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What is imposter syndrome?

PsychologyLesson on requestFree to read

Quick answer

Imposter syndrome is the persistent feeling that you're a fraud who doesn't deserve your success, despite clear evidence of your competence. People who experience it fear being 'found out', and often credit luck rather than their own ability. It's a feeling of being a fraud despite real achievements.

Key things to understand

  1. It's a feeling of being a fraud despite real achievements.
  2. Sufferers fear being 'exposed' as less capable than others think.
  3. They tend to attribute success to luck, not skill.
  4. It's common among high achievers and can fuel overwork or anxiety.

People also ask

What causes imposter syndrome?
A mix of perfectionism, new challenges, and comparison with others can make capable people doubt they truly earned their success.
Who experiences imposter syndrome?
Anyone can, but it's especially common among high achievers, students, and people in new or demanding roles.
How do you overcome imposter syndrome?
Naming the feeling, sharing it with others, and tracking real evidence of your competence all help reduce it.