Imposter Syndrome: How to Recognize and Overcome It

I’m hearing the term more and more. Yesterday, the topic came up twice in separate conversations. Last week I came across an article with new information on the subject. As you read this, you may recognize feelings you have felt yourself, from time to time. So, let’s dive into it. Imposter Syndrome, also known as perceived fraudulence, is a psychological pattern especially prevalent in high achievers.

What Is Imposter Syndrome?

People who suffer from Imposter Syndrome (sometimes called “perceived fraudulence”) doubt their own accomplishments. They live in fear of being discovered as a fake or a fraud. It doesn’t matter how much proof exists of their skill or talent. People who suffer from Imposter Syndrome believe their achievements are a result of good fortune or a mistake.  Many successful executives, as well as celebrities and performers experience these feelings.

Many with Imposter Syndrome suffer from anxiety, stress, or depression, however, it is not considered a mental illness.  Early research focused on women who suffer from Imposter Syndrome. But more recent studies indicate the condition may be equally prevalent in men.

Imposterism in Relationships

Much of the research focuses on Imposter Syndrome related to career achievement. But it may also present in relationships.  Some cannot accept that they are worthy love. They believe that they are being loved “by mistake”. They doubt their own attractiveness and may believe that once their partner “learns the truth” about them that the relationship will end.

Imposterism in Students

Students also sometimes suffer from Imposter Syndrome. They may believe they’ve lucked into high test scores or a strong academic record. They believe their accomplishments are temporary. And sometimes doubt the reasons they may have been nominated for an award or scholarship.

In all of these situations, the feelings of distrust and lack of self-worth may seriously undermine the positive aspects of that person’s strong performance.

Those Most Prone to Imposter Syndrome

There are several types of people who tend to experience Imposter Syndrome.

• Perfectionists: These folks set unreasonable goals for themselves. If they fail, they experience self-doubt. They need to feel in control and may believe things only turn out right when they, personally, do them. Since they aren’t comfortable with delegation, they often experience over work and excessive stress.
• Soloists: These people believe they must perform in isolation.  If they require others input or support, they believe it’s a sign of failure.
• Superwoman/Superman: These folks push themselves extremely hard. This is to cover their own insecurity. They wind up exhausted; their drive also often harms their relationships.
• “Natural Geniuses”: These are people are extremely good at some things with little effort.  They’re not used to having to work hard to achieve.  So, if something requires effort, they believe it is illuminating a flaw in themselves.  They are similar to perfectionists and believe they should master things immediately. When they don’t, it triggers self-doubt and anxiety.
• Individualists: Individualists are people who believe that asking for help is a sign of weakness. That it reveals that they are actually a “phony”.
• Experts: People in this category believe they are not qualified to do the jobs they have.  They think they are actually “frauds” and even believe that they may have been hired by mistake. These folks tend to require lots of data when starting a new project. They pursue multiple degrees or other credentials to confirm their competency.

How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome

Here are some suggestions that may help overcome the symptoms of Imposter Syndrome when we feel them coming on.

Thank you as always for reading.

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Joan Senio is the founder of KindCompassCoach. Her career includes 20+ years as a private sector corporate executive and 15 years (and counting) as a consultant and coach. The common thread through her professional life has been a commitment to compassionate leadership, including leading and mentoring current and future leaders, and women from all walks of life. KindCompassCoach articles are backed by research and include facts and advice from a wide variety of experts. Joan is a member of the International Organization of Life Coaches, serves as a thought-leader for KuelLife.com and is a regular contributor to PsychReg and Sixty and Me.