Overcoming Imposter Syndrome After Leaving the Classroom
When I left the classroom and started freelancing as a copywriter, I thought my experience and skills would translate seamlessly. I had all kinds of transferable abilities—from writing and editing to managing projects and handling the chaos of 30 teenagers in a small room without air conditioning.
But imposter syndrome? It still hit hard.
Every time I applied for a job, I felt like they could see right through me. Like they could smell the anxiety wafting through the screen. My inner critic buzzed—I was over-justifying why I thought I could do the job, which probably (definitely) made me look less qualified. I had all the skills and experience; the only blocker was me.
If you’ve ever felt like three owls stacked up in a business suit, awkwardly trying to convince someone you belong, then you know what I mean.
Why imposter syndrome loves former teachers
It’s no secret that teaching is one of the most selfless professions out there. After all, you’ve spent years being the go-to person for everything from math problems to emotional crises. So when you step into a new role—one where you’re not automatically the “expert in the room”—it’s easy to feel out of place.
That’s where imposter syndrome kicks in, whispering, "Are you sure you’re cut out for this?"
Guess what? Imposter syndrome is kind of like that student who always raises their hand, even when they don’t know the answer. Loud, persistent, but not necessarily accurate.
Teachers are toolkits of expertise
Before we go any further, let’s get one thing straight: you are bringing a lot to the table. Your years in the classroom have made you a multi-talented powerhouse. Let’s look at a few skills you may not realize are highly transferable:
Public speaking: Whether you were explaining quadratic equations or the life cycle of a butterfly, you've been talking to an audience every day. Now, when it’s time to lead a meeting or give a presentation, guess what? You’re already a pro.
Time management: Teachers can turn 20 chaotic minutes into a productive lesson. If you can juggle lesson planning, grading, and lunch duty, managing a project timeline will be a walk in the park.
Problem-solving: Teachers are used to thinking on their feet. A kid forgets their homework, the projector breaks, and the principal wants your grade report as of yesterday? You've solved more crises before lunchtime than most people face in a week.
Empathy and emotional intelligence: You've guided students through everything from academic stress to personal struggles. That emotional intelligence is a superpower in any work environment.
You’re not alone in your confidence crisis
Here’s the thing about imposter syndrome: it’s sneaky, and it doesn’t discriminate. Whether transitioning into a new career or trying to grow in your current role, imposter syndrome can make you feel like a fraud, even when you’re fully qualified to succeed.
Even seasoned professionals in tech, business, or any other industry feel like imposters sometimes. The key is to acknowledge the feeling but not let it control your decisions.
How to build confidence in your new career
Take inventory of your skills List out all the skills you’ve developed as a teacher (seriously, write them down). Then, connect those skills to your new role. This will help you see that you’re more prepared than you think. You’ll also have a handy list to pull from when imposter syndrome strikes.
Embrace being a lifelong learner Remember how much you encouraged your students to be lifelong learners? Channel that same energy into your new role. You don’t have to know everything right away. Stay curious and ask questions—no one expects you to have all the answers on day one. (Plus, there’s no shame in asking ChatGPT what LTV-CAC means when everyone casually mentions it during a company meeting.)
Lean on your support system Whether it’s former colleagues, new coworkers, or a coach, surround yourself with people who will remind you of your strengths. Imposter syndrome loves isolation, so don’t go through it alone.
Celebrate small wins Just like you celebrated small victories in the classroom (like finally getting that one student to turn in their homework), take time to recognize your accomplishments in your new role. These small wins will slowly build your confidence.
Rewriting your inner narrative
If there’s one thing teachers know, it’s the power of a good story. Imposter syndrome is just that—a story you’re telling yourself. Luckily, you can rewrite it.
Instead of, “I don’t belong here,” try, “I’m still learning, but I’ve got valuable skills to offer.” Instead of, “I’m going to fail,” try, “I’ve succeeded before, and I can do it again.”
It’s about shifting your mindset from "I don’t know enough" to "I’m capable of figuring it out."
The takeaway
Leaving the classroom doesn’t mean you leave behind all the skills, experience, and wisdom you’ve gained. In fact, you’re just getting started. Imposter syndrome might show up to your new job, but it doesn’t get to stay unless you let it.
Remember, you’ve already done one of the hardest jobs on the planet—teaching. So if you can handle a room full of adolescents on a Friday afternoon, you can definitely handle this next chapter in your career.
Now, go out there and show them what you’re made of!
