rm -rf self-doubt: Debugging Impostor Syndrome for Developers

​"Whether you think you can or you think you can't – you're right." (Henry Ford)

In software, we trust the logic of our systems, but the "human hardware" running the code often executes a background process of self-doubt. Imposter Syndrome isn't a permanent bug; it's a physiological response hard-coded into our biology. From junior devs facing their first pull request to Java Champions keynote-ing at international conferences, the "fraud detection" alert is a universal experience.

This session deconstructs the neuroscience behind this phenomenon—from the amygdala's "fight-or-flight" triggers to the cognitive effects of cortisol. We will move beyond the "soft skill" fluff to examine practical, iterative steps for managing these triggers. Learn how to reframe self-doubt as a signal for growth, optimize your response to code reviews, and lean into the discomfort of the unknown to thrive in an industry that changes every week.

You’ll walk away with tools you can apply immediately, whether you’re debugging unfamiliar code, speaking up in design discussions, or stepping into a bigger role.

Speaker - Vincent Mayers

​Expat Brit, artist, athlete, traveler, and technology community junkie. Vincent works at Neo4j as a Senior Community Manager, is a Java Champion, a steering committee member for MicroProfile, a board member of the Atlanta Java Users Group since 2008, and is an organizer of the Devnexus conference

Vincent has a degree in 3D Design from the University of Wolverhampton, United Kingdom, and, in another life, was a full-time athlete competing at World Championship level in whitewater kayaking.