How I learned to beat imposter syndrome

Self-doubt is common in our professional lives, but for Aliyah Akhtar CMgr MCMI, her imposter syndrome left her at the point of burnout and exhaustion.

Despite being a high achiever and earning the respect of her colleagues, the service manager at Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Trust describes moments of feeling like a fraud, which knocked her confidence at work.

But becoming a Chartered Manager, among her many academic achievements, helped her appreciate her own success.

“Having the accolade supported the belief that I am good enough,” she says. “If I can receive the highest merit in management, then why wouldn’t I be good enough? It’s about challenging those negative thoughts.

• Deep dive: Imposter syndrome, self-doubt and how to overcome it

“It’s allowed me not just to reflect, but also to critically evaluate my management and leadership style and develop the skills to deal with imposter syndrome.”

“Am I making sense?”

Aliyah, who was nominated for this year’s CMI Chartered Manager of the Year award, completed a Diploma in nursing 2013 and worked as an NHS mental health nurse before being given the opportunity to move into management in 2016. 

With the support of her organisation she completed a Level 5 Operations/Departmental Manager apprenticeship and became a Chartered Manager in 2020.