Imposter Syndrome

‘It’s not that big of a deal.’ ‘Anybody could have done it.’ ‘I’m not as good as they think I am.’ ‘I was just lucky.’ ‘Do I really deserve to be here?’ Any of these thoughts sound familiar? Do they resonate with you at all? They do for me. If they do for you, you may be in the company of nearly 70% of the adult American population who suffer from ‘imposter syndrome, also known as the ‘imposter phenomenon. A nasty little pest that creeps in with a caseload of anxiety and doubtfulness.

According to Psychology Today, impostor syndrome is a belief that you are undeserving of your achievements and high esteem in which you are held. You feel that you may not be as talented, competent or intelligent as others might think that you are- and that soon enough, people will discover the truth about you.

I have been called out by more than one very close sister-friend about possibly suffering from imposter syndrome myself. I tend to call my abilities and accolades into doubt, to a point where I have convinced myself I am unworthy of such congratulatory praise. I measure it to others who I feel could have done a better job than me. And although quite common, it is not a healthy behavior of habit.

Although imposter syndrome is not an official medical diagnosis in the DSM5, it is indeed a valid behavior and is not to be underestimated or dismissed, because it does not discriminate. It is also normally a trait found in high achieving or position holding individuals. Corporate executives; managers; writers; actors/artists; etc.