Do you ever feel like you have to “fake it until you make it?” When starting a new job, it is common to feel overwhelmed or that you are not really qualified. Many people, especially high achievers or perfectionists, feel this way when entering the workforce. This is known as “imposter syndrome,” and it is the feeling that at any moment, someone will discover that you are a fraud or a phony and that you do not belong in a certain position or place.
Despite extensive education and training, a person may feel overwhelmed and uncertain about their readiness to handle a new profession. They often concentrate on what they still need to learn, overlooking that their skills will grow and improve with time and experience. Those experiencing imposter syndrome do not feel confident or competent, no matter their achievement. They cannot enjoy their successes, as they constantly wait for their perceived inadequacy and deception to be exposed.
It has both advantages and drawbacks. On the one hand, it motivates one to work hard every day. However, on the other hand, it can lead to a reduced willingness to take career risks and can generate feelings of anxiety and tension, even during activities that should be enjoyable, leading to burnout.
According to the American Psychological Association, while imposter syndrome can be uncomfortable, it can foster personal growth by encouraging individuals to embrace learning opportunities and recognize their limitations. Imposter syndrome can affect people of any age, gender, profession, or racial background. However, individuals from minoritized groups may be more susceptible to it due to the impacts of racism, social stigmas, and microaggressions.
Factors contributing to its development
Family Environment: Growing up in an environment where achievement was highly emphasized or criticism was frequent can contribute to imposter syndrome.
Social Pressures: Being part of a group where approval seems tied to achievement can also foster imposter syndrome.
Sense of Belonging: Past experiences of exclusion, whether related to language, ethnicity, gender, or socioeconomic status, can fuel the fear of being “found out.”
Personality: Certain personality traits, such as introversion or a tendency to internalize stress, can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy.
Everyone experiences self-doubt at times. If you are curious about how imposter syndrome presents itself, here are some of its most common traits:
- Self-doubt: A persistent feeling of uncertainty about one’s abilities.
- Undervaluing contributions: Belittling personal achievements or downplaying their significance.
- Attributing success to external factors: Crediting accomplishments to luck or external help rather than personal effort.
- Sabotaging self-success: Making decisions that undermine one’s progress due to fear of failure.
- Setting unrealistic expectations: Holding oneself to impossibly high standards to compensate for feelings of inadequacy.
- Continuous fear of not meeting expectations: Constant worry about failing to meet personal or external expectations.
- Burnout: Overworking to prove competence, leading to exhaustion and loss of motivation.
Managing Imposter Syndrome
Overcoming imposter syndrome involves recognizing and challenging negative thought patterns, seeking support from trusted peers or mentors, and setting realistic goals. Therapy can also help address the underlying causes and build confidence. By becoming more aware of imposter syndrome and understanding its effects, individuals can work towards embracing their achievements with greater self-assurance.
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