How I Calm My Mind When Imposter Syndrome Tries to Take Over (Because I Am Enough)


Let’s be real—imposter syndrome is a tricky one. It sneaks in when you’re trying to do something amazing and whispers in your ear, “You don’t belong here,” or worse, “You’re going to mess it up.” Sound familiar? It’s something I’ve had to deal with many times, and for the longest time, I let it get the better of me. But over the years, I’ve found a few ways to calm my mind and remind myself that I am enough, just as I am.

If this resonates with you, keep reading. Let’s chat about what’s helped me silence that self-doubt.


Step 1: Acknowledge the Noise


The first thing I’ve learnt is that trying to fight imposter syndrome is like arguing with a toddler—it only makes things worse. Instead, I’ve started acknowledging those thoughts for what they are: just thoughts. They don’t have any power unless I give them power.

When that inner critic pipes up, I literally say to myself, “Okay, I hear you, but you’re not in charge.” It sounds silly, I know, but it works.


Step 2: Reconnect with My Why

When I feel like I don’t belong, I ask myself: Why did I start this journey in the first place? Whether it’s a new project, a goal, or even just taking on something outside my comfort zone, I remind myself that I’m here for a reason.

I think back to the people I want to help, the impact I want to make, or simply the fact that I’m chasing a dream. That “why” keeps me grounded.


Step 3: Speak Kindness Over Myself

This one was a game-changer for me: positive affirmations. I used to think it was a bit cheesy, but now I see how powerful it is. When that voice of doubt gets loud, I counter it with affirmations like:

“I deserve to be here.”

“I’m capable of figuring this out.”

“My worth isn’t tied to my performance.”

Saying these things out loud feels weird at first (especially if you’ve got someone in earshot), but trust me, it helps. It’s like building up your own internal cheerleading squad.


Step 4: Celebrate the Little Wins

One of my favourite things to do is look back and celebrate how far I’ve come. I keep a little journal where I jot down my wins—big or small. It could be finishing a tough project, getting good feedback, or even just showing up on a hard day.

When I flip through those pages, it’s a tangible reminder that I’ve done hard things before and can do them again.


Step 5: Practise Being Present

When my mind is racing with what-ifs and what-will-they-thinks, I hit pause. Mindfulness has been a lifesaver for me. Sometimes it’s as simple as sitting outside with a cup of tea, taking deep breaths, and tuning into what’s around me—the birds, the sunshine, the breeze.

Other times, I use grounding techniques like focusing on my breath or naming five things I can see, hear, or feel. It’s all about pulling myself out of the spiral of overthinking and back into the moment.


Step 6: Phone a Friend

South Africans are known for being lekker supportive, and I’ve learnt that it’s okay to lean on my people when I’m struggling. Whether it’s a quick chat with a friend, a mentor, or someone in my corner, just saying, “Hey, I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed right now,” makes a huge difference.

Most of the time, they’ll remind me of what I’ve achieved and give me a fresh perspective. And let’s be honest, nothing beats hearing “You’ve got this” from someone who believes in you.


Step 7: Trust the Journey

Here’s the thing: growth is uncomfortable. Every time I step into a new space or challenge myself, imposter syndrome tries to gate-crash the party. But I’ve started to see it as a sign that I’m pushing myself in the right direction.

I don’t have to know everything or get it perfect—I just have to keep showing up and trusting the process.


A Gentle Reminder

At the end of the day, the most important lesson I’ve learnt is this: I am enough. My worth isn’t tied to how much I achieve, how perfect I am, or what others think of me. I have value just by being here, just by being me.

So, the next time imposter syndrome pops up, don’t let it take over. Acknowledge it, calm your mind, and remind yourself that you are more than enough. Because, my friend, you truly are.

Let’s keep lifting each other up—there’s space for all of us to shine.


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