Flight Plan vs. Freefall - Why Leaders Face Imposter Syndrome When Pilots Don’t

Today, we’re diving into a topic that resonates with nearly every leader, no matter the level or years of experience: imposter syndrome. It’s an issue that seems to cling to leadership roles in particular, leaving many seasoned professionals questioning, “Am I truly equipped for this?”

Why today? Well, today is Halloween - a day synonymous for mask wearing. Sometimes in leadership we feel like we're wearing masks to hide our true selves from others. But we shouldn't, but we all do it....and here's why.

Interestingly, imposter syndrome is rarely found in professions like aviation or technical fields with highly specialised training paths. Take pilots, for instance. They have a structured, well-defined journey of training, certification, and operational guidelines. Pilots don’t wake up wondering if they’re qualified to fly the plane - they have the training, checklists, and clear standards of operation backing them up every step of the way.

But leadership, as you know, doesn’t come with such a checklist, and that ambiguity often opens the door to self-doubt.

Why Do Leaders Suffer from Imposter Syndrome?

1. Lack of Standardised Metrics: Unlike a pilot’s journey, leadership lacks universally measurable standards. There’s no formula for being a “perfect leader,” and the subjective nature of leadership often leaves us questioning if we’re making the right calls. We’re managing people, personalities, and evolving strategies. The absence of a clear benchmark makes self-assessment difficult.
2. The “Learn-as-You-Go” Reality: Leadership is less about what you know and more about how you adapt, motivate, and inspire. While this can be exhilarating, it also fuels self-doubt. Many of us didn’t set out to be leaders with a rigid training path, and the very organic way many rise into leadership makes the feeling of “not being qualified enough” all too familiar.
3. Responsibility Amplifies Doubt: When you’re in charge, every decision carries weight. Leaders often hold themselves to high standards, knowing their decisions impact teams, strategies, and outcomes. This responsibility can turn small missteps into personal critiques, deepening the fear that we’re not suited to the job.

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome as a Leader

Imposter syndrome is persistent, but it’s not invincible. Here are a few ways to handle those nagging doubts and harness them as strengths:

• Reframe Self-Doubt as Growth Potential: Leaders are lifelong learners by nature. Feeling inadequate sometimes doesn’t mean you’re failing; it’s often a sign of growth. When we’re stretching our abilities and stepping into unknown territory, some level of discomfort is normal. Instead of viewing self-doubt as a flaw, see it as an indicator that you’re evolving.
• Build a Leadership Framework: While leadership may not have a precise checklist, creating your own framework can help. Define what success looks like for you and your team. Establish personal metrics and realistic milestones, and celebrate progress. Building a framework allows you to measure progress and focus on achieving specific outcomes, reducing ambiguity and increasing confidence.
• Seek Mentorship and Peer Support: Connect with others who’ve walked this path. Leaders often feel they need to have all the answers, but leaning on a mentor or peer network is a sign of strength, not weakness. Sharing experiences, hearing stories, and learning from others’ mistakes can help dismantle imposter syndrome.
• Recognise Imposter Syndrome as a Universal Experience: Understanding that most leaders feel imposter syndrome is incredibly freeing. Realising you’re not alone can transform those self-doubts into shared experiences. Imposter syndrome doesn’t mean you lack competence - it’s a sign that you care deeply about doing right by your role and your team.

Remember, the very nature of leadership means making decisions in uncertain territory. Imposter syndrome is a common passenger in this journey, but it doesn’t have to take the wheel. You’ve got the insight, adaptability, and dedication to lead effectively. Keep going, and let the doubts fuel your growth - not your setbacks.