Most leaders feel like a fraud at some point
The imposter phenomenon is well-documented in leadership research — and it's particularly common among high achievers who've recently taken on new responsibilities. You're not alone, and there's a way through.
Free • Takes 5 minutes • Evidence-based results
Do you feel like you're winging it
and waiting to be found out?
Research-backed reality
The imposter phenomenon is well-documented. Most people don't recognise it — they assume it's personal or temporary.
5 distinct patterns
The research identifies five imposter patterns. Each shows up differently and responds to different strategies.
Practical, not generic
This assessment gives you something specific to work with — based on evidence, not one-size-fits-all advice.
Free Assessment
Take the free imposter
phenomenon assessment
This free assessment takes five minutes. It identifies your dominant pattern and gives you something specific and practical to work with — based on the evidence, not generic advice.
Subscribe to Self Determined Leaders to access it. The newsletter is free — every week you'll get evidence-based strategies to lead with more confidence and less second-guessing. The assessment is your welcome gift.
Free forever. Unsubscribe any time. No spam, ever.
Who it's for
Managers and leaders who want practical, evidence-based tools — not just theory.
New leaders and high achievers who have recently stepped into a new role and want to lead with genuine confidence.
Helping leaders for more than a decade
About Self Determined Leaders
I am Martin Cole. I run the Self Determined Leaders newsletter and website. I am a professionally certified organisational and executive coach with a Masters (M.Sc.) in Coaching Psychology. I am also a qualified lawyer and I work in finance leading a team of compliance professionals.
I teach and coach leaders using evidence-based approaches to help them build the skills, knowledge and presence to create authentic leadership confidence. I have been leading teams for nearly 25 years and helping leaders and other professionals through coaching for over a decade.