Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

You Are Not an Imposter: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Unlock Your True Potential So You Can Thrive in Life

Rate this book
"If we keep attributing our successes to luck and our failures to ourselves, how are we going to be able to chase our dreams?"

When we think about imposter syndrome, we often relate it to businesses or educational fields. However, Coline Monsarrat has found out the hard way how it can affect many other areas of our life without us realizing it.

In this book, she describes how a simple sentence told by her mother when she was 6 years old led her to develop imposter syndrome. And how it almost killed her 25 years later.
Facing the painful truths behind why denial had become such an easy default option sparked within her an urge to change - it became clear: continuing could kill her or lead instead to change. The price she paid for her blindness was already staggering: she had to change.

Understanding how our brains work became pivotal as every moment revolved around saving herself from further harm caused by deeply rooted beliefs. Her quest to understand how she ended up in these situations led her to a journey of self-discoveries and transformation.

In her book You Are Not An Imposter, Coline Monsarrat explains how, step by step, she overcame low self-confidence, perfectionism, low self-esteem, people-pleasing, self-doubt, and many more behaviors that compose imposter syndrome and affected her ability to thrive.

Together let's break through these walls which have been preventing us from achieving true success. Let's break the mask of imposter syndrome. Together, let's THRIVE.

184 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 26, 2023

13 people are currently reading
93 people want to read

About the author

Coline Monsarrat

14 books12 followers
Coline Monsarrat, a passionate author driven by a mission to help others thrive, weaves captivating stories that transcend boundaries.

Whether through her insightful non-fiction work or the adventurous book series Aria & Liam, she imparts valuable wisdom that inspires readers to overcome challenges and embrace their potential. With a deep understanding of personal struggles, Coline draws from her own experiences living with a hereditary disease to empower readers to discover their inner strength. Aria & Liam is a thrilling series that seamlessly blends history, adventure, humor, and the enduring power of friendship.

Through relatable characters and thought-provoking storytelling, Coline imparts valuable insights, igniting resilience, compassion, and the joy of self-discovery. With every page turned, she aims to make a positive impact, helping individuals thrive one book at a time.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
77 (44%)
4 stars
60 (34%)
3 stars
29 (16%)
2 stars
7 (4%)
1 star
2 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
Profile Image for Veronica  Gavilanes.
416 reviews9 followers
February 19, 2023
This book is a mixture of a memoir, a research paper about imposter syndrome and its symptoms, and a self-help book. The author tells the story of her serious health problems and how this syndrome made her think it wasn't a big deal, so she neglected her well-being for years until it had severe consequences. Through these experiences, she explains several aspects of feeling like an imposter, such as people-pleasing, perfectionism, and self-esteem issues.

What I liked: The book is written clearly, and the author even offers some tips to overcome some of the manifestations of imposter syndrome. Her story is very interesting, I think I would have liked the book more if it was just a memoir. Also, I enjoyed it when the author quoted some studies to explain the psychological roots of these issues.

What I didn't like: This book and I weren't really compatible, so it was hard for me to finish it. I think that the author's story is so extreme that it made me feel that my imposter syndrome isn't as bad, so it didn't motivate me to work on myself. I also felt that many generalizations that she made were applicable to her experience, but not to mine or the experiences of many other people I know. And, it made me uncomfortable that the author assumed all the responsibility in her difficult situations. I mean, I understand that it is useful to embrace the past, to forgive and realize why people acted the way they did, to set boundaries, and to take life into our own hands, but she justified over and over when people neglected her and took advantage of her.

I thank BookSirens and the author because I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Saby Samar.
291 reviews13 followers
November 16, 2023
If seen psychologically ‘You are not an Imposter’ by Coline Monsarrat is a powerful book. It examines syndromes related to being imposter behavioral pattern. As I was confounded by this term I ran a random search online, it is loosely defined as doubting your abilities and feeling like a fraud. It disproportionately affects high-achieving people, who find it difficult to accept their accomplishments.

