Impostor syndrome, a psychological phenomenon that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt, despite clear evidence of competence and success. Soloist type impostor syndrome, one of the five subtypes identified by Dr. Valerie Young. It particularly affects those who see themselves as lone wolves or self-made individuals.

Lets explore the five key aspects of soloist type impostor syndrome. In order to help you better understand this often-debilitating condition and provide guidance on how to overcome it.

Soloists struggle with collaboration

Soloist type impostor syndrome often stems from the belief that true success and competence are achieved solely through individual effort. As a result, soloists may struggle with collaboration, either avoiding it altogether or feeling inadequate when they rely on others. They may believe that asking for help is a sign of weakness or incompetence. Which ultimately leads to a heightened sense of isolation and self-doubt.

Perfectionism is a common trait

Perfectionism is a common trait among those with soloist type impostor syndrome. This can manifest as setting unrealistically high standards for oneself.  Or an unwillingness to delegate tasks to others for fear of imperfect results. Perfectionism often leads to procrastination and burnout. Additionally, you may have a constant feeling of inadequacy. As well, some women may feel they are never good enough despite their accomplishments.

Soloists may undermine their achievements

Individuals with soloist type impostor syndrome often downplay or dismiss their achievements.  Attributing their success to luck, timing, or external factors rather than their abilities and hard work. As a result, it can make it difficult for soloists to accept praise or positive feedback, further reinforcing their feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt.

Soloist type impostor syndrome can impact personal relationships

The fear of being found out as a fraud (or an impostor) can make soloists anxious in their personal relationships, fearing that loved ones will discover their perceived inadequacy. This can lead to avoidance of social situations, feelings of isolation, and difficulty forming deep, meaningful connections with others.

Overcoming soloist type impostor syndrome

While soloist type impostor syndrome can be challenging to manage, there are several strategies to help overcome these negative thought patterns:

1. Develop a healthy view of failure

   
   

   Recognize that failure is just a natural part of growth and learning, and that no one is perfect. Embrace the concept of failing forward to build resilience and persistence.

   
   

2. Seek support

   
   

   Connect with others who understand and have experienced impostor syndrome. Sharing experiences and feelings can really help to normalize and validate your emotions. This makes it easier to overcome self-doubt.

   
   

3. Challenge negative beliefs

   
   

   Identify and challenge the negative beliefs that fuel your imposter syndrome. Recognize your accomplishments and strengths, and practice self-compassion. In fact, make a list in journal, notebook, or on your phone. Use the list to challenge your negative thoughts.

   
   

4. Learn to accept help

   
   

   Recognize the value of collaboration and accept that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Practice delegation and collaboration to build trust in your abilities and those of your team members.

   
   

Also read: Are You Sabotaging Your Success?  5 Steps to Stop Your Inner Critic

Significant Obstacles

Soloist type impostor syndrome can be a significant obstacle for many individuals, making it difficult to acknowledge and celebrate their achievements. By understanding the key aspects of this type of impostor syndrome and implementing strategies to overcome it, you can begin to break free from the cycle of self-doubt and embrace your authentic, capable self.

Prepared to make a move?

If you’re ready to overcome the Soloist Type Impostor Syndrome and achieve your full potential, I invite you to take action today. Start by accessing the free online Saboteur Assessment to identify your own saboteurs. I’d love to know which saboteurs you discovered, and I’m here to help you overcome them.

If you’re serious about achieving your goals and overcoming the Soloist Type Impostor Syndrome, I invite you to sign up for a 30-Minute free consultation with me. As a life coach, I specialize in helping professional Black women overcome their self-doubt and achieve their full potential. During our consultation, we’ll discuss your goals, your challenges, and how we can work together to create a plan for success.

Don’t let the Soloist Type Impostor Syndrome hold you back any longer. Take action today and start on the path to achieving your full potential.

Twanna Carter, Ph.D. is a career transition coach who specializes in empowering high achieving professional women to overcome impostor syndrome and self-doubt so that they can confidently transition into new careers. With her expertise and guidance, clients learn to communicate their unique value, honor their true purpose, and boldly pursue their dream careers.

Dr. Carter has helped hundreds of women successfully navigate career transitions, including those who have experienced the Soloist Type Impostor Syndrome. Her clients have gone on to achieve new levels of success and fulfillment, from starting their own businesses to landing dream jobs in their chosen fields.

Whether you are feeling stuck in your current career, unsure of your next steps, or struggling with self-doubt and impostor syndrome, Dr. Carter can help. Her proven approach to career transition coaching can help you gain the clarity, confidence, and empowerment you need to achieve your goals and pursue your dream career.

