4 No-Fluff Strategies to Kick Imposter Syndrome (So You Can Get Back to Running Your Brilliant Business)
Let’s get this out of the way: if you’ve ever thought “who am I to do this?” welcome, you’re among friends. Imposter syndrome is basically the unwelcome party guest of self-employment, especially for women.
You finally launch your business… and immediately wonder if you’re a total fraud. Cute.
But here’s the truth: self-doubt is completely normal…even among wildly successful women. You’re not broken. You’re not failing. You’re just a human woman doing something brave.
Let’s talk about what imposter syndrome actually is…and how to stop it running the show.
What Even Is Imposter Syndrome?
Imposter syndrome is that sneaky voice in your head that says:
“You’re not really qualified.”
“They’ll find out you’re winging it.”
“This success? Pure luck.”
It’s incredibly common among female founders, especially those of us juggling business-building with parenting, caring, or trying to be everything to everyone (hi 👋).
Quick Stat:
🧠 55% of women say “lack of confidence” holds them back from starting or growing a business.
(Source: Alison Rose Review, 2023)
So no, it’s not just you.
Why Does Imposter Syndrome Hit Female Founders So Hard?
Because honestly? We’ve been conditioned to second-guess ourselves.
We don’t see enough women at the top
We’re expected to do it all, work, kids, emotional labour, the lot
We rarely hear the behind-the-scenes stories from other women doing it messy
And running a business can be isolating AF
Add it all up and boom, the inner critic takes the mic.
“I felt like I was winging it every day…even after landing my first big client.”
— Sarah, freelance mum & founder
How to Know If You’ve Got Imposter Syndrome
(Other than reading this and nodding wildly.)
You downplay your achievements (“Oh, it was just a fluke”)
You avoid opportunities because you’re scared to mess up
You over prepare or procrastinate like a pro
You secretly think everyone else has it figured out but you
If any of these hit home? Let’s fix it.
4 Strategies to Shut Down Imposter Syndrome
You don’t need to wait until you “feel ready.” You just need to feel supported. Try these:
1. Keep a “Win Log”
Every kind word, client testimonial, small win — write it down.
When your brain says “you’re not doing enough,” show it the receipts.
2. Reframe That Rude Inner Voice
Notice when you say things like “I’m not qualified.”
Now ask: “Would I say that to a friend?” No? Cool. Say this instead:
🗣️ “I’m learning. I’m growing. I’m doing the thing.”
3. Progress >>> Perfection
You’re not a robot. You’re allowed to take small, wobbly steps.
Celebrate showing up…not just smashing it.
4. Talk to Other Women Who Get It
Join communities. DM someone you admire. Or book a chat with someone who’s been where you are.
(Hint: We know someone 👇)
Why Mentorship is Magic for Confidence
Sometimes all it takes is one hour with someone who sees your brilliance before you do.
A good mentor will:
Help you spot your strengths
Share their own “I’ve cried in a Tesco car park too” stories
Give you practical advice (not fluff)
At HeyHopscotch, you’ll find amazing women who get it. From branding to business mindset, they’re here to help you go from “what am I doing?!” to “I’ve actually got this.”
You’re Not Alone, Promise
Self-doubt loves to thrive in silence. But you? You’ve already taken the first step — you’re here, reading this, nodding along. That’s huge.
Now take the next step.
💬 Book a mentor
👯♀️ Join a group
🧠 Tell your brain to sit down, you’re running the show now
“Talking to a mentor who’d been through it made all the difference. I realised I wasn’t alone—and that it’s normal to feel this way.”
— Priya, career returner & founder
TL;DR?
You’re not a fraud. You’re a founder.
Let’s get your confidence back where it belongs — front and centre.
