What is imposter syndrome and why do you have it?

The first step in overcoming imposter syndrome is to understand when and why it’s happening. 

So, for example, let’s say you’re scrolling through Instagram, and all you see are the “Instagram Famous” coaches. These coaches have thousands of followers, their feed is beautifully curated with impactful quotes and insightful information, and they seem so knowledgeable!

You go over to their website — it’s even better! From their freebie offer to their blog to their “About” page, it’s all perfect! You can’t help but wonder why anyone would want to work with you when these other coaches appear to be far more successful and knowledgeable!

Hint: This is when you’re experiencing a classic case of imposter syndrome.

Imposter syndrome is all too common amongst people in all sorts of careers, but especially those who are trying to build their own nutrition coaching business. In fact, it’s estimated that 70% of Americans have struggled with imposter syndrome sometime throughout their careers. It can come as a feeling of deep inadequacy, insecurity, fear, anxiety, or even feeling like nothing you do is ever enough.

It’s the feeling of, “I don’t know if I can start coaching because I don’t think I know enough yet.”

Or the fear that you’re not smart enough, or that you don’t have enough experience, or that your clients will see through you and think you’re a fraud.

Can you relate?.

Listen, we will be the first to tell you that there is nothing wrong with going through this! In fact, it’s entirely normal to experience imposter syndrome, especially if you are a new coach.

Take a moment and remind yourself of this famous Teddy Roosevelt quote: 

“Comparison is the thief of joy.” 

Imposter syndrome is just that… a strong form of comparison that is stealing your joy and holding you back from confidently working with the clients who need you!

But, as normal as this feeling is, obviously we understand that you still don’t want to be experiencing it any longer than you need to! 

Luckily, overcoming imposter syndrome isn’t as difficult as it seems. Here are a few key techniques you can use to overcome it…

5 tips to help you beat imposter syndrome for good

Acknowledge that everybody has to start somewhere

Many people want to wait to start the career of their dreams, like running their own business and becoming a nutrition coach, until they are fully confident in their knowledge and expertise. But guess what? That day might never come!

It’s courage that leads to confidence! When you courageously put yourself out there over and over again, coaching client after client, that’s what builds confidence and helps you become more successful in your business. 

Work on internalizing your successes

Celebrate even the smallest victories. Got your website done? Do a little dance! Got your first client? Maybe it’s time to pop open a bottle of champagne! 

But more than that — recognize that these successes are a result of your investment in yourself and your skills as a coach… not just a matter of luck. The more you can appreciate the work you are doing, the less likely you’ll be to compare yourself to others. 

Feel deserving of success

Sometimes imposter syndrome can occur if we don’t think we should be successful. 

Maybe you completed your certification program with a friend, and your business is taking off quicker than hers is. You’re both doing similar things, and you feel guilty that you’re getting new clients and she isn’t. 

If you have any doubts that you deserve success, consider working with a coach to get over those self-worth insecurities. The same goes for if you find yourself trying to sabotage your success, which is another common symptom of imposter syndrome!

Become aware of your wins and failures

There’s no doubt that you will have some moments of failure while building your coaching business. It’s inevitable! And, who knows, it might just help you become more successful in the long run. 

The important part of failing is learning from your mistakes and using them to your advantage. Do not let small mess-ups fuel your imposter syndrome! Let them shape you into a more knowledgeable, more experienced coach! 

Turn towards the positive

Highlight your positive thoughts and distract yourself from anything negative that comes up. Any worry, fear, or doubt should get cast aside, or you should try to focus on something else. 

Let your heart and mind rest in your accomplishments at the end of the day rather than resting in all of the worries. It will help you with not only imposter syndrome but also your stress levels!

Moving forward with confidence

Imposter syndrome is most definitely something to be aware of, especially if you are a new coach! However, with consistent practice and self-reassurance, you too can manage and overcome imposter syndrome!

Remember to use the tools above every time you feel that unwelcome twinge of comparison, and before you know it, imposter syndrome will be a distant thing of the past. Instead, you’ll experience unwavering confidence and assurance in your amazing and unique skills as a nutrition noach!

Are you looking to become a confident and credible coach? Head here to learn about our program and how we support our coaches!

Have you experienced imposter syndrome? Tell us how you handled it in the comments!