Occasional insecurity at work is normal. However, imposter syndrome is a phenomenon in which those affected have the impression that they are undeservedly in a certain position. This can be very restrictive in everyday working life and is often not so easy to recognize. Find out more here. 

What is Imposter-Syndrome? 

Imposter syndrome describes a psychological phenomenon in which those affected are convinced that their achievements are undeserved, despite their obvious successes and qualifications. These people live in constant fear of being exposed as frauds. They believe that their successes are only due to luck or external circumstances and not to their own abilities and skills. 

Is imposter syndrome a new symptom? How does it develop and in which people does it occur? 

The phenomenon was first described in the 1970s by psychologists Pauline Clance and Suzanne Imes. Studies show that around 70% of people experience symptoms of Imposter Syndrome at least once in their lives. It is particularly common among women, minorities and younger generations who are in competitive environments such as universities or demanding professions. 

The most common causes of self-doubt 

The causes of imposter syndrome are varied and often complex. On the one hand, personal factors such as perfectionist tendencies or low self-esteem play a role. On the other hand, external factors such as high family expectations, social comparisons and stereotypical threats can exacerbate the syndrome. In our performance-oriented society, where success is often equated with superhumanity, many people feel under pressure to always be perfect. 

The view from the outside: the perception of fellow human beings, colleagues and managers  

Interestingly, people who suffer from Imposter Syndrome are usually perceived very differently by others. While they themselves talk down their successes and doubt their abilities, colleagues, friends and superiors often only see the external successes and admire the competence and commitment of those affected. An anecdote that illustrates this is the story of Maya Angelou, the renowned writer who, despite her numerous awards and successes, repeatedly felt that she did not deserve her success and would soon be exposed as a fraud. 

Strategies for increasing self-esteem and self-confidence  

 There are various strategies for overcoming Imposter Syndrome and developing self-confidence:  

1. Recognition of your own successes: keep a success diary in which you record your daily achievements to become aware of your abilities. 
2. Mentorship and support: Find mentors or colleagues who will encourage you and give you constructive feedback.  
3. Set realistic goals: Set achievable goals and celebrate small successes to gradually build your confidence. 
4. Develop self-compassion: Be forgiving of yourself and recognize that mistakes and failures are part of the learning process and are not a sign of incompetence. 
5. Seek professional help: In severe cases, it may be helpful to consult a therapist or coach to identify and work on deeper causes.

Summary: The Imposter Syndrome in a nutshell  

Insecurity at work is normal. You can't always feel like Superman or Wonder Woman. Imposter syndrome mainly affects the younger generations and causes those affected to feel that their position is undeserved. This can significantly restrict everyday working life. It is important to recognize that other people often see us differently. We should develop strategies to boost our self-esteem. By recognizing our successes, seeking support and setting realistic goals, we can learn to value ourselves more and be more confident in our professional and personal lives. 

Sources:  

1. Clance, P. R., & Imes, S. A. (1978). The Impostor Phenomenon in High Achieving Women: Dynamics and Therapeutic Intervention. *Psychotherapy: Theory, Research & Practice*, 15(3), 241-247.
2. Bravata, D. M., Watts, S. A., Keefer, A. L., et al. (2020). Prevalence, Predictors, and Treatment of Impostor Syndrome: a Systematic Review. *Journal of General Internal Medicine*, 35(4), 1252-1275.
3. Sakulku, J., & Alexander, J. (2011). The Impostor Phenomenon. *International Journal of Behavioral Science*, 6(1), 75-97.