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Imposter No More: Overcome Self-Doubt and Imposterism to Cultivate a Successful Career
A personal and professional guide to the latest research on imposterism and psychological flexibility, IMPOSTER NO MORE is the professional’s handbook to combating “impostor syndrome” and overcoming self-doubt to achieve career success.
Dr. Jill Stoddard is a recovered imposter. For years, she was convinced that the only reason she was accepted into a competitive grad school program was because her father knew the program director. Dr. Stoddard isn't alone in deep down, the majority of successful people question their professional legitimacy a good amount of the time.
Why do we do this, and how can we stop? Although she's in recovery, Dr. Stoddard still struggles with feelings of imposterism. She works through them with psychological flexibility, the ability to be present with all thoughts, emotions, physical sensations, and urges, fully and without defense, while making conscious, deliberate choices based on what deeply matters to a person. Essentially, we're not attempting to change the substance of the thoughts and feelings that naturally occur to us; instead, we change the way we relate to those thoughts and feelings, so we aren't caught up in constant battle to control them.
Throughout Imposter No More , Dr. Stoddard lays the groundwork for understanding the imposter phenomenon; she outlines the traps professionals often fall into regarding their imposter feelings, and provides actionable steps for cultivating psychological flexibility to be able to choose bold career moves despite self-doubt and imposterism.
Dr. Jill Stoddard is a recovered imposter. For years, she was convinced that the only reason she was accepted into a competitive grad school program was because her father knew the program director. Dr. Stoddard isn't alone in deep down, the majority of successful people question their professional legitimacy a good amount of the time.
Why do we do this, and how can we stop? Although she's in recovery, Dr. Stoddard still struggles with feelings of imposterism. She works through them with psychological flexibility, the ability to be present with all thoughts, emotions, physical sensations, and urges, fully and without defense, while making conscious, deliberate choices based on what deeply matters to a person. Essentially, we're not attempting to change the substance of the thoughts and feelings that naturally occur to us; instead, we change the way we relate to those thoughts and feelings, so we aren't caught up in constant battle to control them.
Throughout Imposter No More , Dr. Stoddard lays the groundwork for understanding the imposter phenomenon; she outlines the traps professionals often fall into regarding their imposter feelings, and provides actionable steps for cultivating psychological flexibility to be able to choose bold career moves despite self-doubt and imposterism.
272 pages, Hardcover
Published September 19, 2023
43 people are currently reading
2220 people want to read
About the author
Jill A. Stoddard
6 books61 followersJill Stoddard is passionate about sharing science-backed ideas from psychology to help people thrive. She is a psychologist, writer, TEDx speaker, award-winning teacher, peer-reviewed ACT trainer, and co-host of the popular Psychologists Off the Clock podcast. Dr. Stoddard is the author of three books: The Big Book of ACT Metaphors: A Practitioner’s Guide to Experiential Exercises and Metaphors in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy; Be Mighty: A Woman’s Guide to Liberation from Anxiety, Worry, and Stress Using Mindfulness and; and Imposter No More: Overcome Self-doubt and Imposterism to Cultivate a Successful Career. Her writing has also appeared in Psychology Today, Scary Mommy, Thrive Global, The Good Men Project, and Mindful Return. She regularly appears on podcasts and as an expert source for various media outlets. Dr. Stoddard received her PhD from Boston University in 2007. She lives in Newburyport, MA with her husband, two kids, and disobedient French Bulldog.
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October 21, 2025my mom made me read it
November 10, 2023
While this book is written specifically for people struggling with imposter syndrome, it is also applicable to anyone struggling with an active inner critic. It’s a fresh take on how we should think about imposter syndrome (or imposterism as Stoddard rebrands it), approaching the experience with compassion and curiosity rather than immediately rushing to pathologize an experience that most of us are all too familiar with. Instead of offering more of the same old advice to think more positive thoughts or to keep achieving until you no longer feel like an imposter, this book is a thorough guide to learning to relate more effectively to the inner critic who tells you all the ways you don’t measure up. Jill uses her decades of expertise as a psychologist as well as her characteristic authenticity to share cutting edge research in a way that is relatable and invigorating. Jill shares exercises that will help readers apply their new knowledge, and offers numerous examples from her own life as well as the lives of others to help readers understand concepts more deeply and to remind them that they are not alone in their experience. It is clear, concise, easy and fun to read, and is an excellent guide to understanding and practicing skills from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I cannot recommend this book highly enough. It will not only help reduce the suffering associated with imposterism, but more importantly, it will help you learn skills to engage and persist in actions that will enrich your life deeply.
