About Unwritten

This entry came from a reader who asked me to write about imposter syndrome. It’s fitting, because I’ve lived with it long enough to know how familiar its voice can sound.

Imposter syndrome doesn’t always shout. Sometimes it whispers. You’re not as good as they think you are. You just got lucky. One mistake and they’ll see the truth. It sneaks into the moments that should feel like wins (the job offer, the promotion, the compliment from someone you respect).. and turns them into reasons to doubt yourself.

I’ve felt it most when I’m stepping into something new. New role. New country. New project where everyone else seems to already know the rules. Instead of seeing those moments as growth, I’ve caught myself bracing for exposure, waiting for someone to call me out.

But here’s what I’ve learned: feeling like an imposter doesn’t mean you are one. It means you’re in the stretch zone, doing something that matters enough to scare you. The people who never feel it often aren’t pushing themselves at all.

I still hear that whisper sometimes. The difference is, I don’t take it at face value anymore. I let it remind me that growth feels uncomfortable and that competence isn’t the same as confidence.

So to the reader who asked: you’re not alone in this. None of us are. And if you ever feel like an imposter, maybe that’s the clearest sign you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.

P.S. Thank you for your kind words, and hope this helps!