Overcoming Self-Doubt and Imposter Thoughts
Many of us experience moments of self-doubt — the quiet (or sometimes loud) inner voice that questions our abilities, achievements, or right to be where we are. For some, this can evolve into persistent imposter thoughts: the belief that success is down to luck, or that at any moment, others will "find us out."
These thoughts can be draining. They can hold us back from applying for new roles, speaking up, or stepping into leadership — even when we’re fully capable.
So how can coaching help?
One approach I use at CoreMind is Cognitive Behavioural Coaching (CBC) — a practical, structured method rooted in the same psychological principles as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), but designed for non-clinical, goal-focused settings.
Understanding the Thought Loop
According to coaching psychologist Rob Willson, CBC is:
"A collaborative, goal-directed process that helps individuals identify and overcome unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviours in order to enhance performance, wellbeing, and personal effectiveness."
In the context of imposter thoughts, coaching helps you explore how your thoughts influence your emotions and actions. For example:
“I don’t belong here” → Anxiety → Holding back in meetings
“It was just luck” → Low motivation → Not applying for a promotion
These beliefs often go unquestioned. CBC gives you the tools to bring them into awareness, challenge them with evidence, and begin to reframe them more realistically.
From Thought to Choice
In coaching sessions, we might explore:
Where these thoughts originated
What evidence supports or contradicts them
What you’d say to a friend with the same belief
How your behaviour might change if you saw things differently
You’re not forced to adopt “positive thinking.” Instead, the goal is flexible thinking — giving yourself space to see the full picture and respond, rather than react.
Building Confidence from Within
You don’t have to “feel” confident all the time to act with confidence. Through coaching, you can:
Build awareness of your internal narrative
Learn strategies to ground yourself in reality
Experiment with new behaviours (even if they feel uncomfortable at first)
Develop a more compassionate, balanced view of your achievements
The shift is gradual but powerful. With consistent reflection and practice, self-doubt becomes quieter — and confidence begins to grow from a more authentic place.
If imposter thoughts are holding you back, you’re not alone. Coaching offers a space to explore those thoughts with honesty, care, and clarity — and to start writing a new inner narrative.