"Imposter syndrome is super healthy"

Television and radio presenter Claudia Winkleman talks to Psychologies about taking wellness seriously in her 50s, the power of a good nap, and why she’ll never wear a sports bra

- By Lauren Taylor

Now in it’s 21st series, Strictly Come Dancing, and, with it, the show’s co-presenter Claudia Winkleman, has become as much a part of Christmas as carols and crackers. With her famous eye-sweeping fringe, orange fake tan (her words) and quick humour, the 51-year-old says this is the decade where she’s really found her career ‘groove’.

‘I definitely feel more grateful in my 50s – both me and my family. I don’t know whether we even used that word when I was young,’ says Winkleman, who has also been confirmed to present season two of hit BBC show The Traitors.

‘I don’t want my career to end tomorrow – more than anything, I love the adrenaline. But if it does, I think I’ve had a ridiculously long run. I can’t bear the arrogance of assuming that it’s just going to continue – I love a bit of imposter syndrome. I think it’s super healthy.’

It’s an attitude the presenter hopes to pass onto her children, too. ‘I’ve met people who don’t have it – they’re awful. I think it’s okay to think, “How have I got here?”, “When are they going to find out?”, and “I’m really not that good!”. And I want to instil that in my kids, too. Entitlement is not fine.’