What if impostor syndrome is actually a green light?

Every time I've felt it—whether launching something new or stepping into a bigger role—it wasn’t because I wasn’t capable. It was because I was growing. Feeling like an impostor isn’t proof that you don’t belong; it’s proof that you’re moving forward.

Reframing the Fear: What If It’s a Green Light?

Let’s flip the script on some of the most common impostor syndrome thoughts:

Here’s a perspective shift: What if NOT feeling impostor syndrome is actually a warning sign? If you never feel challenged, you might be playing it too safe.

Cultural Differences in Impostor Syndrome

Interestingly, how we experience impostor syndrome may depend on our cultural context. In individualistic cultures (like the U.S. or many Western countries), success is often seen as a personal achievement, and the pressure to stand out can amplify feelings of inadequacy. Here, impostor syndrome can feel like a personal failing.

In contrast, in collectivist cultures (like many in Latin America or Asia), success is viewed not just as an individual accomplishment but as a reflection of the family or community. In these cultures, the fear of disappointing others can heighten the sense of being an impostor. You may feel like you're not just letting yourself down, but also those around you.

How we experience it may be shaped by whether we’re expected to perform for ourselves or for a wider group. Recognizing these cultural influences can help us understand our own reactions.

Confidence Isn’t the Absence of Doubt

Confidence doesn’t mean having no doubts—it means acting despite them. The most successful people didn’t wait until they felt “ready.” They started, stumbled, learned, and built confidence along the way. Next time impostor syndrome appears, ask yourself: “What if this is proof I’m on the right path?”

If you’re feeling it, take it as a green light. You’re stepping into something bigger. Instead of wondering if you belong, remind yourself: you do.