How to Conquer Your Inner Critic & Step Into Your Dream Life

by Kristina Karlsson, Dream Life Founder

Have you ever had that nagging voice in your head whispering, “You’re not good enough”, “You don’t belong here”, or “Any moment now, they’ll realise you’re a fraud”? If so, you're not alone.

In fact, research shows that around 70% of people experience these thoughts at some point in their lives.

That’s imposter syndrome – and it’s exactly what this Dream Life podcast episode is all about.

I had the absolute pleasure of speaking with the incredible Alison Shamir – speaker, coach, and author of the brilliant new book Conquer Your Imposter.

Alison is on a mission to help people around the world free themselves from the limiting beliefs that hold them back from sharing their gifts and living their dream lives. And let me tell you, this conversation left me deeply inspired and more equipped to support those of you struggling with this silent inner battle.

The Power of Naming the Imposter

One of the most impactful things Alison shared is how simply understanding what imposter syndrome is can be life-changing. Imposter syndrome isn’t just regular self-doubt.

It’s a deeply ingrained belief that you don’t belong – even when all the evidence says otherwise. It’s that voice that persists despite your achievements.

What struck me most is that imposter syndrome often affects the most capable, talented people. It shows up at pivotal moments – when we get promoted, start a business, launch a creative project, or share something meaningful.

It’s not the lack of skill that holds us back... it’s the story we’re telling ourselves.

Key Insight #1: Imposter Syndrome Isn’t About Capability

Alison beautifully explained that imposter syndrome usually stems from old, unresolved stories from our past. For her, it originated in childhood – through her relationship with her mother. For others, it might stem from cultural expectations, identity struggles, or formative school or workplace experiences.

What’s important is this: it’s not a reflection of your skills, but of how you perceive yourself. This distinction is everything.

Key Insight #2: Self-Doubt Is Normal – But It’s Not the Same

One of my big takeaways was Alison’s distinction between self-doubt and imposter syndrome. I’ve always believed that self-doubt is part of the journey when we set big dreams – and Alison agrees. But imposter syndrome goes deeper.

It’s not just wondering “Can I do this?” — it’s believing “I’m not enough to do this.”

The antidote? Changing the question.

Instead of asking, “Who am I to do this?” start asking, “Why not me?”

That one shift has the power to change everything.

Key Insight #3: You Don’t Need to Be Great at Everything

This part of our conversation felt so close to my heart. When I started Kikki.K, I didn’t know anything about business or retail. I had no money, no experience, and English was my second language.

But I wasn’t trying to be perfect — I just had a dream and trusted I could figure it out by surrounding myself with smart people.

What helped me was following people like Oprah and Richard Branson — not because they were flawless, but because they weren’t.

They showed me that challenges don’t disqualify you; they shape you. Alison reaffirmed this in our chat: people who don’t experience imposter syndrome often have a healthier view of competence.

They know that they don’t need to be good at everything — they just need to stay in their lane and shine.

Key Insight #4: Imposter Syndrome Can Be Healed

Alison had a moment of breakdown in 2013 — a panic attack in her office that forced her to confront what she’d been pushing aside for years. From that moment forward, she began to unpack the stories she believed about herself.

And in doing so, she began rewriting them.

What she found is that imposter syndrome can be healed — not by working harder, or achieving more — but by doing the internal work.

By identifying the outdated beliefs, reframing the narrative, and learning to validate yourself.

The best news? You don’t have to do it alone.

My Personal Reflection

Even though I haven’t experienced imposter syndrome myself, this conversation made me realise how many women in my coaching community do.

It breaks my heart to hear brilliant, passionate people hold themselves back — not because they lack skill, but because they’ve been convinced they’re not enough.

This is why I’m reading Conquer Your Imposter with our Dream Life Book Club and why this episode is a must-listen if you're struggling to step into your light.

Sharing your voice and gifts with the world isn’t about being perfect — it’s about showing up anyway.

And as Alison so beautifully reminded us: you don’t need to wait to feel ready. You become ready by doing.

5 Takeaways from This Episode

1. Imposter syndrome is different from self-doubt — it’s a false belief about your worth, not your skills.

2. Your past stories aren’t permanent — you can rewrite them and reclaim your confidence.

3. You don’t have to be perfect to start — in fact, the most powerful people aren’t.

4. “Why not me?” is the question that opens doors.

5. There’s no shame in feeling like an imposter — but you don’t have to stay there.

✨ If this resonates with you, I really encourage you to:

• Listen to the full conversation with Alison on the Your Dream Life Podcast

• Grab a copy of Conquer Your Imposter

• Join us in my GROW Book Club in August — we’ll be reading and unpacking Alison’s book together.

• Consider joining my Coaching Program in August where we'll focus on Sharing Your Light.

Together, we can let go of the beliefs holding us back and start sharing our light.

Because the world needs what only you can offer.

Big love,