January 12, 2026
Yeah, it was ok.
It’s a traditional read but it leans heavily into author-centered vulnerability. A lot of the book focuses on the author and her friends/acquaintances, their insecurities, and their personal experiences, with the idea that understanding their insecurities will help you understand your own.
The journaling pieces are optional, but the book definitely assumes you’re someone who wants to pause, reflect, and maybe write about your feelings. If you’re a journaler, I honestly think this could be a great book for you.
That approach just doesn’t work for me.
The book wasn’t emotionally heavy or draining. It just wasn’t my vibe. I can see the value, and I can see who this would really resonate with. I’m just not that reader.
It’s a traditional read but it leans heavily into author-centered vulnerability. A lot of the book focuses on the author and her friends/acquaintances, their insecurities, and their personal experiences, with the idea that understanding their insecurities will help you understand your own.
The journaling pieces are optional, but the book definitely assumes you’re someone who wants to pause, reflect, and maybe write about your feelings. If you’re a journaler, I honestly think this could be a great book for you.
That approach just doesn’t work for me.
The book wasn’t emotionally heavy or draining. It just wasn’t my vibe. I can see the value, and I can see who this would really resonate with. I’m just not that reader.
October 30, 2023
fast and interesting breakdown with legit points that don't waste your time.
April 22, 2024
Imposter syndrome is something I’ve struggled with my whole life, and when it comes to helping people like myself with this issue, I think this is a decent enough book. Jill Stoddard has a PhD, so this book has a lot of research to back up her claims. The primary tool this book discusses is mindfulness and its various practices like loving kindness. If you’re struggling with imposter syndrome as well, I think this book has some helpful tools, but I do have an issue with this book.
My major issue with this book is probably a “me” issue, but I also think it’s worth a discussion. The person writing this book comes from a place a privilege, and it sounds like many of her friends who struggle with imposter syndrome come from a similar background of wealth and connections.
She starts the book by discussing her own struggles with imposter syndrome, and a standout moment is that her father had connections to help her get into a good college. This is a source of her imposter syndrome, and if I’m being honest, it should be.
I personally don’t think we should be telling the wealthy and privileged who have lived much easier lives than most people that they shouldn’t acknowledge these things. There’s a massive issue with the price of college as well as how hard it is to get into good schools unless you have money or know someone. When we tell these privileged people, “No, you need to understand how hard you worked to get here,” it perpetuates the idea that people who didn’t have that extremely lucky, privileged path are “less than”.
A recent headline reads “None of Forbes’ billionaires under 30 are self-made for first time in 15 years”. Are you telling me all of these rich kids who benefited from nepotism should grab a copy of this book so they believe they worked hard and that’s why they are where they are?
I’m not saying wealthy or privileged people don’t work hard, but they need to accept the fact that a large portion of where they are today is due to the family they were born into. They need to understand that billions of other people on this planet aren’t that lucky, and we need to figure out a way to even the playing field. I think a healthy amount of imposter syndrome is good for all of us.
I personally came from a low-income family, had an alcoholic mother, and then became and alcoholic and drug addict myself. My life is amazing today and many people don’t make it out. although I worked hard to get where I’m at today, I understand that a lot of it has to do with factors that were completely outside of my control. It makes me grateful for what I have while also being empathetic to those who are still struggling.
Anyway, sorry for the rant. This book does have some decent tools in it.
My major issue with this book is probably a “me” issue, but I also think it’s worth a discussion. The person writing this book comes from a place a privilege, and it sounds like many of her friends who struggle with imposter syndrome come from a similar background of wealth and connections.
She starts the book by discussing her own struggles with imposter syndrome, and a standout moment is that her father had connections to help her get into a good college. This is a source of her imposter syndrome, and if I’m being honest, it should be.
