#112 - Tara Halliday: Imposter Syndrome, Perfectionism, and Self-Worth

#112 - Tara Halliday: Imposter Syndrome, Perfectionism, and Self-Worth

From Poder aprender by Walter Freiberg

March 16, 2026 · 40 min · Episode 112

About this episode

The episode discusses the impact of imposter syndrome and perfectionism on language learning with executive coach Tara Halliday.

Feeling like a fraud can quietly shape the way we learn. Imposter syndrome can make language practice feel heavier, more personal, and more threatening than it really is. In this episode, Walter talks with executive coach Tara Halliday about the hidden patterns of self doubt, perfectionism, and comparison that affect so many learners. How can we tell the difference between normal lack of confidence and imposter syndrome? Why does comparison make learning harder? What helps us feel calmer, safer, and more capable while building a new skill? These are some of the questions we explore in episode #112 of “Poder aprender.” One of the key ideas in this conversation is that imposter syndrome is not the same as simply lacking confidence. Tara explains that it often shows up as the secret feeling of being a fraud, not belonging, or fearing that others will find out we are not good enough. In language learning, this can appear through self criticism, comparison, and the pressure to do everything right from the start. We also explore the role of support in reducing the weight of imposter syndrome. Tara explains that it tends to be triggered when high challenge meets low support. Instead of…

People in this episode

Host: Walter Freiberg

Guest: Tara Halliday

Topics covered

  • imposter syndrome
  • perfectionism
  • self-worth
  • language learning
  • self-doubt
  • support in learning

Keywords

  • imposter syndrome
  • perfectionism
  • self-worth
  • language practice
  • self-doubt
  • comparison
  • learning support

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