Imposter syndrome is one of the most pervasive yet least discussed challenges in leadership. First identified by psychologists Dr. Pauline Rose Clance and Dr. Suzanne Imes, their early research showed that even highly accomplished professionals, particularly women, often believe they are “not bright” and have somehow “fooled anyone who thinks otherwise.” Though the phenomenon affects every gender, race, and professional background, hospitality leaders featured on It’s Personal Stories affirm that the quiet fear of “not belonging” continues to shadow even the most seasoned executives.

Yet their experiences also reveal something deeper: imposter syndrome is not evidence of inadequacy. Rather, it often appears at the threshold of growth - a sign that we are stepping into larger roles, greater responsibility, and bigger opportunity. These six insights illuminate how respected leaders transform self-doubt into clarity, confidence, and forward momentum.

1. Preparation Turns Anxiety Into Strength

Terri Haack, Managing Director of Wild Dunes Resort, explains that imposter feelings often originate from internal noise, not external reality. Before speaking on a distinguished industry panel, she questioned whether she belonged among such accomplished peers. Her solution was rigorous preparation, understanding the audience, refining her message, and grounding herself in her experience. “The head noise doesn’t match the reality others see,” she reflects. Her lesson: confidence is not innate, it is built.

2. Use the Butterflies; Don’t Fear Them

Lan Elliott, Co-Founder of Acacia Hospitality and Co-Founder of It’s Personal Stories, notes that imposter syndrome doesn’t vanish with success. It simply evolves. “It never goes away, but you can use it,” she says. Elliott channels that nervous energy into discipline, mastering details so she can walk into any room fully prepared. For her, butterflies are not a warning sign but a source of momentum or motivation.

3. Acknowledge It, Then Push Through Anyway

Allison Reid, former Chief Global Growth Officer at Aimbridge Hospitality, demonstrates how universal self-doubt can be. Even before her interview, she wondered whether someone “better” should replace her. Her philosophy: acknowledge the discomfort, question whether the fear is real or imagined, and then move forward anyway. “If you’ve done the work… you belong there,” she emphasizes. Confidence often follows action—not the other way around.

4. Claim Your Place at the Table - Belonging Is Not Up for Debate

Dr. Lalia Rach, Founder of Rach Enterprises, challenges imposter thoughts with striking clarity. “You don’t have to think that you are not capable of being there. You are good enough to sit at the table… You have as much right to be there. You were asked to be there.” She rejects the idea that being different diminishes credibility: “I have to accept I am different. Big deal! It’s not for me to get over, it’s for them to get over. I have as much right, experience and knowledge to be there.” Her philosophy is rooted in authenticity, not conformity: “I don’t spend a lot of time trying to be like them. It’s impossible. But I can be confident that I should be there.” Rach reframes imposter syndrome entirely: your presence at the table is not accidental, but earned.

5. Authenticity Is the Antidote to Not Belonging

Mit Shah, Founder and CEO of Noble Investment Group, echoes this theme. Instead of trying to match an expected mold, he leans into authenticity. “Belonging isn’t about fitting in; it’s about being yourself,” he says. Shah surrounds himself with people who elevate his thinking rather than mirror it. His insight reinforces that what sets leaders apart is often what makes them most valuable.

6. Growth Often Feels Like Discomfort

Across all these leaders and in decades of psychological research, one truth is clear: imposter syndrome tends to appear at the edge of growth. It surfaces when we step into unfamiliar roles, expanded expectations, or new environments. Far from signaling inadequacy, doubt often indicates that we are evolving, stretching into the next version of ourselves.

Turning Doubt Into Forward Motion

Terri Haack shows that preparation calms the mind. Lan Elliott teaches that nerves can be fuel. Allison Reid demonstrates the power of acting despite discomfort. Dr. Lalia Rach declares that belonging is not up for negotiation. And Mit Shah affirms that authenticity is the truest foundation of confidence. These leaders reveal that imposter syndrome is not a barrier - it is a moment of becoming. Acknowledge the doubt. Trust your preparation. Embrace your identity. And step boldly into the roles you have already earned.