I personally don’t think we should be telling the wealthy and privileged who have lived much easier lives than most people that they shouldn’t acknowledge these things. There’s a massive issue with the price of college as well as how hard it is to get into good schools unless you have money or know someone. When we tell these privileged people, “No, you need to understand how hard you worked to get here,” it perpetuates the idea that people who didn’t have that extremely lucky, privileged path are “less than”.
A recent headline reads “None of Forbes’ billionaires under 30 are self-made for first time in 15 years”. Are you telling me all of these rich kids who benefited from nepotism should grab a copy of this book so they believe they worked hard and that’s why they are where they are?
I’m not saying wealthy or privileged people don’t work hard, but they need to accept the fact that a large portion of where they are today is due to the family they were born into. They need to understand that billions of other people on this planet aren’t that lucky, and we need to figure out a way to even the playing field. I think a healthy amount of imposter syndrome is good for all of us.
I personally came from a low-income family, had an alcoholic mother, and then became and alcoholic and drug addict myself. My life is amazing today and many people don’t make it out. although I worked hard to get where I’m at today, I understand that a lot of it has to do with factors that were completely outside of my control. It makes me grateful for what I have while also being empathetic to those who are still struggling.
Anyway, sorry for the rant. This book does have some decent tools in it.
September 17, 2023
This book does does a por job of what it describes its intent to be. It is supposed to give you ways to increase confidence in yourself to set aside the anxiety of experiences. It did not do this, but instead focused a lot on what she did. The exercise she provides are superficial and silly at best and do nothing to help overcome anxiety. For as much as she claims she feels like an imposter herslef, she sure comes across as a know it all whi thinks very higly of herself. She discounts the position others may be coming from going so far as to say that if you are white cis-gendred males than you have nothing that would cause these concerns.
On top of everything else, she makes a big deal about her political leanings in the book. If I wanted a political book, I would have requested one by a political author. Every time she injected these ideals, they had nothing to do with her point but were more like taking an opportunity to jab at people of the other party. Save youself the money and time, there are so many better authors on this topic.
On top of everything else, she makes a big deal about her political leanings in the book. If I wanted a political book, I would have requested one by a political author. Every time she injected these ideals, they had nothing to do with her point but were more like taking an opportunity to jab at people of the other party. Save youself the money and time, there are so many better authors on this topic.
May 27, 2024
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.
Imposter No More: Overcome Self-Doubt and Imposterism to Cultivate a Successful Career by Jill, PhD Stoddard is a compelling exploration of the pervasive phenomenon of imposter syndrome, particularly as it manifests in professional environments. Dr. Stoddard, with her rich background in psychology, delves into the intricacies of self-doubt and the imposter experience with a blend of personal anecdotes and robust, research-backed strategies.
The book is structured to first lay a foundation of understanding around what imposter syndrome is and why it’s so common among successful individuals. Stoddard’s own journey from feeling like an imposter to recognizing and overcoming those feelings provides a relatable narrative that many will find inspiring. Her candid sharing of personal struggles adds a layer of authenticity that elevates this work from a mere self-help guide to a heartfelt companion on the reader’s journey to self-acceptance.
This concept is not about changing the substance of our thoughts and feelings but changing our relationship with them. It’s a refreshing take that moves away from the often simplistic ‘positive thinking’ approach to a more nuanced, realistic method of dealing with self-doubt.
Dr. Stoddard provides actionable steps for readers to cultivate this psychological flexibility, allowing them to make bold career moves despite the nagging voice of imposter syndrome The book is filled with exercises and metaphors that encourage readers to engage with their thoughts and feelings in a non-confrontational way, fostering a sense of empowerment and control.
In essence, Imposter No More is a beacon of hope for those who feel shackled by their self-doubt. It’s a testament to the fact that imposter feelings are universal, yet they don’t have to define our professional lives. With its engaging prose, relatable stories, and practical advice, this book is a valuable resource for anyone looking to overcome the internal barriers to their success.
As a book reviewer who values creativity and critical analysis, I appreciate the innovative approach Dr. Stoddard takes in addressing a topic that has become a buzzword in recent times. Her book is a movement towards embracing our vulnerabilities and transforming them into strengths. It’s a must-read for anyone ready to step out of the shadows of doubt and into the light of their true potential.