The book at large lets you know whether you are an imposter or not. It has concurrent narrative, one of her life’s story dealing with imposter syndrome and secondly ‘what and how about’ it. The author realized that she is grappling with this disorder for 23 years; at 30 she commences to overtake it. Imposter syndrome is not associated with only high-achieving women, it’s found in all ages across all genders.

The book is extremely easy to understand with anecdotes, personal life stories of the author, and simplified concepts strewn throughout the narrative. Throughout the book, her life's narrative runs like banter, giving impetuous to the pace and the scaffold of the book.

Self-awareness is one of the initial steps to overcome imposter syndrome...right at the first chapter the author points out how to cultivate it. She described many usual patterns that devalue or devour people at professional and personal life by imposter syndrome. It costs people everywhere, in professional and personal life. For instance, in office life fear nudges us to get in the mode of extreme workaholism.

We all have this syndrome from school days to college time to being in an office and in the relationship, well the thing is that we do not want to acknowledge it for fear of getting exposed to self-defeating values.
Profile Image for Merie.
101 reviews3 followers
February 7, 2023
The cover got me but also because I want to know more about ‘imposter syndrome’ — something that still confuses me because on many occasions, I thought I might have it, but on some occasions I feel like I am just confused.

Reading this book did not really meet my expectation on understanding imposter syndrome. However, I got to see another side to it which is not so relatable to me. I started really slow because I already had the impression of that this is not the imposter syndrome I know of.

I still appreciated the entirety and the writing. I feel like if this was written as a memoir, I would have appreciated it more. I like how the author links her experience to some research but somehow lacking.

Chapter four was the most relatable and how it tackled perfectionism, having negative self-talk, embracing criticism, and how not to take things personally. I enjoyed reading this because as the author stated in the book, yes the situations stated in this chapter are all common to me.

Practical tips were also something I appreciated.

I still feel like it’s worth my time reading it. I picked something from it and helped me feel that I am not alone in some of my tendencies. But coming from an expectation to get to know myself better in terms of my imposter syndrome tendencies, I still have the same questions unanswered. I understand that it touches more on the health side, I should have managed that bit better from my end.

Note that I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[edit: i just saw that the blurb states that it's a memoir. It got me confused to a self help book, or maybe the title confused me.]
Profile Image for Stephanie.
114 reviews22 followers
February 25, 2023
Summarizing my review in one sentence: I felt so seen.

Sometimes I just sat there wondering how the author was able to capture exactly what’s going on in my head. Other times she said all the right things I needed to hear without being annoyingly motivating.

And other than some of my fellow reviewers I certainly enjoyed the book being a combination of memoire storytelling, self-help tips and scientific explanations. It was enjoyable to read yet I was able to take and learn something from it.

The one thing I’d criticize is that even though the book does an excellent job to help with reflecting on yourself and understanding imposter Syndrom and it’s roots, it lacks practical tips on how to overcome it. The author states building self-confidence would be the key for that (or that’s at least how she was able to tackle it) and I might agree, but it left me sitting and wondering HOW. Or since that might be pretty unique for everyone, I at least would have liked to read more about how she’d done it.


I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Monica Mac.
1,692 reviews40 followers
April 11, 2023
I have long believed that I am an imposter when it comes to my career, so when I saw the title of this book, it was a no-brainer to read it.

It is funny, I am a registered nurse and have post-graduate qualifications as well, but I have never felt like I am good enough. Even when I walked on the stage to get my degree, I was sure someone in the audience was going to say something like: "what the heck are you doing there, get off the stage!", but that didn't happen and I have now been a nurse for the past 15 years. I have spent a lifetime though, telling myself that everyone around me is smarter, more interesting, more skilled etc etc than I am.

