Imposter Syndrome in Academia: Why Self-Doubt Doesn’t Just Disappear 

Recently, I stood in front of a room full of nurses at a conference and felt completely out of place – imposter syndrome in academia hit me hard. I kept thinking “I’m not a nurse”, “what am I doing here?”, “do I have anything valuable to say?” The anxiety was overwhelming, and the familiar voice of imposter syndrome whispered in the back of my mind: “They’re going to realise I don’t know what I am talking about”. 

Of course, this wasn’t the first time I’d felt this way. Throughout my PhD, imposter syndrome was a constant companion. I thought it would get easier after graduation and that earning the title of ‘Doctor’ would finally silence the doubts. But instead, I constantly find myself in a new environment, facing new challenges, and wondering again how I have gotten here.   

What is Imposter Syndrome? 

The term ‘imposter syndrome’ is widely used in academia and professional settings, yet it’s not officially recognised as a syndrome in terms of a medical condition. According to Clearer Thinking (a recent article I read that inspired this blog post), imposter syndrome occurs when someone doubts their abilities and feels like a fraud despite having the relevant skills and expertise. (sound familiar?) 

The impact of imposter syndrome is undeniable. It affects researchers, PhD students, professionals, celebrities – everyone!  

For me, imposter syndrome is that persistent fear that success is due to complete luck, and my failures are proof of my incompetence.   

The Internal Struggle of Imposter Syndrome in Academia 

For many PhD students and researchers, imposter syndrome is a silent and ongoing battle. The statistics of graduate students feeling depressed and anxious are really hard to read about, let alone the effects of this. As academics, we present papers, receive recognition, secure job roles and new positions, but instead of feeling accomplished, we worry that others will realise we’re not as capable as they think. We attribute success to luck and failure to personal inadequacy. 

These thoughts don’t just exist in the mind, they shape how we show up in the world. They make us hesitate before speaking up, second-guess our expertise, and hold back from opportunities that could propel us forward. 

Does all of this sound familiar? You are not alone in feeling this way, and you are far more capable than your doubts would have you believe. 

Navigating Imposter Syndrome 

Now, I’m not an expert (…is this imposter syndrome?), but I can share my own thoughts, experiences and learnings. And, since imposter syndrome has no ‘cure,’ the focus could be on strategies that help manage self-doubt and build researcher confidence. Coaching, mentorship, and self-compassion exercises are effective ways to shift the narrative.  

Clearer Thinking also developed a self-compassion tool designed to help individuals reframe their thoughts and recognise their true worth. This kind of mindset shift is especially powerful for academics navigating high-pressure environments. 

Most importantly, imposter syndrome thrives when you are feeling alone and working in isolation. Talking about how you feel, and acknowledging those imposter thoughts, can really help.   

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

Imposter syndrome can really hold us back. Particularly in academia, it can mean not submitting that application or paper because you think someone else will be better than you or feeling like you don’t have anything to add. You don’t feel like you actually know what you’re talking about, or you don’t believe you’re actually good enough. This can further isolate and prevent you from thriving and achieving our full potential. 

I’ve personally found coaching, mentoring, and counselling really helpful to have someone to support and talk through these things. My counsellor at Positive Talk has really helped me understand how I am feeling, and what is going on deeper down. I can better recognise it for what it is, becoming more aware of the imposter voice and changing the narrative.  

This blog post was actually so much harder to write than I expected. Imposter syndrome pops up a lot for me and I think so much about it. Constantly questioning myself and whether I am good enough (like is this blog post even worth sharing?)… But I also know that we do have to share – I have to share. It not only helps me to acknowledge my thoughts and feelings, but sharing could also help others. You are not alone! 

Struggling with Imposter Syndrome in Academia? 

Now, the great thing for me is helping others on their journey, seeing others progress and grow in confidence through my 1:1 coaching and mentoring services. I support researchers in navigating self-doubt, refining their communication, and recognising their true value as a researcher. 

Through coaching and mentoring I can help you build confidence and clarity. Whether you’re a student or early career researcher, I’m here to listen and support you on your journey.  

Your expertise deserves to be seen too – you can totally do this! Get in touch today to explore how we can work together.  

Feel free to reach out and leave a comment below to share things that have helped (or not helped) you!