Are You Stuck in an Impostor Cycle?
- Do you worry your achievements are due to luck rather than talent?
- Do you struggle to accept praise or internalize achievements?
- Do you avoid new challenges or opportunities?
- Do you struggle with procrastination or perfectionism?
- Do you worry that if people could REALLY see you, they'd realize you don't belong?
If any of these statements resonate with you, don't worry, you're not alone. Many people struggle with impostor thoughts and feelings. Although it can feel daunting and discouraging, take comfort in knowing there are evidence-based strategies that can help!
The impostor phenomenon (IP), often referred to as 'impostor syndrome,' refers to a psychological experience where individuals doubt their accomplishments and have a persistent fear of being exposed as a "fraud," despite evidence of their competence and success. People experiencing this phenomenon often attribute their achievements to luck or external factors rather than their own abilities, leading to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and self-doubt.
Originally observed by psychologists Pauline Rose Clance and Suzanne Imes in the late 1970s during their study of high-achieving women, it's now recognized that IP transcends demographic or professional boundaries. However, individuals from marginalized groups may be particularly susceptible.
Impostor thinking stems from feeling like an intellectual impostor, making it challenging to internalize personal accomplishments. This mindset often surfaces through persistent negative self-talk, setting unreasonably high standards, resorting to maladaptive coping mechanisms, attributing success to luck, and habitually downplaying achievements. Unfortunately, research has shown that such ongoing self-doubt and the fear of being exposed can lead to increased psychological distress, including stress, anxiety, depression, shame, social withdrawal, and burnout.
Psychological Research, Theory, and Interventions
This book offers a scientific investigation into the impostor phenomenon, a concept that has long been misunderstood in popular culture.
I was honored to co-author Chapter 14: Research-Based Strategies for Combating the Impostor Phenomenon in Higher Education.
Two-hour, half-day, or full-day interactive psychoeducational workshops providing an introduction to the impostor phenomenon, review of recent research, and discussion of evidence-based strategies. Easily tailored to professional, academic, or student audiences. Participants will leave with a greater understanding of their impostor experiences and actionable next steps!
Delivered as a traditional presentation (i.e., little audience interaction), these talks offer valuable insights into the impostor phenomenon, including the roles of context, identity, and institutional culture. With a focus on empirical findings, attendees learn about evidence-based strategies for managing impostor experiences. Although not fully interactive, questions are always encouraged!
Team and individual coaching is a great option for those looking for more personalized support to overcome the impostor phenomenon. I utilize evidence-based approaches to empower professionals, academics, and students suffering from impostor thinking, self-doubt, burnout, and motivation. Whether you're navigating impostor feelings in the
Team and individual coaching is a great option for those looking for more personalized support to overcome the impostor phenomenon. I utilize evidence-based approaches to empower professionals, academics, and students suffering from impostor thinking, self-doubt, burnout, and motivation. Whether you're navigating impostor feelings in the workplace, academia, or personal pursuits, coaching can provide powerful results!