Imposter No More: Overcome Self-Doubt and Imposterism to Cultivate a Successful Career by Jill, PhD Stoddard is a compelling exploration of the pervasive phenomenon of imposter syndrome, particularly as it manifests in professional environments. Dr. Stoddard, with her rich background in psychology, delves into the intricacies of self-doubt and the imposter experience with a blend of personal anecdotes and robust, research-backed strategies.
The book is structured to first lay a foundation of understanding around what imposter syndrome is and why it’s so common among successful individuals. Stoddard’s own journey from feeling like an imposter to recognizing and overcoming those feelings provides a relatable narrative that many will find inspiring. Her candid sharing of personal struggles adds a layer of authenticity that elevates this work from a mere self-help guide to a heartfelt companion on the reader’s journey to self-acceptance.
This concept is not about changing the substance of our thoughts and feelings but changing our relationship with them. It’s a refreshing take that moves away from the often simplistic ‘positive thinking’ approach to a more nuanced, realistic method of dealing with self-doubt.
Dr. Stoddard provides actionable steps for readers to cultivate this psychological flexibility, allowing them to make bold career moves despite the nagging voice of imposter syndrome The book is filled with exercises and metaphors that encourage readers to engage with their thoughts and feelings in a non-confrontational way, fostering a sense of empowerment and control.
In essence, Imposter No More is a beacon of hope for those who feel shackled by their self-doubt. It’s a testament to the fact that imposter feelings are universal, yet they don’t have to define our professional lives. With its engaging prose, relatable stories, and practical advice, this book is a valuable resource for anyone looking to overcome the internal barriers to their success.
As a book reviewer who values creativity and critical analysis, I appreciate the innovative approach Dr. Stoddard takes in addressing a topic that has become a buzzword in recent times. Her book is a movement towards embracing our vulnerabilities and transforming them into strengths. It’s a must-read for anyone ready to step out of the shadows of doubt and into the light of their true potential.
September 13, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC.
Dr. Jill Stoddard, an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy trainer and self-proclaimed recovering imposter, writes a guide for professionals in order to contend with imposter syndrome. She outlines this using personal experience in addition to giving real-life examples either with professionals in her field or otherwise. Stoddard explains why we suffer from imposter syndrome and provides exercises that can help ease those feeling like frauds.
I thought this would be like every other book that I read, containing more explanation and less practice and application. I was pleasantly surprised that this was not the case. I feel that Stoddard gave very important information surrounding imposter syndrome in order to understand why we think this way and ways to be introspective so that we can feel empowered to fulfill dreams and live by our values. I loved how relatable Stoddard was, even stating that she still suffers from imposter syndrome. Explaining a concept that she still suffers from takes a great amount of courage and vulnerability that is extremely commendable. It was great that Stoddard also tied imposter syndrome to other mental illnesses, such as anxiety and depression.
Personally, I have suffered from imposter syndrome for as long as I can remember and didn't realize it. I have definitely felt it more intensely in the last five years due to many changes in my life professionally and personally, and can definitely beat myself up and talk myself down to fulfill the goals and dreams that I have in order to achieve a level of self-actualization. I plan to take many of these concepts and try to apply them to my future actions and thoughts. Reframing is a very valuable thing when combatting imposter syndrome, that's for sure.
This is a really valuable book to have if you suffer from imposter syndrome. I think that whether you want to gain more introspection about imposter syndrome from a personal or professional sense, I would definitely pick this up!
Dr. Jill Stoddard, an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy trainer and self-proclaimed recovering imposter, writes a guide for professionals in order to contend with imposter syndrome. She outlines this using personal experience in addition to giving real-life examples either with professionals in her field or otherwise. Stoddard explains why we suffer from imposter syndrome and provides exercises that can help ease those feeling like frauds.