The author of this book raises some interesting points and I hope I can put some of them into practice. It is funny what you remember from childhood, the phrases that follow you into adulthood and keep on haunting you. In my case it is the phrase: "just do your best", uttered by my mother constantly. I ALWAYS did my best, because I was petrified of what my parents might say or do if I did not. I still try my best now too, but I still think I come up short.

Anyway, this was a good book. Part memoir, part self-help. You can tell that the author's first language isn't English and sometimes you have to take that into account with some of the phrases she uses and also that the French work culture may not be the same as your own. Nevertheless, it was interesting and informative.

4 stars from me.

Thank you to Book Sirens for allowing me to read this book. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Val Andrews.
Author 18 books9 followers
March 8, 2023
If you genuinely suffer from "imposter syndrome" you will probably discover a kindred spirit in this author. She open heartedly shares her personal story which includes a challenging childhood, development of a chronic endocrine illness, and recovery from imposter syndrome.

Although she doesn't explicitly state the link between her physical illness and the psychological issues underpinning imposter syndrome, she does explain the many ways in which the body and mind are connected. I was personally fascinated by the research she presented about walking - while walking, our eyes move from side to side, an action that suppresses the activity of amygdala, the gland responsible for processing emotions. No wonder walking is so calming and mind-clearing!

Every chapter of the book includes solid scientific and psychological research and she presents it well, weaving in her own personal story. I highly recommend this book for anyone struggling with imposter syndrome or any self esteem issues that might be getting in the way of living their best life.
Profile Image for Sue Jack.
227 reviews8 followers
February 21, 2023
From the title of this book I assumed I would be reading a self-help book on how to overcome Imposter Syndrome - whilst this is the case in part, it is predominantly a memoir of the author's journey with some academic references added along the way. As such I feel the book has a bit of an identity crisis and loses some power as a result of trying to be a Jack of all trades but master of none.
The author's story is an interesting one and I liked how the book was broken down into sections addressing issues such as perfectionism, self-worth, people pleasing and negative self-talk.
Whilst I did enjoy the book I think it would have been better written as two separate ones: a powerful memoir and a well-referenced self-help book.
I am grateful to the publishers and Book Sirens for an advanced reader copy of this book and am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
32 reviews1 follower
August 19, 2024
You are not an Imposter is the book most introverts like me have been looking for all our lives. And Coline has given us the name to something most of us didn't even know we had. Imposter Syndrome, a condition within a condition where we can't accept simple compliments, where we find ourselves second guessing ourselves, people pleasing,low self confidence etc. Imposter Syndrome is a stone that hits many birds tackling issues that affects us daily without even realising it. I love how Coline gives part of herself to this book making herself an example.Bringing it closer to home and more relatable, more personal. We get to see our stubborn selves in her, set in our destructive ways that bring us devastating effects unless we change. Imposter Syndrome gives a self help book vibe, one that everyone needs on their book shelf. It is a book that makes us introspect and self reflect.
1 review
December 9, 2023
Coline Monsarrat's book is not just a personal narrative; it also serves as an academic guide to understanding imposter syndrome. She references numerous psychology experts, including Marisa Peer, to deepen the discussion on the psychological underpinnings of this condition. The book covers topics like the influence of subconscious thoughts and the trap of negative self-talk, tying them back to the author's own life experiences. 'You Are Not an Imposter' is an enlightening read, offering valuable perspectives for those interested in self-development or seeking a comprehensive understanding of human psychology
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
1 review
December 9, 2023
Coline Monsarrat's book is not just a personal narrative; it also serves as an academic guide to understanding imposter syndrome. She references numerous psychology experts, including Marisa Peer, to deepen the discussion on the psychological underpinnings of this condition. The book covers topics like the influence of subconscious thoughts and the trap of negative self-talk, tying them back to the author's own life experiences. 'You Are Not an Imposter' is an enlightening read, offering valuable perspectives for those interested in self-development or seeking a comprehensive understanding of human psychology.
308 reviews5 followers
February 14, 2023
This book was such an eye opener for me. I am in the process of getting my life in order and this book was a timely gift. I have to work on my self esteem and i loved the lessons this book teaches me.

