Fraud Alert! (Just Kidding—You’re Actually Brilliant)

Imposter syndrome. That nagging voice in your head whispering, “You have no idea what you’re doing. Any minute now, someone’s going to call you out.” Sound familiar? If you’re a lawyer, I’d bet your last billable hour that you’ve felt it at some point.

Here’s the twist: imposter syndrome doesn’t strike the incompetent. SAY IT WITH ME! Nope—it’s most common among high achievers. So congratulations! Your self-doubt is actually a sign that you care, that you’re pushing yourself, and that you hold yourself to an unreasonably high standard.

Now, instead of letting it hold you back, let’s flip the script and learn how to embrace it—because that little voice doesn’t have to run the show. (It is your voice, after all! )

Why Lawyers Are Prime Targets for Imposter Syndrome

1. The Bar Is (Ridiculously) High – You work in a field where perfection is expected, mistakes are magnified, and “good enough” feels like failure. No wonder you feel like you’re falling short.

2. The Comparison Trap – You’re surrounded by razor-sharp colleagues, LinkedIn superstars, and that one partner who seems to have it all figured out (spoiler: they really don’t).

3. The “Should” Problem – “I should know this.” “I should be more confident.” “I should be further along.” Says who? Probably just you.

How to Make Imposter Syndrome Work for You

1. Recognize It for What It Is

Imposter syndrome isn’t proof that you’re a fraud—it’s proof that you’re human. Your brain is wired to overanalyze, so take that as a sign of intelligence, not incompetence.

2. Own Your Wins (Yes, Even the Small Ones)

Lawyers tend to breeze past achievements and hyper-focus on what they haven’t done yet. Stop that! Keep a “brag file” of wins—client compliments, successful cases, moments when you nailed it. Review it when doubt creeps in.

3. Stop Comparing Your Behind-the-Scenes to Everyone Else’s Highlight Reel

That senior partner who exudes confidence? They’ve had their fair share of sleepless nights questioning their abilities. The difference? They already pushed through. Confidence isn’t the absence of doubt; it’s the decision to keep going despite it.

4. Use It as a Growth Tool

Imposter syndrome often points to areas where you want to improve. Instead of letting it paralyze you, use it to fuel growth. If something feels out of your depth, get curious, not self-critical. (You weren’t born with a law degree and you got through that! )

5. Reframe the Narrative

Instead of, “I don’t belong here,” try, “I’m still learning, and that’s okay.” Instead of, “I’m not as good as them,” remind yourself, “I bring a unique perspective and skill set.” Words matter—especially the ones you tell yourself.

The Takeaway

Imposter syndrome doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you’re challenging yourself. The key is not to eliminate it (wishing you luck with that) but to embrace it, acknowledge your strengths, and allow it to help you move forward.

So, next time that negative little voice pipes up, remind yourself—you’re the thinker, not the jumble of doubts in your head. Now, go do what you do best!