The internalized, nagging feeling you aren’t good enough for what you’ve earned
Imposter syndrome, the internalized feeling that one has only succeeded due to luck, and not because of talent or qualifications, was coined in 1978 by psychologists Pauline Rose Clance and Suzanne Imes in their seminal paper on the phenomenon. They hypothesized imposter syndrome was exclusively felt by women, but newer research has proven it’s a near-universal psychological battle. Though it does disproportionately affect women and minorities (thanks to their respective stereotypes and shared propensity to suffer from self-doubt), over 70% of people encounter imposter syndrome at work at some point in their lives.
Given its foundation in insecurity, it would be easy to assume that imposter syndrome primarily preys on the unsuccessful or meek. It would also be a mistake. Imposter syndrome is felt by some of the most successful individuals—like Tina Fey, Maya Angelou, and Tom Hanks, to name a few. Despite preparation, proven merit, and qualitative proof of their impressive performance, the pressure to live up to expectations has often left them feeling inadequate in the face of opportunity. For celebrities and middle-class workers alike, combating imposter syndrome is a daily practice, one made easier with a steadfast support system.
At JANOU LLC, we recognize that helping candidates—particularly women and minorities disproportionately affected by the phenomenon—to overcome imposter syndrome is the key to their advancement in the workplace. In the process of recruiting and placement, we commit to normalize imposter feelings, foster a sense of belonging, and encourage positive self-talk for all candidates. These aims foster the confidence candidates need to defeat their self-perpetuating cycle of doubt on which imposter syndrome thrives.
Below are popular imposter syndrome quotes. If you’ve ever heard these instances of doubt ringing in your ears, try changing the narrative and owning your success with the respective replies. Bonus points if you say them in the mirror.
“Why am I not good enough” Re: Actually, you are.
“I don’t belong here.” Re: Actually, you do.
“How did I get here?” Re: By working hard.
“Do I deserve this?” Re: To the nth degree, yes.
“Why are they taking a chance on me?” Re: Because they believe in you—try it!
“They’re going to find out I’m not as (smart, creative, capable) as they thought.” Re: Or, they’ll find out you were just as incredible as they thought—and then some.
If you feel negativity creeping into your headspace, remember: Your success is not a fluke. You are not a fraud. You can do it.*
*Anything.
For more reflections on imposter syndrome, check out the articles below.
Mentoring Someone with Imposter Syndrome, HBR
Impostor Syndrome Prevalence In Professional Women And How To Overcome It, Forbes
How to Overcome ‘Impostor Syndrome’, NYT
Yes, Impostor Syndrome Is Real. Here's How to Deal With It, TIME