Imposter Syndrome: Feeling Like a Fraud After Years of Success? You’re Not Alone

Imposter syndrome—a term we often associate with newcomers in a field.

But here’s the truth: even those of us who have decades of experience can still feel like frauds.

I’ve seen this not just in clients but in myself, despite a career spent coaching others through their professional journeys.

You’d think years of expertise would automatically shut out those nagging feelings of doubt, right? Wrong.

What Is Imposter Syndrome?

Imposter syndrome is a persistent feeling of self-doubt and inadequacy, despite obvious success.

You feel like a fraud, convinced that your achievements are due to luck rather than your own ability, and that any day now, someone is going to call you out.

This isn’t a new concept. First coined in 1978 by psychologists Pauline Rose Clance and Suzanne Imes, it typically described high-achieving women.

But over time, it’s become clear this experience spans gender, age, and profession.

Surprisingly, a 2020 study from Harvard Business Review found that 82% of people experience imposter syndrome at some point in their careers, regardless of their job title or years of experience.

So why do seasoned professionals—who should, by all accounts, feel confident—still experience this?

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Imposter Syndrome for Veterans: Why It Happens

While imposter syndrome might seem like a beginner’s problem, I’ve seen it repeatedly show up in later stages of people’s careers.

But why is that?

1. High Expectations

After years in a field, there’s often an expectation that you’re at the top of your game.

The pressure to know everything increases with experience.

Suddenly, every project or presentation carries the weight of proving that you haven’t lost your edge.

No one expects you to still be learning, but that’s the catch—you always are.

This discrepancy can create a real sense of inadequacy.

2. Shifting Industries and Technologies

The world of work is changing fast.

Technology evolves, industries shift, and professionals, no matter how experienced, need to adapt.

According to a 2021 report by the World Economic Forum, 50% of all employees will need reskilling by 2025. Learning new skills can make even veterans feel like beginners again.

It’s easy to feel outpaced by younger colleagues who’ve grown up with these new technologies.

3. Comparing Ourselves to Younger Generations

The comparison trap can hit hard. If you’re in your 40s, 50s, or beyond, you might find yourself measuring your progress against younger professionals.

Their fluency with modern tools, coupled with boundless energy, can make seasoned professionals feel as though they’re lagging behind.

Yet, we tend to forget that experience is a crucial asset—and that the confidence of youth often masks a lack of real-world knowledge.

4. New Roles Bring New Insecurities

As we progress in our careers, we often take on leadership positions or transition to unfamiliar roles.

Leading a team, running a department, or navigating corporate politics can all bring out new insecurities.

No matter how well-established we are, stepping into a new role can feel like walking a tightrope without a net.

The Emotional Impact of Later-Stage Imposter Syndrome

For seasoned professionals, imposter syndrome can trigger intense emotions.

I’ve worked with executives and managers who, despite outward success, feel like they’re on the verge of being “found out.”

These feelings can lead to anxiety, stress, and burnout.

In fact, the American Institute of Stress notes that workplace stress costs U.S. businesses over $300 billion annually in lost productivity.

The constant need to prove oneself can take a toll on mental health, leaving people feeling drained and disengaged.

How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome as a Veteran

The good news is that imposter syndrome, while persistent, is manageable.

Here are some strategies I’ve used both personally and with clients to move past those feelings of inadequacy.

1. Acknowledge the Feeling

The first step is recognizing that imposter syndrome is normal.

Whether you’ve been in your industry for two years or twenty, these feelings can pop up.

It’s not a reflection of your actual ability. Remind yourself that even industry leaders deal with this.

A well-known example is Sheryl Sandberg, COO of Facebook, who has admitted to feeling like a fraud despite her incredible success.

2. Document Your Achievements

When you’ve been in the game for a while, it’s easy to forget the journey.

I often encourage my clients to keep a running list of accomplishments.

This could be a portfolio of completed projects, a notebook of client testimonials, or a personal diary of challenges overcome.

When the doubts creep in, having a tangible reminder of your success can be grounding.

3. Seek Peer Support

Sometimes, all it takes is a conversation with a peer to realize that you’re not alone.

Join a mastermind group or network with others in your field who are in a similar stage of their career.

These support networks provide perspective, advice, and a safe space to share your doubts.

Psychological Science highlights that peer support can significantly reduce stress and improve self-perception.

4. Embrace Lifelong Learning

One of the great things about being further along in your career is that you’re aware of the gaps in your knowledge.

Rather than shying away from these, embrace them. Stay curious and open to learning.

Not only does this keep you sharp, but it also reframes imposter syndrome.

Instead of seeing it as a deficiency, it becomes a natural part of growth.

5. Talk to a Mentor

Mentors aren’t just for the early years of your career.

They can be invaluable at any stage. Talking to someone who’s been where you are and come out the other side can provide reassurance and practical advice. Plus, mentors often help you see your strengths more clearly than you can yourself.

The Role of Organizations in Addressing Imposter Syndrome

It’s not just up to individuals to combat imposter syndrome—organizations have a role to play, too.

In my work with companies, I’ve seen how a supportive environment can significantly reduce these feelings of inadequacy.

1. Encouraging Open Conversations

One of the most effective ways to combat imposter syndrome is through open dialogue.

Companies that foster a culture of transparency allow employees to voice their insecurities without fear of judgment.

When leaders share their own experiences with imposter syndrome, it creates an environment where these feelings are normalized.

2. Providing Ongoing Development Opportunities

Organizations can also help by offering continuous professional development.

This could be in the form of workshops, mentorship programs, or providing access to online learning platforms.

A LinkedIn Learning report showed that 94% of employees would stay at a company longer if it invested in their careers.

It is true that by promoting a culture of learning, companies can help employees at all stages feel more confident in their skills.

3. Celebrating Achievements

Recognizing and celebrating both small and large wins can counteract imposter syndrome.

When companies regularly acknowledge their employees’ achievements, it reminds them of their value. I’ve seen this strategy work wonders in creating a more positive, self-assured workforce.

Final Thoughts

Imposter syndrome at later stages of your career might feel isolating, but trust me—you’re not alone.

In my experience, whether you’re a fresh graduate or a seasoned executive, those feelings of “not being enough” can sneak up on anyone.

But here’s the thing: they don’t define you. Your career, your expertise, and the value you bring to the table speak for themselves.

The key is to recognize imposter syndrome for what it is—just a feeling, not a fact. Surround yourself with a strong support system, continually document your successes, and never stop learning.

And remember, even if you feel like an imposter sometimes, you’ve earned your place.

Keep pushing forward.