implicit or not, is clear: “You need to try harder to be seen as equal.”

Real Women. Real Struggles.

Even icons face it.

• Michelle Obama, in Becoming, shares deep doubts about whether she was good enough for the Ivy League or the White House.
• Sheryl Sandberg, former Meta COO, openly admitted to feeling out of place in boardrooms full of powerful men — despite her resume.

These aren’t signs of weakness. They’re evidence that imposter syndrome thrives in high-pressure, underrepresented environments — even among the most accomplished.

So, How Do You Beat Imposter Syndrome?

You don’t “snap out of it.” But you can stop it from calling the shots.

1. Catch That Thought

When your mind says, “I’m not good enough,” pause and challenge it.

Replace it with:

• “This is new, but I’m figuring it out.”
• “I’ve done hard things before. I can do this too.”

It’s not fake positivity. It’s fair self-talk.

2. Write Down the Facts

Keep a “proof” notebook. Jot down every win:

• “Led the strategy meeting with confidence.”
• “Client complimented my insight.”

Use it like your personal highlight reel when doubts creep in.

3. Say It Out Loud

Confide in someone you trust.
Say: “Lately, I’ve been feeling like I’m not good enough.”

Chances are, they’ll reply: “Same.”
Just like that, imposter syndrome loses power. It’s no longer a solo fight.

4. Do It Scared

Confidence doesn’t come first — action does.
Take the mic. Pitch the big idea. Say yes to the next-level project.
You may be nervous — but courage grows in motion.

5. Find Your People

You need a cheer squad. Build a network of people who:

• Celebrate your wins
• Challenge your doubts
• Remind you of your brilliance

If you don’t have one yet, start small: a mentor, a friend, or even a podcast.

Final Thoughts

Imposter syndrome may whisper that you’re not enough — but that doesn’t make it true. Doubt is just a thought, not a fact. And the loudest voice in your head isn’t always the right one.

Women leaders are breaking ground not because they’re flawless — but because they show up with courage and consistency. They lead even when it’s uncomfortable. They rise even when it’s uncertain.

FAQs

Q1. What exactly is imposter syndrome?

A: Imposter syndrome is the internal belief that your success is undeserved and that you’re “fooling” others into overestimating your competence — even when there’s clear evidence of your capability.

Q2. Why do women experience imposter syndrome more often?

A: Due to societal conditioning, gender bias, underrepresentation in leadership roles, and the pressure to overperform, many women develop chronic self-doubt — even in the face of success.

Q3. Can imposter syndrome be completely eliminated?

A: It may not disappear entirely, but you can learn to manage it. With awareness, reframing, support, and action, you can stop it from controlling your choices.

Q4. What tools can help women leaders overcome imposter syndrome?

A: Journaling wins, seeking mentorship, building strong professional networks, joining leadership communities like Ladies Who Lead, and practicing positive self-talk are powerful tools.

Q5. How can organizations support women battling imposter syndrome?

A: Companies can promote women into leadership roles, offer mentorship programs, recognize accomplishments publicly, ensure inclusive meeting practices, and provide access to mental wellness resources.