Imposter Syndrome - The Silent Partner in Every Success Story

Every time I've hit a new milestone in my career - from being a Radiologist Assistant (RA), to leading multi-site APP programs, to speaking on national stages - there's been a quite voice in the back whispering:

"You don't really belong here."

This is Imposter Syndrome

It doesn't care how long you've been doing the work or how many people you've helped. It creeps in the moment your growth outpaces your comfort zone - right when you're supposed to be proud of how far you've come.

When I first became an RA, I thought the feeling would fade. It didn't. If anything, it grew louder. I'd sit in meetings surrounded by brilliant radiologists and executives, my notes color-coded, data rehearsed, and still wonder if I was the one they'd eventually realize didn't deserve a seat at the table.

Here's The Truth

The truth is, I wish someone had told me earlier that...

Imposter syndrome doesn't mean you're unqualified. It means you're evolving.

That constant questioning - am I good enough, smart enough, experienced enough - pushed me to prepare better, learn faster, and stay humble. It forced me to do my homework, to listen when others spoke, to meet opposition, remain neutral, and earn trust through action rather than assumption. Over time, I realized imposter syndrome wasn't a sign of weakness; it was my built-in accountability system. It reminded me that leadership isn't about being certain - it's about showing up anyways.

Listening with Curiosity, Not Fear

Even now, after two decades in the field, that voice still surfaces - before a presentation, before launching a new project, before sending something with my name on it...and yes, before starting this company. The difference is, I no longer try to silence it. I've learned to listen to it with curiosity, not fear.

Because sometimes, imposter syndrome isn't saying "you can't."

It's saying "this matters."

It means you really care about doing the work well. You care about representing your profession with integrity. You care about not letting people down. This is not insecurity - that's commitment.

Outgrowing The Versions

When mentoring others, especially those stepping into leadership for the first time, I tell them this, the goal isn't to eliminate imposter syndrome. The goal is to outgrow the version of yourself it once intimidated. Let it keep you honest, but don't let it hold the pen. High performers feel imposter syndrome because they're constantly stepping into unfamiliar terrain - that's what growth demands. You earned your seat at the table, not because someone gave it to you, but because you have spent years proving your value when no one was watching.

Imposter syndrome will always whisper back, but experience learns to whisper back:

"You belong here - and you've built the proof."

If you've ever felt this way stepping into a new leadership role or navigating a complex healthcare environment - you're not alone. These are the moments that shape strong leaders!

• Marcelene Forbus RPA (CBRPA), RT (R)(ARRT)