Imposter Syndrome in Business: Why You’re More Qualified Than You Think
- Karen Mills
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
September 2025
Launching and growing a psychology-based business is exciting, rewarding, and full of possibility. But alongside the opportunities, there’s a challenge that many entrepreneurs quietly face: Imposter Syndrome.
That nagging thought of “I don’t belong here” or “I’m not good enough” can shadow even the most skilled professionals. And for psychologists, therapists, and mental health practitioners stepping into entrepreneurship, these doubts can feel especially strong and debilitating.
The good news? You’re not alone and there are practical ways to move through it.
What is Imposter Syndrome?
Imposter syndrome isn’t an official psychological diagnosis, but it’s a very real experience. It’s the persistent feeling that your achievements are down to luck, timing, or other people’s generosity rather than your own ability.
People experiencing imposter syndrome often fear being “found out” as a fraud, despite having clear evidence of their skills and qualifications. The result? Doubt, overthinking, and sometimes paralysis when it comes to taking bold business steps or voicing ones professional opinion.
Why Psychologists and Entrepreneurs Feel It Strongly
For psychology professionals running businesses, imposter syndrome can feel amplified. There’s often an unspoken pressure to “know it all” because of your training and influence on people’s lives. Add in the uncertainty of running a business, wearing multiple hats, and the constant comparison to peers, and it’s no surprise the inner critic gets loud.
Common thoughts include:
“Who am I to run a business?”
“Other people are more qualified than me.”
“What if I fail and let clients down?”
What if I get laughed at.”
What if I am wrong.”
If you’ve ever felt this way, take comfort in knowing that these thoughts are not a reflection of your true capability. They’re simply a reflection of being human.
A Personal Reflection
Like many others, I’ve struggled with imposter syndrome myself. I’ve walked into rooms full of professionals and immediately felt like I didn’t belong. I’d look around and think, “Everyone here has more experience, more qualifications, more authority than me.”
At times, I stayed quiet because I felt there was no point in voicing my opinions, convinced they wouldn’t be seen as important enough.
But over time, I began opening up about these feelings in conversations with other professionals. And what I discovered was powerful: almost everyone, no matter how experienced or accomplished, has felt the same way at some point.
These honest conversations showed me that imposter syndrome isn’t a personal failing, it’s a common human experience. And talking about it openly not only eased my own self-doubt but also deepened my connections with peers who were relieved to admit they felt the same.
How Imposter Syndrome Shows Up in Business
It doesn’t always announce itself loudly. Sometimes, imposter syndrome creeps in quietly through habits like:
Perfectionism – Spending excessive time preparing, editing, or over-delivering to “prove” yourself to others.
Downplaying success – Dismissing achievements as luck rather than skill.
Avoiding opportunities – Holding back from applying for funding, collaborations, or leadership roles.
Constant comparison – Measuring yourself against others and always feeling behind.
Left unchecked, these patterns can limit growth and drain energy, leaving you feeling deflated and demotivated.
Practical Strategies to Overcome It
While imposter syndrome might never disappear completely, it can be managed and even turned into a source of strength. Here are some proven strategies:
Acknowledge it- Naming the feeling (“this is imposter syndrome talking”) instantly reduces its power.
Reframe your thoughts - Swap “I don’t belong here” with “I’m learning and growing, just like everyone else.”
Track your wins – Keep a journal of positive feedback, milestones, and proud moments. On tough days, revisit it as evidence of your ability.
Lean on your network – Share experiences with peers and mentors. You’ll quickly realise how common these feelings are and get wonderful support.
Act despite doubt – Confidence grows from action, not the other way around. Taking a small step forward builds momentum.
Don’t Forget, You Belong Here
Imposter syndrome can feel isolating, but it’s important to remember: if you’re experiencing it, you’re not alone. It’s often a sign that you’re growing.
The very act of building a psychology-based business shows courage, skill, and vision. You don’t need to be flawless to be impactful.
At the Psychology Business Incubator (PBI), we believe in the power of connection. By sharing experiences, supporting one another, and having open, honest conversations about challenges like imposter syndrome, we can normalise these feelings and grow stronger together.
So next time that inner critic whispers, remind yourself: You are more qualified than you think, you belong here.
I’m Karen Mills, (FMBPsS, CertBP), Director of Business and Strategy at the Psychology Business Incubator. I am a Registered Business Psychologist with the ABP and a Full Member of the BPS, with over 15 years’ experience in Adult Social Care. As a CQC Registered Manager in the West Midlands, I support adults with complex needs including disability, neurodivergence, mental health, and addiction. I am also the founder of KPF Services helping CQC-registered organisations with compliance, sustainability, and growth, while also lecturing in undergraduate psychology. I am passionate about service delivery and measurable outcomes. I am currently completing a PhD on dual diagnosis services (mental health and addiction) and I'm a Certified Advanced Practitioner with the Addiction Professionals network.
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