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How to Deal with Imposter Syndrome as a Muslim

11 April, 2023
Q Salam. I have intense feelings of imposter syndrome when it comes to being a Muslim. I don't know as much as others and it makes me sad that people think more highly of me than what is true. They probably think I am so pure and pious, but I have a past I regret every day and at times I feel like I want to share this but I know I shouldn't. I can't get over feeling like I'm such a fraud & one day I will be exposed for the person I used to be, even if I know I would never be that way ever again and haven't in years. Allah has concealed my sins amazingly, but I can't shake the thought that He will throw a test at me where these are unconcealed and my life is ruined. :( Or that someone will ask me a religious question and when I say "idk" they will know I am not that educated and am probably faking it all.

Answer

Aisha Mohammad
11 April, 2023

You have a sinful past, but you have successfully overcome it. You have repented and asked for forgiveness, and Allah (SWT) has concealed your wrongdoing in exchange.

He helped you mold and transform yourself into who you are now. You are no longer the one who was in the past, and you will be judged by others for your present consistency and good deeds.

Focus on the present and acknowledge that, alhamdulillah, you are now on the right path.

Learn more and keep seeking knowledge for the sake of Allah. And know that there is nothing wrong with not knowing the answer to all questions about the deen.

Use these “I don’t know“s as motivation to search for more answers and increase your wisdom and imaan.

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What else is there to do? Check the counselor’s advice here.

More from Sr. Aisha:

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Disclaimer: The conceptualization and recommendations stated in this response are very general. They are purely based on the limited information provided in the question. In no event shall AboutIslam, its counselors or employees be held liable for any damages that may arise from your decision in the use of our services.

piety guilty forgive yourself Forgiveness in Islam
About Aisha Mohammad
Aisha has a PhD in psychology, an MS in public health and a PsyD. Aisha worked as a Counselor/Psychologist for 12 years at Geneva B. Scruggs Community Health Care Center in New York. She has worked with clients with mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, panic disorder, trauma, and OCD. She also facilitated support groups and provided specialized services for victims of domestic violence, HIV positive individuals, as well youth/teen issues. Aisha is certified in Mindfulness, Trauma Informed Care, Behavioral Management, Restorative Justice/ Healing Circles, Conflict Resolution, Mediation, and Confidentiality & Security. Aisha is also a Certified Life Coach, and Relationship Workshop facilitator. Aisha has a part-time Life Coaching practice in which she integrates the educational concepts of stress reduction, mindfulness, introspection, empowerment, self love and acceptance and spirituality to create a holistic healing journey for clients. Aisha is also a part of several organizations that advocates for prisoner rights/reentry, social & food justice, as well as advocating for an end to oppression & racism. In her spare time, Aisha enjoys her family, photography, nature, martial arts classes, Islamic studies, volunteering/charity work, as well as working on her book and spoken word projects.