Up until now I didn't even know what an imposter syndrome was and was shocked to realize i had too.

This a must read book, the lessons it teaches are invaluable. I am learning to value and love myself.

I totally recommend it.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
1 review
December 9, 2023
In her book, Coline Monsarrat provides a refreshing perspective on overcoming imposter syndrome. She skillfully illustrates how societal norms and the pursuit of perfection, fueled by social media, can lead to this psychological trap. Using her own decades-long journey as a backdrop, Monsarrat shares relatable stories that are both inspiring and instructive. The book, enriched with research and personal anecdotes, is an essential guide for anyone looking to conquer their inner critic and embrace their true self.
2 reviews
December 9, 2023
In 'You Are Not an Imposter,' Coline Monsarrat tackles the complex issue of imposter syndrome, emphasizing how social media and societal pressures contribute to this condition. Drawing from her own long struggle with the syndrome, she offers authentic, relatable stories alongside practical advice. Her book stands out for its blend of personal anecdotes and thorough research, making it a valuable resource for those seeking understanding and self-acceptance. Monsarrat's work is a heartfelt guide, ideal for anyone looking to overcome the doubts and challenges of imposter syndrome
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
2 reviews
December 9, 2023
In 'You Are Not an Imposter,' Coline Monsarrat provides an in-depth look at imposter syndrome, starting with her own experiences. From a young age, Monsarrat felt compelled to please others, a trait stemming from her perception of her mother's beliefs. This book traces her journey from these early experiences to her struggles with a pancreatic condition, illustrating how these challenges contributed to her sense of imposter syndrome. Her resilience in the face of these obstacles demonstrates the grit required to confront and overcome such deep-seated issues
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
1 review
December 9, 2023
This book is a compelling exploration of imposter syndrome, with a unique focus on the role of social media and societal expectations. Her personal battle with the syndrome shared through engaging stories, offers a deep and relatable insight. Monsarrat's combination of personal experiences with extensive research creates a book that's not only informative but also deeply empathetic. It's a recommended read for anyone struggling with self-doubt and seeking a path to self-confidence and acceptance.
1 review
December 9, 2023
You Are Not an Imposter' by Coline Monsarrat is an informative and accessible book that delves into the complexities of imposter syndrome. Monsarrat structures the book into well-organized chapters, addressing the causes, symptoms, and impacts of this condition. The blend of personal anecdotes with case studies makes the book particularly engaging, making the content relatable and practical. The author offers actionable strategies to help readers overcome imposter syndrome, making it a valuable read for anyone seeking to gain confidence and self-assurance.
1 review
December 9, 2023
You Are Not an Imposter' by Coline Monsarrat is an informative and accessible book that delves into the complexities of imposter syndrome. Monsarrat structures the book into well-organized chapters, addressing the causes, symptoms, and impacts of this condition. The blend of personal anecdotes with case studies makes the book particularly engaging, making the content relatable and practical. The author offers actionable strategies to help readers overcome imposter syndrome, making it a valuable read for anyone seeking to gain confidence and self-assurance
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
1 review
December 9, 2023
In 'You Are Not an Imposter,' Coline Monsarrat provides an in-depth look at imposter syndrome, starting with her own experiences. From a young age, Monsarrat felt compelled to please others, a trait stemming from her perception of her mother's beliefs. This book traces her journey from these early experiences to her struggles with a pancreatic condition, illustrating how these challenges contributed to her sense of imposter syndrome. Her resilience in the face of these obstacles demonstrates the grit required to confront and overcome such deep-seated issues.
1 review
December 9, 2023
In 'You Are Not an Imposter,' Coline Monsarrat tackles the complex issue of imposter syndrome, emphasizing how social media and societal pressures contribute to this condition. Drawing from her own long struggle with the syndrome, she offers authentic, relatable stories alongside practical advice. Her book stands out for its blend of personal anecdotes and thorough research, making it a valuable resource for those seeking understanding and self-acceptance. Monsarrat's work is a heartfelt guide, ideal for anyone looking to overcome the doubts and challenges of imposter syndrome.
1 review
December 9, 2023
This book is a compelling exploration of imposter syndrome, with a unique focus on the role of social media and societal expectations. Her personal battle with the syndrome shared through engaging stories, offers a deep and relatable insight. Monsarrat's combination of personal experiences with extensive research creates a book that's not only informative but also deeply empathetic. It's a recommended read for anyone struggling with self-doubt and seeking a path to self-confidence and acceptance
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
1 review
December 9, 2023
In her book, Coline Monsarrat provides a refreshing perspective on overcoming imposter syndrome. She skillfully illustrates how societal norms and the pursuit of perfection, fueled by social media, can lead to this psychological trap. Using her own decades-long journey as a backdrop, Monsarrat shares relatable stories that are both inspiring and instructive. The book, enriched with research and personal anecdotes, is an essential guide for anyone looking to conquer their inner critic and embrace their true self
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
64 reviews
February 28, 2023
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was a very thought provoking book that I was grateful to be able to read. I struggled with perfection and always trying to make the right decision, but this book helps as a stepping ground to get past those beliefs and be grateful for what I have accomplished, what I can accomplish, and what I will accomplish. This book is one that I would really recommend.
Profile Image for Louise.
1,495 reviews20 followers
March 11, 2023
The book looks at the consequences and origins of imposter syndrome, acknowledging the need for perfection as well as taking things personally, building confidence and understanding boundaries, and owning the successes up to the present day. The book is a memoir demonstrating the lessons learned and how to overcome imposter syndrome based on the experiences.


