Imposter syndrome is that nagging voice that says "you don't belong here." When you're changing careers, it gets louder. Every new term you don't know, every skill gap you discover — it all feeds the doubt.
Why It's Normal
You're literally starting something new. Of course you don't know everything yet. But here's what your imposter syndrome doesn't tell you: you bring years of transferable skills, life experience, and a fresh perspective that people who've always been in this field don't have.
Practical Strategies
Keep a wins journal. Write down every small accomplishment — a concept you understood, a project you completed, positive feedback you received.
Talk about it. You'd be surprised how many people in your new field felt exactly the same way when they started.
Reframe the narrative. You're not "behind" — you're bringing a unique combination of skills that makes you valuable in a different way.