Breaking Through Imposter Syndrome: A Guide for Female Business Owners
Have you ever felt like you’re “faking it” in your business, even when you’re achieving success? Do you worry that one day someone will find out you’re not as capable as you seem? If so, you’re not alone.
Imposter syndrome—feeling unworthy of your success or doubting your abilities—is something that many female business owners experience (men do too I’m sure but I’ve spent the last 15 years working with women).
The truth is, imposter syndrome can hold you back from stepping into your full potential, pricing your services confidently, and attracting the clients you deserve. But here’s the good news: You can break through it and own your success with confidence.
In this guide, we’ll explore what imposter syndrome is, why it happens, and the strategies you can use to overcome it and thrive as a female entrepreneur.
What Is Imposter Syndrome?
Imposter syndrome is that nagging feeling of self-doubt, where you believe you don’t deserve your success, even when there’s clear evidence of your skills and achievements. You may think:
“I’m not qualified enough to be doing this.”
“I just got lucky.”
“What if my clients realise I don’t know what I’m doing?”
While these thoughts may feel real, they’re just stories we tell ourselves. Research shows that 70% of people experience imposter syndrome at some point in their lives—especially high-achievers, entrepreneurs, and women.
Why Female Business Owners Experience Imposter Syndrome
Women in business often face unique challenges that can fuel imposter syndrome:
Perfectionism: You feel like you need to be “flawless” to be worthy of success.
Comparison: You compare yourself to others on social media or in your industry.
Societal Expectations: Women have historically been told to “play small” or downplay their ambitions.
Stepping Outside Your Comfort Zone: Growing a business means taking risks, which can amplify self-doubt.
These factors can combine to make you question yourself, even when you’ve worked hard and earned your success.
7 Strategies to Break Through Imposter Syndrome
1. Acknowledge It
The first step to overcoming imposter syndrome is recognising it for what it is—just a pattern of thought, not a reflection of your reality. The next time you hear that inner voice saying you’re “not good enough,” stop and ask:
“Is this thought based on fact or fear?”
“What evidence do I have that proves I’m capable and qualified?”
Often, you’ll realise the voice is just fear trying to hold you back.
2. Reframe Negative Self-Talk
The way you speak to yourself matters. Turn self-doubt into self-compassion:
Instead of “I don’t know enough,” say: “I’m learning, and I bring so much value already.”
Instead of “I just got lucky,” say: “I worked hard for this, and I earned it.”
Write down 3-5 affirmations about your strengths and repeat them daily. Over time, positive self-talk can help silence the imposter voice.
3. Celebrate Your Wins—Big and Small
Imposter syndrome often causes us to minimise our accomplishments. Instead, celebrate your wins and track them regularly:
Keep a “success journal” where you write down positive feedback, achievements, and milestones.
Reflect on how far you’ve come since starting your business.
Seeing tangible proof of your success makes it harder for imposter syndrome to take hold.
4. Focus on the Impact You Make
When you doubt yourself, shift your focus to the people you help. Ask yourself:
“How has my work made a positive impact on my clients or community?”
“What transformations have my services created for others?”
TIP: Write down the answers to these questions and keep them to look at regularly. Print out a page with all of your testimonials and feedback from clients to remind yourself of the positive impact you're making. Revisit this when imposter syndrome creeps in—it’s a great way to reinforce your worth and value.
When you connect to the value you bring, it becomes easier to see yourself as the capable, inspiring business owner you truly are.
5. Do EFT/Tapping
Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), or tapping, is a powerful way to release self-doubt and calm anxiety. By tapping on specific points on your body while acknowledging your feelings or speaking affirmations, you can reduce stress and reframe limiting beliefs.
EFT has been life-changing for me! Since training in it back in 2009, I’ve used it to transform my life and business—and I love helping clients do the same. It’s especially effective for overcoming imposter syndrome, clearing self-doubt, and embracing your worth.
Try this simple EFT tapping exercise:
Identify the limiting thought (e.g., “I’m not good enough to run this business”).
Tap gently on the following points while saying the thought out loud:
Side of your hand (karate chop point)
Top of your head
Inner eyebrows
Side of the eyes
Under the eyes
Under the nose
Chin
Collarbone
Reframe the thought as you tap again: “I am enough. I bring immense value to my clients.” You can tap through the points saying this statement too.
In just a few minutes, EFT can help you feel calmer, more grounded, and confident.
6. Surround Yourself with Supportive Women
Imposter syndrome thrives in isolation. Connect with other female entrepreneurs who can relate to your experiences and lift you up.
Join business masterminds, networking groups, or mentorship programmes.
Share your struggles openly and celebrate each other’s wins.
Being surrounded by women who are also pursuing big dreams reminds you that you’re not alone and helps normalise your journey.
7. Hire a Coach
Sometimes, breaking through imposter syndrome requires external support. Hiring a coach can be one of the most powerful ways to accelerate your growth and overcome self-doubt. A coach can help you:
Identify and challenge limiting beliefs that are holding you back.
Develop a clear strategy to move your business forward with confidence.
Hold you accountable and remind you of your value when imposter syndrome creeps in.
A coach brings a fresh perspective, provides guidance, and empowers you to step into your full potential. Working with someone who believes in you—especially when you’re struggling to believe in yourself—can be incredibly transformative.
If you’re ready to break through imposter syndrome and step into your power as a female entrepreneur, I can coach you through this process. Book a free discovery call today, and let’s explore how we can work together to overcome your doubts and unlock your success.
You Deserve Success—Own It
Imposter syndrome doesn’t go away overnight, but with self-awareness and practice, you can quiet that voice of self-doubt. Remember:
You are qualified.
You are capable.
You are worthy of every success you’ve achieved.
As a female business owner, you’re already proving to yourself and the world that you can do incredible things. So take a deep breath, own your expertise, and step forward with confidence—you’ve got this.
✨ What’s one success you’re celebrating today? Share it and let yourself own that moment!
Did this guide resonate with you? Bookmark it for those moments when imposter syndrome creeps in and remind yourself that you are unstoppable.
Here's to your success - your style!
Emma x
P.S. If you’d love support to no longer let imposter syndrome hold you back, book your free discovery call now, and let’s chat about how I can help!