I thought this would be like every other book that I read, containing more explanation and less practice and application. I was pleasantly surprised that this was not the case. I feel that Stoddard gave very important information surrounding imposter syndrome in order to understand why we think this way and ways to be introspective so that we can feel empowered to fulfill dreams and live by our values. I loved how relatable Stoddard was, even stating that she still suffers from imposter syndrome. Explaining a concept that she still suffers from takes a great amount of courage and vulnerability that is extremely commendable. It was great that Stoddard also tied imposter syndrome to other mental illnesses, such as anxiety and depression.
Personally, I have suffered from imposter syndrome for as long as I can remember and didn't realize it. I have definitely felt it more intensely in the last five years due to many changes in my life professionally and personally, and can definitely beat myself up and talk myself down to fulfill the goals and dreams that I have in order to achieve a level of self-actualization. I plan to take many of these concepts and try to apply them to my future actions and thoughts. Reframing is a very valuable thing when combatting imposter syndrome, that's for sure.
This is a really valuable book to have if you suffer from imposter syndrome. I think that whether you want to gain more introspection about imposter syndrome from a personal or professional sense, I would definitely pick this up!
September 14, 2024
Working to become the fully realized (key word REAL) person you are (even if you don’t believe it).
Imposter No More: Overcome Self-doubt and Imposterism to Cultivate a Successful Career by Jill A. Stoddard is a good look at the history and nature of imposter syndrome.
This will open your eyes to the insidious nature of imposter syndrome, including how for some cultures it’s the rule rather than the exception.
Even though different “types” may have nice names (the natural genius, the superhuman), they are still in a cyclical period of self hate and doubt…with a nice flow chart of different types of behavior that I recognized either in myself or others.
After covering the syndrome in decent (not exhaustive) detail, the author presents methods of combat it. Some deal with self-care, expanding your emotion or physical limits for dealing with stuff, even situational awareness and examples of how we avoid social obligations.
One particularly grim chapter (trying to help in a positive way) presented a workshop on how we might be remembered or spoken of after we are gone…by writing an example epitaph. It helps you think about your mark on the world and those you love and how you might change it…or at least improve things.
It’s some pretty heavy material offered in a light hearted way, so it’s a bit of a downer at times…and that’s a good thing…because you a tree ntly likely to get better until you acknowledge how much you feel like you aren’t “real”.
Imposter No More: Overcome Self-doubt and Imposterism to Cultivate a Successful Career by Jill A. Stoddard is a good look at the history and nature of imposter syndrome.
This will open your eyes to the insidious nature of imposter syndrome, including how for some cultures it’s the rule rather than the exception.
Even though different “types” may have nice names (the natural genius, the superhuman), they are still in a cyclical period of self hate and doubt…with a nice flow chart of different types of behavior that I recognized either in myself or others.
After covering the syndrome in decent (not exhaustive) detail, the author presents methods of combat it. Some deal with self-care, expanding your emotion or physical limits for dealing with stuff, even situational awareness and examples of how we avoid social obligations.
One particularly grim chapter (trying to help in a positive way) presented a workshop on how we might be remembered or spoken of after we are gone…by writing an example epitaph. It helps you think about your mark on the world and those you love and how you might change it…or at least improve things.
It’s some pretty heavy material offered in a light hearted way, so it’s a bit of a downer at times…and that’s a good thing…because you a tree ntly likely to get better until you acknowledge how much you feel like you aren’t “real”.
September 14, 2024
Working to become the fully realized (key word REAL) person you are (even if you don’t believe it).
Imposter No More: Overcome Self-doubt and Imposterism to Cultivate a Successful Career by Jill A. Stoddard is a good look at the history and nature of imposter syndrome.
This will open your eyes to the insidious nature of imposter syndrome, including how for some cultures it’s the rule rather than the exception.
Even though different “types” may have nice names (the natural genius, the superhuman), they are still in a cyclical period of self hate and doubt…with a nice flow chart of different types of behavior that I recognized either in myself or others.
After covering the syndrome in decent (not exhaustive) detail, the author presents methods of combat it. Some deal with self-care, expanding your emotion or physical limits for dealing with stuff, even situational awareness and examples of how we avoid social obligations.
One particularly grim chapter (trying to help in a positive way) presented a workshop on how we might be remembered or spoken of after we are gone…by writing an example epitaph. It helps you think about your mark on the world and those you love and how you might change it…or at least improve things.