Here’s more on the soloist type imposter syndrome…

Curated Reads: Essential Books to Add to Your Personal Library 

1. Melaninated Magic: 180 Affirmations to Nurture Your Soul and Unleash Your Black Girl Joy by Twanna Carter, PhD
2. Sacred Rest: Recover Your Life, Renew Your Energy, Restore Your Sanity by Saundra Dalton-Smith, MD
3. I’m Not Yelling: A Black Woman’s Guide to Navigating the Workplace (Successful Black Business Women), Elizabeth Leiba.
4. Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler.
5. Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert B. Cialdini.
6. How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie.
7. Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg.
8. Dare to Lead by Brene Brown.
9. The Memo, by Minda Harts.
10. Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones, by James Clear
11. Worthy: How to Believe You Are Enough and Transform Your Life, by Jamie Kern Lima
12. 33 Tools to Remake Your Career by Paul Gabriel Dionne

Read my latest blogs…

• 
  5 Signs You’re Making Decisions Like a Pro Under Pressure
  Why Decision-Making Matters If you’ve ever had to make a major decision with everyone’s eyes on you—stakeholders, team members, or even close friends and family—you know the intensity that comes with high-pressure situations. This kind of pressure is magnified for Black executive women, who often face additional layers of scrutiny, microaggressions, and unrealistic expectations. Yet,… Read more: 5 Signs You’re Making Decisions Like a Pro Under Pressure
• 
  7 Stress Reduction Techniques Every Executive Should Know
  As a seasoned executive coach specializing in stress management for Black women in mid and senior-level careers, I’ve seen firsthand how the demands of leadership can weigh heavily. For many of my clients, the challenge isn’t just about managing tasks or people—it’s navigating systemic barriers, microaggressions, and the “Strong Black Woman” stereotype, all while trying… Read more: 7 Stress Reduction Techniques Every Executive Should Know
• 
  Why Executive Time Management Should Be a Top Priority in 2025
  Why Time Management Feels Like Your Biggest Enemy Let me paint you a picture. It’s Monday morning, and you’re already behind. Your calendar is packed back-to-back with meetings, emails are flooding your inbox, and you’ve got pressing deadlines. Somewhere in the chaos, you’ve promised to attend your child’s school event, but work demands are pulling… Read more: Why Executive Time Management Should Be a Top Priority in 2025
• 
  Manifesting Your Dream Life: Black Girl Goals for Happiness & Success
  Manifestation isn’t magic. It’s mindset and action. It’s about aligning your vision with intentional steps to turn those dreams into reality. As a busy, ambitious Black woman, you may be juggling career demands, family obligations, and personal growth goals. But let’s be real—sometimes it feels like you’re giving 110% and barely keeping your head above… Read more: Manifesting Your Dream Life: Black Girl Goals for Happiness & Success
• 
  Executives Boost Productivity with a 15-Minute Midday Reset
  Feeling drained by lunchtime? You’re not alone. Here’s how a simple 15-minute strategy can help you boost productivity, regain focus, energy, and control of your day. The Midday Slump is Real—But It Doesn’t Have to Win You know the feeling. It’s 1:00 PM, and instead of powering through your to-do list, you’re staring at your… Read more: Executives Boost Productivity with a 15-Minute Midday Reset
• 
  Overcoming Isolation and Unlocking Career Success as a Black Woman Executive
  A Moment That Changed Everything I remember one day sitting in my office, quietly working, when I overheard my boss coaching one of my white male colleagues. He wasn’t just giving casual advice; he was helping him map out his career path, offering tips, and even offering to introduce him to key people in the… Read more: Overcoming Isolation and Unlocking Career Success as a Black Woman Executive
• 
  10 Quick Stress-Busting Techniques Every Executive Should Know
  The Reality of Executive Stress As an executive, your days are filled with high-stakes decisions, back-to-back meetings, and constant pressure to deliver results. It’s no surprise that stress-busting techniques have become essential for many executive women, especially those balancing the demands of leadership with personal responsibilities. I know this struggle all too well. Years ago,… Read more: 10 Quick Stress-Busting Techniques Every Executive Should Know
• 
  Overcome Decision Paralysis: 7 Secrets for Confident Choices
  According to a survey by Oracle, 72% of people globally experienced decision paralysis. Decision-making is a core skill for any leader, but for executive women navigating high-stakes situations, the ability to overcome decision paralysis can feel like an unwelcome guest that refuses to leave. When faced with countless options, conflicting advice, or the fear of… Read more: Overcome Decision Paralysis: 7 Secrets for Confident Choices
• 
  Stress and Anxiety Tips Every Woman Leader Should Know
  Did you know that 42% of women leaders report feeling burned out, compared to about 35% of their male counterparts? Leadership is undoubtedly rewarding, but for women in executive roles, the demands of high-stakes decision-making, workplace dynamics, and personal responsibilities can lead to overwhelming stress and anxiety. The good news? Managing stress and anxiety doesn’t… Read more: Stress and Anxiety Tips Every Woman Leader Should Know
• 
  7 Danger Signs of Being Managed Out
  Have you ever felt uneasy at work, wondering if your manager or team is trying to subtly push you out? The experience of being managed out can be distressing and confusing, especially when the signs of being managed out are unclear or ambiguous. This blog will help you identify the subtle and not-so-subtle signs of… Read more: 7 Danger Signs of Being Managed Out