Confidence, Imposter Syndrome, and Systemic Barriers: A Reflection on Personal Growth

Building confidence and overcoming imposter syndrome are topics that resonate with many of us, but they don’t look the same for everyone. Recently, I had the opportunity to speak at an event about cultivating confidence, and one of the attendees raised an important point that has stayed with me since.

She expressed concern that discussions on confidence and women's empowerment often fail to acknowledge the added weight of systemic racism, especially for women of color and non-cis individuals. Her perspective was powerful and a reminder that while confidence-building is a journey we all share, the paths we walk are shaped by very different realities.

Understanding Imposter Syndrome

Imposter syndrome is that nagging feeling that you’re not enough, that you don’t deserve the success you’ve achieved, and that at any moment, someone is going to “find you out.” For women, especially those navigating male-dominated spaces, imposter syndrome is a common experience. But for women of color or those who don’t fit traditional societal norms, these feelings are often amplified by external forces—systemic barriers, discrimination, and the constant need to prove oneself.

The Intersection of Confidence and Systemic Barriers

While imposter syndrome is an internal struggle, it can’t be separated from the external pressures that shape it. For many marginalized individuals, the need to constantly prove themselves adds layers of complexity to the journey of building confidence. It’s not just about overcoming self-doubt—it’s also about confronting the very real systems that can reinforce those doubts.

Systemic racism, discrimination, and bias create additional hurdles, making the journey toward confidence feel even more daunting. It’s essential to recognize that personal empowerment is deeply tied to the social context in which we live.

Balancing Personal Empowerment and Systemic Change

While acknowledging systemic barriers is critical, it’s equally important to invest in our own thriving. We can recognize the challenges posed by racism and discrimination, but we must also empower ourselves to move beyond them. Confidence isn’t about ignoring these barriers—it’s about finding strength within ourselves to face them.

So, how do we do this? By recognizing that confidence is not perfection. It’s not about waiting for the world to change before we take action—it’s about taking small steps every day to trust ourselves and step into our power, even when the path is difficult.

Confidence Is Built, Not Given

The message I hope to leave with you is this: confidence is built, not given. For some of us, it will take more effort because the systems around us weren’t designed to uplift us. But that doesn’t mean we can’t build the confidence we need to thrive.

If you’ve ever felt like you don’t belong, know this: you do. The journey to confidence is ongoing, but it’s one worth taking. It’s about claiming the space you deserve and learning to trust in your abilities, regardless of the barriers you face.

If this resonates with you and you’re ready to start building your own confidence, I invite you to download my Confidence Building Workbook. It’s designed to help you identify your unique strengths, overcome self-doubt, and step into your full potential. Whether you're facing internal struggles or external challenges, this workbook offers actionable steps to cultivate the confidence you need to lead and succeed.

[Download your free Confidence Building Workbook here].

Let’s continue this conversation about confidence, empowerment, and thriving in a world that sometimes tells us otherwise. You are enough, and you deserve to feel confident in your abilities.