It’s some pretty heavy material offered in a light hearted way, so it’s a bit of a downer at times…and that’s a good thing…because you a tree ntly likely to get better until you acknowledge how much you feel like you aren’t “real”.
Imposter No More: Overcome Self-doubt and Imposterism to Cultivate a Successful Career by Jill A. Stoddard is a good look at the history and nature of imposter syndrome.
This will open your eyes to the insidious nature of imposter syndrome, including how for some cultures it’s the rule rather than the exception.
Even though different “types” may have nice names (the natural genius, the superhuman), they are still in a cyclical period of self hate and doubt…with a nice flow chart of different types of behavior that I recognized either in myself or others.
After covering the syndrome in decent (not exhaustive) detail, the author presents methods of combat it. Some deal with self-care, expanding your emotion or physical limits for dealing with stuff, even situational awareness and examples of how we avoid social obligations.
One particularly grim chapter (trying to help in a positive way) presented a workshop on how we might be remembered or spoken of after we are gone…by writing an example epitaph. It helps you think about your mark on the world and those you love and how you might change it…or at least improve things.
It’s some pretty heavy material offered in a light hearted way, so it’s a bit of a downer at times…and that’s a good thing…because you a tree ntly likely to get better until you acknowledge how much you feel like you aren’t “real”.
November 25, 2023
I highly recommend Imposter No More by Dr. Jill Stoddard if you have ever had feeling of imposter phenomenon and/or if you help those who do. I enjoyed the author’s humility and authenticity when sharing her story. She shares many useful methods to examine your thoughts and to reprogram your ideas around Imposter Phenomenon. I look forward to delving more into this important resource.
Each chapter ends with a useful summary and exercises to complete. I still plan to go back through the book to make sure I implement the exercises and useful ideas. However, I didn’t want to hold off my review until I finished that task. I know after reading it once that this book holds life changing information. I have already started sharing some of this knowledge and recommending this book to clients and colleagues.
Spoiler alert: imposter phenomenon is not something you will be done with one day. It takes intention to challenge these self-defeating thoughts but with practice and knowledge of our why, they can be “managed.”
Each chapter ends with a useful summary and exercises to complete. I still plan to go back through the book to make sure I implement the exercises and useful ideas. However, I didn’t want to hold off my review until I finished that task. I know after reading it once that this book holds life changing information. I have already started sharing some of this knowledge and recommending this book to clients and colleagues.
Spoiler alert: imposter phenomenon is not something you will be done with one day. It takes intention to challenge these self-defeating thoughts but with practice and knowledge of our why, they can be “managed.”
November 5, 2023
This was my first “self-help” book and I know they’re meant for self reflection and homework assignments, but sometimes it just felt like too much.
I did learn a lot about myself and some different ways of thinking when I’m experiencing imposter thoughts (which is super often lately), but other options that were provided were like “deep breaths,” and I’m just not sure that’s it for me.
I will fully admit that I wasn’t 100% invested in this book, which probably led to my review and rating. However the middle and end felt more like “here’s 400 examples on how other people had these experiences and their background and their successes, it just felt repetitive and I’ll be honest, I skimmed…
Overall, I’m giving this one a 3 star rating because I KNOW that I wasn’t fully invested and that shouldn’t entirely reflect my rating of this book.
I did learn a lot about myself and some different ways of thinking when I’m experiencing imposter thoughts (which is super often lately), but other options that were provided were like “deep breaths,” and I’m just not sure that’s it for me.
I will fully admit that I wasn’t 100% invested in this book, which probably led to my review and rating. However the middle and end felt more like “here’s 400 examples on how other people had these experiences and their background and their successes, it just felt repetitive and I’ll be honest, I skimmed…
Overall, I’m giving this one a 3 star rating because I KNOW that I wasn’t fully invested and that shouldn’t entirely reflect my rating of this book.
November 20, 2023
When people get into a competitive school program or get the promotion they’ve always wanted, a common problem they have is imposter syndrome. How do professionals combat this and realize their worth? As a recovered imposter and psychologist, Dr. Stoddard gives practical tips, advice, exercises, and personal experiences to help readers start on their journey to recovering form imposter syndrome.
