At Old Street WorkRooms, we see incredible professionals doing profound work every day, but many still struggle quietly with the belief that they don’t truly deserve their success. Irrespective of whether you’re a solo worker, a freelancer, or part of a growing team, imposter syndrome can sneak in and take up space in your mind.
What is Imposter Syndrome?
First described in the 1970s by Psychologists Clance and Imes, the Imposter Phenomenon is a persistent internal belief that your success is undeserved, that you’re not as capable or competent as others think you are.
Even high achievers can feel like they’re “faking it.” Common symptoms include:
- Constantly second-guessing your work, even after praise.
- Dismissing success as luck or timing rather than skill.
- Fearing you’ll be “exposed”.
- Holding back ideas or avoiding new challenges.
- Experiencing burnout from overworking to prove yourself.
According to a 2022 KPMG study, 75% of female executives admitted to experiencing imposter syndrome at some point in their careers. And while it was initially thought to affect women more, recent research shows that it’s not limited by gender – anyone can feel it, from freelancers to senior executives.
These feelings can be further amplified by perfectionism, lack of feedback, social comparison, or underrepresentation in your industry or team. Additionally, a lack of feedback, limited recognition, or an unsupportive manager can make things worse!
“The greatest obstacle for me has been the voice in my head that I call my obnoxious roommate. still have a little imposter syndrome… it doesn’t go away. You just have to learn how to navigate it.”
Michelle Obama
Who Does it Affect?
Spoiler alert: everyone.
- Freelancers & solo workers: Working alone can heighten self-doubt, especially when social media paints an untrue version of success.
- Coworkers & Teams: You may look around a meeting room or coworking space and think, “They’ve got it all figured out. Why don’t I?”
- Underrepresented Professionals: When your identity or background isn’t reflected in leadership or company culture, the sense of “not belonging” can feel even more acute.
- Leaders & Managers: Yes, even CEOs feel it – imposter syndrome doesn’t disappear with a promotion!
At Old Street WorkRooms, we create spaces where businesses grow, ideas spark, and people connect. Whether you need a serviced office, a flexible coworking setup, virtual office services, or a meeting room to impress clients, our workspace solutions are designed with freelancers, startups, and small businesses in mind.
How Imposter Syndrome Impacts Your Work and Mental Health
Professionally, imposter syndrome can hold you back in several ways.
If you see a new job opening, you may avoid applying due to feeling underqualified or inexperienced; or in your current role, you may not voice a new idea out of fear your views are not valued or “not good enough” to warrant a conversation.
On a personal level, this constant worry and self-doubt can significantly impact your self-confidence and can result in feeling disconnected not just from your achievements but your colleagues, too, leading to missed opportunities.
How Can I Tackle Imposter Syndrome?
There are several ways in which you can counteract the feeling of Imposter Syndrome, which we cover below:
For Freelancers
You might not know everything, but you’re learning, and that’s more than enough. Reframe thoughts like, “I can’t charge that much,” to “My work brings real value.”
Celebrate even the small wins. Keep a running list of completed projects, client feedback, or personal milestones. Surrounding yourself with a supportive network, online or in person, will also be invaluable.
At Old Street WorkRooms, our members have access to a lovely rooftop terrace where they can unwind, socialise in style, and foster a sense of community.
For Small Teams & Growing Businesses
For small teams and growing businesses, encourage a culture where self-doubt isn’t taboo and invite open and honest conversations. Celebrate team achievements out loud and make space for people to share what they’re learning, not just what they’ve mastered!
Whether it’s a shared channel or a team huddle, reflecting on accomplishments can also build both collective and personal confidence.
For Managers and Leaders
If you’re in a leadership role, it will be important to share when you’re learning something new or facing doubts, as it will indirectly invite your team to do the same.
Leaders should also celebrate employee contributions publicly, not just outcomes and offer coaching, mentoring, and additional resources where possible.
When to Seek Support
If feelings of imposter syndrome start affecting your ability to work, connect, or make key decisions, it may be time to seek guidance. Professional support can help you counteract imposter syndrome, grow in confidence and succeed.
From freelancers setting their own pace to hybrid teams innovating from shared spaces like ours, these feelings are incredibly common. But they don’t have to define your career.
Your voice matters. Your perspective matters. And your work deserves to be seen for what it truly is: valuable!