I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1 review
December 9, 2023
Coline Monsarrat's book, 'You Are Not an Imposter,' offers an insightful perspective on overcoming imposter syndrome. Drawing from her personal journey and professional background as a therapist, Monsarrat provides a thoughtful guide that resonates with those facing similar challenges. The book emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and highlights the need to focus on our achievements rather than our perceived shortcomings
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
107 reviews
July 2, 2023
I procrastinated reading this book knowing that it would hit home on more than one front. I am glad I read the book and I am trying some of the actions the author suggested. I would suggest this book to anyone and everyone.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
59 reviews4 followers
November 30, 2023
Powerful Read

This book is great for anyone who is questioning themselves and who they are. It helped me realize that our beliefs play such a huge role in how we view ourselves. With incredible insights, breaking free from imposter syndrome is possible with this book. Highly recommend!
1 review
December 9, 2023
Coline Monsarrat's 'You Are Not an Imposter' really struck a chord with me. Her blend of personal experiences and professional expertise provides a unique perspective on imposter syndrome. It’s rare to find such an honest and relatable guide on this topic. If you've ever felt like you're not good enough, this book is a comforting, empowering read.
1 review
December 9, 2023
This book from Coline Monsarrat is a heartfelt, insightful exploration of imposter syndrome. Her personal stories add a unique touch, making complex psychological concepts approachable. It's refreshing to read a book that not only identifies the problem but also provides clear, actionable solutions. A valuable read for anyone struggling with self-doubt.
1 review
December 9, 2023
This book, 'You Are Not an Imposter,' is a game-changer. Coline Monsarrat doesn't just talk theory; she gets real about her own battles with imposter syndrome. It’s rare to find a book that combines personal narrative with actionable advice so seamlessly. I found it incredibly helpful and think it's a great resource for anyone feeling like an imposter in their own life.
1 review
December 9, 2023
I was genuinely impressed by 'You Are Not an Imposter' by Coline Monsarrat. It's not just another self-help book; it's a deep dive into the psychological roots of imposter syndrome. The way she weaves in her personal struggles with broader psychological concepts is both enlightening and inspiring. A must-read for those looking for both understanding and practical strategies.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.