Very well done and easy to follow, this guide is clear, concise and usable. The tips, exercises, and experiences helps readers to understand their own imposter syndrome feelings and how to cope with them. Readers who enjoy non-fiction, psychology, and self-help books will want to pick this one up.
Please Note: A copy of this book was given in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are our own. No other compensation was received.
Very well done and easy to follow, this guide is clear, concise and usable. The tips, exercises, and experiences helps readers to understand their own imposter syndrome feelings and how to cope with them. Readers who enjoy non-fiction, psychology, and self-help books will want to pick this one up.
Please Note: A copy of this book was given in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are our own. No other compensation was received.
January 14, 2024
Let me first start off that I fall right in the middle of the political spectrum, so it was disappointing that this is just another book for an author to get their political views across. Let me add, this author is as far left as you can get. The first 20 pages or say are about her dad being a “WHMP”, yeah look that one up, and also her converting him to a feminist.
It also goes into the normal buzzwords all far left people use (nothing new here) so I made it to about page 20 before stopping and actually returning the book.
What’s funny is even in the first 20 pages there are contradictions with research and if you do your own, then you won’t come to the same conclusions.
I wish it was required for authors to state on the cover if their political views would be thrown at you (either side).
It also goes into the normal buzzwords all far left people use (nothing new here) so I made it to about page 20 before stopping and actually returning the book.
What’s funny is even in the first 20 pages there are contradictions with research and if you do your own, then you won’t come to the same conclusions.
I wish it was required for authors to state on the cover if their political views would be thrown at you (either side).
July 24, 2024
Thought it was a good book with good concepts but lacked a lot of clinical evidence. I was looking foreword to hearing more about her research than I was her life’s story. I feel like if I were to read this book again I would start in the second half of the book as it covers a lot more of her clients stories. A few points I liked were; overcoming imposter systems happens when you live within your values as well as acknowledging what is and what is not in your control. I loved how she changed the verb from compassionate to compassion it, as when someone’s values are to show that compassion, they have to often do so regardless of the situation. I also liked how she points out that self compassion can still incorporate self accountability.
September 20, 2023
You can be incredibly successful and still struggle with a loud imposter voice. Most people think the work is to eradicate that voice. But Stoddard's wise, often funny book, suggests otherwise. Drawing on science and powerful stories--her own, her patients', and many fascinating interviews--she teaches the reader how to unhook from unhelpful thoughts and connect with values and action that line up with the kind of person you most want to be. This book is a powerful read for those of us who long for a better way to deal with the nagging self-doubt. A powerful and inspiring read.
October 28, 2023
"Imposter No More" is written in a style that is extremely accessible, yet backed by science of psychotherapy and human change. Jill has a way of writing that is just so human and relatable- there is so much here to help understand why we are so self-critical and how to not let that hold us back from the life we want. There are many useful, concrete strategies to take away from this book and I highly recommend from anyone who feels as if their self-doubt or self-criticism holds them back in life.
February 22, 2025
This book wasn't what I expected and I likely would have retained it better if I'd had a written copy and treated it like a text book. That being said, I valued the themes and discussions.
A copy of my notes are pasted below, not because this is the ideal location, but rather because I want to be able to assess them later on.
IS prevalent for marginalized groups
WHMP (white heterosexual male of privilege) are some of rare group who are self-aware but don't experience imposter syndrome
Journal:
Q: What are some of your own experiences of imposterism? What situations trigger it? How have I been marginalized and how might that influence it?
A: I experience imposterism through my lack of technical application knowledge. I'm a great test taker, but don't necessarily know the "why" of things to be able to have a gut assessment of something in the EE space. Through work, I repeatedly hear folks talk about tech that they work in and presume they know it off the cuff. Instead of refining my RF awareness, I lean towards organization and leadership, which is talked of with condescension and belittlement by male engineers in defense.
Perfectionist imposters: don't delegate, take less risks, stay within their bubble
Super human imposture: do it all (work, social, pets, house, parenting).
I want to have everything perfect, but then don't have time for myself, so when I pause to take a rest, all I see is the imperfections in my work. (Dirty windows, unsorted toys, broken S&D sheet, Zoey not going on walks, etc. )
Practice being mindful - slow down and be aware without judgement. When judgement happens, let pass by and refocus. No judgement on that, just accept and move on.
