When I started my master’s, I was convinced I wasn’t smart enough to be there. My classmates seemed so much more intelligent, so much more academic. Meanwhile, I felt like I had somehow slipped through the cracks—an imposter in a room full of people who actually belonged.

I thought I was pretty good at English—until I heard my peers confidently speak up in class using words that sounded like they’d just been plucked from a dictionary. Suddenly, I felt like I was playing catch-up in the world of academia. Over the first few months, I had a great internal debate on whether I should just drop out and become a professional couch potato (hey, it’s a valid career choice, right?). I decided to hang on at least until the first exam period—figured that would give me all the proof I needed that I didn’t belong.

Spoiler alert: it didn’t.

I was anxious before every exam, but to my surprise, I actually did pretty well—better than I had expected. Still, I chalked it up to luck. It wasn’t until a random class discussion where we had to get a little personal (thank you, uncomfortable assignments) that I realized I wasn’t the only one feeling like a fraud.

One classmate said, almost word-for-word, exactly what I had been thinking for months: “I don’t feel smart enough to be here.”

And just like that, something clicked.

Even the people I thought had their lives together—those who always had the best answers in class and seemed to walk around like they had life all figured out—had the same struggles. It turns out, we were all secretly battling imposter syndrome. Who knew? This feeling of doubt isn’t some exclusive club—it’s a VIP pass that many of us share, whether we’re in school, work, or even in social situations.

Why do we doubt ourselves? (Because we’re human, apparently)

Let’s talk about self-doubt. It’s like that uninvited guest who shows up at every party, eats all the chips, and doesn’t leave until the end. But why does it keep showing up? Mostly because of comparison, unrealistic expectations, and the sneaky belief that everyone else has their life perfectly curated on Instagram (spoiler: they don’t). I mean, how does everyone seem to be so put together?

But trust me, self-doubt isn’t a sign that you’re not good enough—it’s often just a sign that we care. That we’re pushing ourselves outside our comfort zone. That we’re growing.

How to kick self-doubt to the curb

1. Realize you’re not alone

Self-doubt doesn’t just show up at your door—it’s knocking on everyone’s. Even the people you think have it all figured out? They’re probably wondering if they’re good enough too. The more I opened up to others, the more I realized that everyone has their own version of self-doubt. And guess what? We don’t need to fight it alone. In fact, hearing someone else say, “I feel that way too”, was like a giant weight being lifted off my shoulders. So go ahead, grab a coffee and share your insecurities with a friend. You might be surprised by how much relief it brings. And if that feels too scary? Then hear it from me—you’re not the only one going through this.

2. Tell your inner critic (kindly but not really kindly) to shut up

Next time your brain whispers (or yells) that you’re not good enough, take a moment to hit pause. Ask yourself, Is this really true? Because more often than not, it’s just your fear talking. Here’s a little trick I learned in therapy: question your thoughts. Are they based on facts, or are they just your brain’s worst-case scenario running wild? Your inner critic loves to over-exaggerate—and guess what? It’s almost always wrong.

3. Celebrate your wins

We all love to focus on what we haven’t done yet, but it’s time to give some love to what we’ve already achieved. Nailed that exam? Celebrate. Managed to make it through a tough conversation? That’s a win. Even just showing up when you were ready to quit? Yep, you deserve a high five for that. We’re so quick to downplay our wins, but they all count. Keep track of your successes, no matter how tiny they seem—they matter, and you’re allowed to celebrate them.

4. Start the conversation

I can’t stress this enough—talk about it! Seriously, I know it can feel scary, but sharing your insecurities with others can do wonders. The moment I realized my classmates felt the same way I did, it was like a magic spell was broken. Vulnerability isn’t a weakness; it’s your superpower. Talking openly about imposter syndrome or self-doubt not only helps you feel seen, but it also connects you to others who are in the same boat.

5. Remember: you’re already here

You made it into that program, that job, that opportunity for a reason. Trust that. If you weren’t capable, you wouldn’t have gotten there in the first place. I came across this Pinterest quote once that said, “If the opportunity wasn’t meant for you, it wouldn’t have come your way.” And I am all about that mindset. When I started Tricky Twenties, I spent days wondering if anyone would even care or read my blog. But guess what? I’m here, and so are you. Don’t let doubt make you quit before you even get started.

At the end of the day, self-doubt might not magically disappear (I wish!). But here’s the thing: it doesn’t get to define you. You are enough. Always have been, always will be. So, let’s get out there and stop letting our insecurities hold us back! 💛

What’s one thing you’ve done to overcome self-doubt, or how do you keep yourself from letting it take over?