Overcoming Impostor Syndrome: Why It's More Common Than You Think

Do most people have imposter syndrome?

Psychologists first described the syndrome in 1978. According to a 2020 review, 9%–82% of people experience impostor syndrome. The numbers may vary depending on who participates in a study. Many people experience symptoms for a limited time, such as in the first few weeks of a new job.

What is Impostor Syndrome?

Impostor Syndrome (sometimes referred to as impostor phenomenon, impostorism, or fraud syndrome) is a psychological pattern in which individuals doubt their accomplishments, and feel unworthy of the accolades and successes they have earned. Even when faced with evidence that the individual is competent, capable and successful, those with impostor syndrome may still attribute such success to luck, timing, or even unwanted help from others. The individual may even view their accomplishments as a result of fooling or deceiving others.

Why is Impostor Syndrome More Common Than You Think?

Impostor Syndrome is more common than most people may think, and it is especially prevalent in high achieving individuals. This can be noted by the amount of successful, talented individuals that are afflicted by Impostor Syndrome. To be clear, Impostor Syndrome is not a mental disorder but rather a set of thoughts and behaviors that can be managed and eventually excluded. Below are 3 core reasons why this syndrome is more common than you may initially think.

1. Perfectionism

Perfectionism is one of the biggest reasons why Impostor Syndrome is more common than most think. Perfectionism can be defined as the inclination for high personal standards that an individual strives to meet or exceed. Those with these tendencies will often strive for excellence or even perfection in everything they do, often to an unhealthy exception. This desire for perfection can often lead an individual to become bogged in details or fail to complete projects due to the ever-growing list of alterations that need to be done to “perfect” the project. This can lead an individual with Impostor Syndrome to feel inadequate, as if whatever they put out it is not good enough despite all evidence to the contrary.

2. Comparison

Comparison is another huge factor in Impostor Syndrome being more common that one may think. Not only is there a comparison to those living in the same community, but also there is a comparison to family, film stars, professionals and more via the internet. This comparison can lead to an individual feeling that they are inadequate, regardless of how successful they are. The end result within Impostor Syndrome is confirmed, and the phrase “I must be inadequate” often surfaces.

3. Fear of Failure

Last, but certainly not least, is the fear of failure. Those suffering from Impostor Syndrome are often of the mindset that any failure is a direct reflection of themselves, particularly when it comes to feelings of worth and ability. As a result, many may try to avoid situations that may end in failure, or even avoid the idea of success all together for fear of the added pressure. These feelings may compound the individual’s feelings of inadequacy, and have a large impact on their self-worth and esteem.

Next Steps

If you feel like you may be dealing with Impostor Syndrome, the best thing you can do is to seek professional help. There are mental health professionals all over the world who specialize in helping folks manage Impostor Syndrome and overcome the symptoms they are faced with. Additionally, there are support groups, chatrooms, and even YouTube channels dedicated to helping those who identify suffer from Impostor Syndrome. If a professional therapist is not in your budget, utilizing those free support systems can be helpful in identifying and understanding your own Impostor Syndrome, and developing coping mechanisms to better manage the feelings associated with it.