We are the world, and the impostor syndrome

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I can’t help but watch the making of the timeless song “We Are the World” again and again. This charity single, recorded by a supergroup in January 1985 to benefit USA for Africa, never ceases to fascinate me. The song was composed by Lionel Richie and Michael Jackson and produced by Quincy Jones.

For an oldie like me, it’s delightful to reminisce and see the greatest singers of the era coming together to dedicate their talent to raising funds for Africa. It’s almost miraculous that all these superstars collaborated without remuneration, driven purely by altruism. So, how did Quincy Jones bring together legends like Stevie Wonder, Bruce Springsteen, Billy Joel, Dionne Warwick, Kenny Rogers, and even the famously reclusive Bob Dylan, among many others?

One thing stood out while watching the production footage: many remarkable artists felt surprisingly insecure. One said, “I don’t think I can hit that high note.” Another expressed concern, “How can I perform well in a room filled with such incredible talent?”

One artist even found it impossible to sing in the presence of others and had to record his lines separately in an empty room. This made me think, “Even the greatest suffer from Impostor Syndrome.”

Have you ever heard of the term “Impostor Syndrome”?

Simply put, it’s the persistent feeling of self-doubt and inadequacy despite clear evidence of success, causing individuals to fear being exposed as “frauds.”

I can deeply relate to this. So often, I’ve invited successful business leaders to speak on stage and share their life experiences, only to find them hesitating and feeling inadequate for the task. Yet, after enormous persuasion and their reluctant agreement (perhaps out of difficulty in turning down my requests), they went on stage, performed admirably, and surprised even themselves with their outstanding results.

At some point in your career, you’ve likely felt like an impostor – like you don’t belong in the room, that you’re not qualified enough, or that sooner or later, someone will “find you out.” This feeling isn’t just common; it’s universal. Even the most successful CEOs, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders experience it. The difference? They don’t let it stop them.

There is a way to deal with this. Instead of viewing it as a weakness, we should see it as a natural step toward growth and advancement.

1. Discomfort is the price; success is the return

Discomfort is the price of growth and not a sign of inadequacy. Achieving success often requires stepping into unfamiliar territory where one might feel out of one’s element. For a more remarkable achievement, you must push through discomfort. Growth demands it.

2. “Yet” is a superpower

A powerful mindset shift can help: add the word “yet” to your self-doubts:

“I’m not good enough” becomes “I’m not good enough… yet.”

“I don’t know how to do this” becomes “I don’t know how to do this… yet.”

“I’m not ready” becomes “I’m not ready… yet.”

That one word transforms doubts into temporary obstacles, not permanent truths. It reminds you that growth is a process – you can always learn, improve and excel.

3. Your fears are almost always exaggerated

At its core, Impostor Syndrome is the fear of being exposed, of others discovering you’re not as capable as they think. But here’s the reality: people aren’t thinking about you as much as you imagine. They’re dealing with their challenges, doubts and insecurities. Instead of worrying about what others might think, redirect your energy toward improving your skills and delivering value.

4. Think and analyze

Spend some thinking time and ask yourself the following questions. Write them down and journal them.

What exactly am I afraid of? (Be specific.)

Is this fear based on reality or just an assumption?

What advice would I give to a friend who felt this way?

5. We are the world, and you are not alone

Many of the most accomplished people struggle with Impostor Syndrome. From business executives, successful entrepreneurs, seasoned trainers and speakers like myself to superstar artists recording a charity single, they admit they still feel it before significant moments, such as a big presentation, an important business deal,or a concert.

Feeling like an impostor doesn’t mean you don’t belong; it means you’re stepping into challenging territory. The key is to acknowledge that fear and then act anyway.

Impostor Syndrome never entirely goes away – but that’s perfectly fine. It shows that you care, are challenging yourself and most importantly, are growing.

Next time self-doubt creeps in, acknowledge it – but don’t let it control you. Today, you step forward, take charge, and prove to yourself that you belong. And you tell yourself: Not today, Impostor. Not today.