Imposter feelings show up for most leaders, especially at moments of stretch and transition. This reflection explores how we can work with self-doubt as a source of insight, presence and leadership strength.
Halloween always gets me thinking about masks: who we become when we put one on.
But perhaps the more powerful question isn’t: who do I want to become?
It is: who am I already, and how can I show up more fully?
Around 70% of people experience imposter thoughts at some point in their career. That quiet doubt that whispers we’re not quite enough, even when the evidence clearly shows we are deeply capable, competent and credible.
I see this often in my work with leaders of all levels and teams. Imposter thinking tends to surface precisely at the edges of growth, where stretching into something new meets a desire to contribute something meaningful.
Imposter thoughts are not flaws to eliminate
They are data. They are signals. They are part of our inner intelligence system.
When we understand them, rather than suppress them, they can become a portal for deeper growth and powerful self-leadership.
Presence in the hybrid world
In today’s hybrid working world, leadership presence isn’t only about being in the room.
It is the intention, attention and energy you bring. The way you listen. The way you notice. The way you create space for ideas and more innovative thinking.
Leaders who show up authentically, even with self-doubt alive, create conditions where others can bring their best thinking forward. Because when we are willing to be real, others feel the permission to be real too.
Mini toolkit: mastering the imposter within
When imposter thoughts and feelings show up:
→ Name it. What exactly is the story here?
→ Reframe it. What stretch, value or growth is this signalling?
→ Redirect it. Use the energy to prepare, learn or connect, not withdraw.
Small, conscious moments like this build psychological strength and presence over time.
Because leadership is both about us, the energy and courage we bring, and it’s not about us. It is ultimately in the service of others, enabling them to thrive.
So perhaps the invitation isn’t who to dress up as (although that’s always fun!), but who you already are underneath, and what will help you bring the best version forward with more aliveness, clarity and ease.
What would help you show up more fully as who you already are?
By Cass Coulston