How to Combat Imposter Syndrome and Challenge the “Not Good Enough” Mindset

Ever felt like life just hit you with one disappointment after another? Maybe you found out a "friend" doesn’t actually see you the same way you see them. Maybe you got passed over for a job you really wanted—even after three or four interviews. Maybe you didn’t get into your dream college. Maybe your kids don’t want to talk to you. Or maybe your partner betrayed your trust.

Whatever it is, the result is often the same—you start questioning yourself. Maybe even questioning whether God cares. And worst of all? You start believing that you're not good enough.

The Trap of Self-Criticism

One of the toughest parts of going through setbacks isn’t just the situation itself—it’s the way we talk to ourselves about it. It’s easy to slip into a spiral of self-doubt, thinking:

💭 Maybe I’m not smart enough

.💭 Maybe I’m not lovable

.💭 Maybe I just don’t have what it takes.

This is classic imposter syndrome. That sneaky voice in your head telling you that you’re not as capable, worthy, or deserving as others might believe. But here’s the thing: that voice lies.

Your brain is wildly powerful. You’ve probably heard the saying, "Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right." The thoughts you entertain shape the way you feel. So if you let yourself stay stuck in the not good enough mindset, guess what? You’ll believe it.

How to Flip the Script

So how do you challenge self-criticism and get out of the not good enough rut? One strategy:

Build a different kind of résumé.

No, not a work résumé—one that highlights your life wins.

Grab a notebook, your phone, a napkin—whatever. Write down things you’re proud of. Big or small. Recent or from years ago. Think of:

✅ Something you worked really hard at (even if you’re not a pro).

✅ Moments where you pushed through something tough.

✅ Compliments you’ve received from people who know you well.

I’ll give you an example from my own life: My first semester of college? A total disaster. My GPA was at rock bottom, and I even got an “F.” But in my last semester? I pulled off a 4.0 GPA while double majoring. I wouldn’t call myself a genius, but I worked hard, and it paid off. That’s something I’m proud of. It would have been easy to buy into the “I am not capable of doing college” after that first semester and my only “F” ever. Good thing I didn’t. 

Shifting Your Mindset

When you’re stuck in self-doubt, it’s easy to forget all the things that make you you. But putting it on paper forces your brain to focus on what’s right about you instead of what’s “wrong.”

Still struggling to see it? Ask people who know you well. Sometimes, others can see strengths in us that we’re blind to.

Your Challenge

Here’s your challenge:📌 Make a list of things you’re proud of.📌 Write down moments where you put in the work—even if the outcome wasn’t perfect.📌 If you’re stuck, ask someone you trust what they think your strengths are.

Challenging self-criticism isn’t about ignoring struggles—it’s about reminding yourself that you are more than your failures. So start rewriting that inner dialogue. You are more than enough—you just need to remind yourself. 💡