How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome (4 Steps)
Updated: Feb 14
Thank you to our sponsors who keep this newsletter free to the reader:
Download my FREE mini course, Break the Procrastination Cycle, and start living life with intention.
Learn the toolkit that's helped hundreds of neurodivergent adults manage life with clarity and confidence.
Hi Friend,
Last year, I shared a strategy to S.T.O.P. imposter syndrome, but throughout the year, I noticed imposter syndrome was still holding me back. My strategy worked mostly, but in certain areas, it felt short.
So, I took another deep dive. And, after reading and researching, I added four powerful reflection questions to my strategy.
Today, I want to share them with you.
Let's dive in.
What is Imposter Syndrome and How Does It Impact Neurodivergent People?
Imposter syndrome keeps us stuck. It prevented me from taking the next step in my career. I knew the stories I told myself weren't true, but that didn't matter.
If you’re avoiding tough but necessary steps toward growth like networking, updating your resume, or even acknowledging your strengths, there’s a good chance imposter syndrome is running the show.
Is the voice in your head whispering...
I could never run my own business
there's no way they would give me a raise
one day, they will find out I'm not as good as they think I am
If so, you’re in good company. Emma Watson, Lady Gaga, Michelle Obama, and Maya Angelou have all spoken about their struggles with imposter syndrome.
“I have written eleven books, but each time I think, 'Uh oh, they're going to find out now. I've run a game on everybody and they're going to find me out.'" - Maya Angelou
The difference? They learned to shift their mindset so imposter syndrome didn’t hold them back.
And, I know you can too.
The Link Between Imposter Syndrome and ADHD
Imposter syndrome is not a disorder but is common among neurodivergent adults.
According to Dr. Sharon Saline, many neurodivergent adults struggle to accept positive feedback. ADHD makes it especially difficult to internalize success. This fuels the imposter.
Think about the last time someone complimented your work. Did you genuinely accept it?
Or did you deflect, downplay it, or convince yourself it was just luck? This might look like:
Other Person: You have a beautiful website.
You: Thanks. But yours is so much better.
This pattern reinforces self-doubt, keeping you from taking the risks that lead to real growth.
And the biggest trap? Waiting until you feel confident before taking action. Confidence doesn’t come first. Action does.
How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome (4 Steps)
Imposter syndrome can be overcome quickly and metacognition (an executive function skill) plays a key role. Step three of my S.T.O.P Method, asks you to untangle the story you're telling from what's truly happening.
These four reflection questions will guide you in doing so and setting a clear, small, action step. I created a worksheet to guide you through each step; you can download it here (it's free).
Take a few minutes, find a quiet space, and journal through these four questions:
What am I believing about my abilities?
Clearly define what limiting belief you are telling yourself. This is the imposter talking. It's the belief that's holding you back.
Example: “I’m not experienced enough to apply for this job.”
How am I reinforcing this belief?
In what ways are you turning this belief into reality? It could be something you are doing, or not doing.
Example: “I tell myself I need a few more years before I’m ready. I avoid opportunities that could help me grow.”
What would I rather believe?
Replace that limiting, false belief with what you deeply desire. This is a belief you will prove to yourself through action.
Example: “I have many years of experience and receive positive annual reviews. This job may be a stretch, but I'll never know unless I try."
What action will help reinforce this new belief?
Action conquers fear. What is one small action you will take to move forward? Make it so small you would be silly not to do it.
Example: “This weekend, I'll spend 25 minutes updating my resume with recent accomplishments."
Summary
If imposter syndrome is holding you back, use these four questions to parse the stories you're telling yourself from what's truly happening.
What am I believing about my abilities?
How am I reinforcing this belief?
What would I rather believe?
What action will help me reinforce this new belief?
Let's be honest, if you take action, you might get rejected. That’s not because you’re not good enough—it’s because everyone faces rejection.
The difference is, successful people don’t take it as a sign to stop. So why should you?
Start today. I’m with you.
In service,
Eric
P.S. Free Mini Course: Break the Procrastination Cycle
Procrastination can seriously impact your mental health, physical well-being, and financial freedom.
My free mini-course, Break the Procrastination Cycle, teaches the 4 emotions behind procrastination, how to spot them, and a proven toolkit to manage them—all in just 30 minutes
If you, or someone you care about, struggle with procrastination, this course is here to help. You can access it for free by clicking here.
About the Author
Eric Kaufmann is a Professional Educational Therapist and Certified Executive Function Coach. He is the Co-founder of UpSkill Specialists, an online adult executive function coaching company that guides adults in overcoming disorganization, procrastination, and productivity roadblocks so they can unlock their potential. He is also the founder of Elevate Learning Solutions, an Educational Therapy practice located in San Clemente, CA, that supports neurodivergent students in becoming independent and confident.