Practice being uncomfortable with the 5 senses, then with emotions. The skill you want to grow is an ability to be less swayed and resistant to being uncomfortable. Accept the discomfort, and this can enable you to drive towards your values.
A copy of my notes are pasted below, not because this is the ideal location, but rather because I want to be able to assess them later on.
IS prevalent for marginalized groups
WHMP (white heterosexual male of privilege) are some of rare group who are self-aware but don't experience imposter syndrome
Journal:
Q: What are some of your own experiences of imposterism? What situations trigger it? How have I been marginalized and how might that influence it?
A: I experience imposterism through my lack of technical application knowledge. I'm a great test taker, but don't necessarily know the "why" of things to be able to have a gut assessment of something in the EE space. Through work, I repeatedly hear folks talk about tech that they work in and presume they know it off the cuff. Instead of refining my RF awareness, I lean towards organization and leadership, which is talked of with condescension and belittlement by male engineers in defense.
Perfectionist imposters: don't delegate, take less risks, stay within their bubble
Super human imposture: do it all (work, social, pets, house, parenting).
I want to have everything perfect, but then don't have time for myself, so when I pause to take a rest, all I see is the imperfections in my work. (Dirty windows, unsorted toys, broken S&D sheet, Zoey not going on walks, etc. )
Practice being mindful - slow down and be aware without judgement. When judgement happens, let pass by and refocus. No judgement on that, just accept and move on.
Practice being uncomfortable with the 5 senses, then with emotions. The skill you want to grow is an ability to be less swayed and resistant to being uncomfortable. Accept the discomfort, and this can enable you to drive towards your values.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 14, 2025
Thank you, Netgalley, for the opportunity to this this title in exchange for my honest review. I was late to read this as I felt I needed the correct time in my life to get into it - this was that time. It is comforting to know imposturism is experienced by many, when for a while, I felt really alone. Jill not only gave sound advice in moving forward while still overcoming these feelings, but she also included exercises of reflection at the end of each chapter. If you're feeling like a fraud or just stuck in your career, I'd recommend reading this book.
August 31, 2024
If you struggle with self-doubt and hurtful thoughts that weigh you down and keep you from achieving greatness, read this book! It will provide tools for growth and moving forward. I truly enjoyed the tools provided, and I will use and share them with others. Thank you! I'll be reading more by this author in the future.
November 17, 2024
This is an absolute essential read! So many of us are limited by our own imposter syndrome, and Dr. Jill Stoddard writes it out both compassionately and strategically letting us know what we can do to live full lives. What’s more, it is so much fun to read while we are learning superb and well-researched strategies! It would make a great gift for the holidays!
August 4, 2023
I enjoyed this book,especially the discussion of experiential avoidance and choosing to move towards values. Before I’d even finished it, I sent it to my therapist because we talk about imposter syndrome often.
October 15, 2023
I enjoyed this book. The author spoke in a down-to-earth manner. She has certainly given me a new perspective on how to deal with imposter phenomenon. This book was by turn a fun and educational read. I give this book a big thumbs up!
July 19, 2025
For this being maybe only my 2nd or 3rd self help type of book I really enjoyed it. It felt very relatable and not fake. I was also very connected with all of her sayings and could see how I do that in my everyday life and ways I can improve.
August 26, 2025
Godna uwagi pozycja, napisana świetnym, prostym językiem. Dotyczy zjawiska, z którym mierzy się większość z nas: naszego wewnętrznego krytyka, który mówi nam, że nie zasługujemy na to co osiągamy. Polecam!
October 3, 2023
As a young professional, I found the insights really helpful in overcoming imposter syndrome.
December 25, 2023
***I received a free ARC of this e-book from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.***
July 21, 2024
so good ❤️ I needed this
May 14, 2025
Lots of Brene Brown, Dweck and Kubler Ross, which to me meant she did her research. But more than all those great theorists, this is about doing it authentically and sometimes scared.
March 16, 2024
I felt seen and understood. The solutions proposed are useful and helpful!
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