Tackling Imposter Syndrome in the Veterinary Industry

By Lucy Emberton-Leveson

Imposter syndrome is the quiet, nagging feeling that you are not as competent as others believe you to be. For many veterinary clinical professionals, it can surface as the worry that you don’t know enough, that you are one mistake away from being “found out,” or that your achievements are more a result of luck than skill. Despite years of study, clinical experience, and professional recognition, imposter syndrome remains a common challenge across the veterinary profession.

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Why Vets Are Especially Vulnerable

Veterinary surgeons face unique pressures that can fuel self-doubt:

• High expectations – Clients expect answers, compassion, and successful outcomes, often in emotionally charged situations.
• Broad knowledge base – Unlike human medicine, veterinary surgeons are expected to treat multiple species and juggle medicine, surgery, dentistry, nutrition, and more.
• Perfectionism – Many vets enter the profession as high-achievers, which can make mistakes feel devastating.
• Comparison culture – Social media, conferences, and workplace hierarchies can intensify feelings of inadequacy when comparing yourself to peers.

Recognising the Signs

Imposter syndrome can manifest as:

• Downplaying your achievements (“I just got lucky with that case”).
• Avoiding new challenges out of fear of failure.
• Overworking to “make up for” perceived shortcomings.
• Anxiety or stress before routine procedures or client interactions.

Strategies to Tackle Imposter Syndrome

1. Normalise It
   Remind yourself that imposter syndrome is common. Even the most experienced vets and specialists experience self-doubt. Talking openly with colleagues can reduce the sense of isolation.
2. Challenge Negative Self-Talk
   When you catch yourself thinking “I don’t know enough,” reframe it to “I’m always learning, just like everyone else.” Recognise that uncertainty is a natural part of medicine.
3. Keep a Success Journal
   Record cases you’ve managed well, client feedback, or personal achievements. Reviewing this during moments of doubt can provide a reality check.
4. Seek Feedback and Mentorship
   Constructive feedback from peers or mentors helps replace self-perception with objective evaluation. Mentorship also provides reassurance and perspective.
5. Embrace Lifelong Learning
   Veterinary medicine is vast and constantly evolving. No one knows everything, and admitting gaps is a sign of professionalism, not inadequacy.
6. Look After Yourself
   Fatigue and burnout amplify imposter feelings. Prioritising rest, exercise, hobbies, and connection outside of work helps build resilience.

Moving Forward

Imposter syndrome may never fully disappear, but it can be managed. By recognising its signs, challenging unhelpful thought patterns, and leaning on professional and peer support, veterinary surgeons can shift their focus from “not being good enough” to “being good enough and always growing.”

Your skills, dedication, and compassion brought you into this profession. Those qualities—not perfection—are what make you a great vet.

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