Imposter Syndrome
Most of us will feel it at some point. Nurses, midwives and students aren’t immune. In fact, starting out or stepping into new roles can make the feelings stronger. Imposter syndrome is that sense of not being good enough, not deserving success, or worrying you’ll be “found out” as a fraud, no matter how much you’ve achieved.
You’re not alone. Research shows it’s a common human experience, and even senior nurse and midwife leaders sometimes feel undeserving of their roles or dismiss positive feedback.
Common signs
Imposter syndrome often shows up as:
- feeling you’re not up to the job
- doubting your own skills and knowledge
- struggling to accept career success or recognition
- reduced job satisfaction
- performance changes at work
- reluctance to speak up or ask for help because of shame
- high stress levels
- burnout
- fear of both failure and success, which can hold you back from promotion, further study, or staying in the profession.
If you’re new to nursing or midwifery
Study pressure, transitioning from student to graduate, and taking on new responsibilities can all feed into self-doubt. If you’re feeling unready or overwhelmed, know this is a normal part of the journey - and we’re here to support you.
Acknowledge what you’ve achieved - that’s how you rebuild your confidence. Imposter syndrome makes you feel ‘less than,’ but the truth is you’ve studied, done your placements, submitted assessments, and completed evidence-based research. Those are real skills and real knowledge…Francis, RN
Tips for managing imposter syndrome
- Challenge negative self-talk – when critical thoughts arise, acknowledge them, breathe, and replace them with your strengths.
- Keep a journal – track your feelings, what triggers them, and how you manage them.
- Talk it out – share your concerns with a colleague, friend or family member you trust (or us).
- Engage in reflective practice – clinical supervision or debriefing helps make sense of complex emotions.
- Make time to reflect weekly – note what you’ve achieved and why you deserve your place in the profession.
Imposter Syndrome defined
A psychological experience of intense self-doubt, feelings of inadequacy, and fear of being exposed as a fraud. Despite evidence of your competence, you may believe you’ve fooled others into thinking you’re capable and worry about eventually being “found out.”
New role or new to the profession?
Changing roles, acting up, study stress, navigating the transition from student to graduate, feel you're not ready or daunted by your new on-the-job responsibilities?
We're here for you.
References
- Imposter Syndrome - are you affected by it?, by K. Goeldner, Australian College of Nursing
- Do student nurses experience Imposter Phenomenon? An international comparison of Final Year Undergraduate Nursing Students readiness for registration , by M. Christensen, 2016, Journal of Advanced Nursing
- Topics
- Anxiety
- Career stage