Imposter Syndrome in the Workplace

Understanding and overcoming the feeling that you don't deserve your success.

Imposter syndrome is the persistent feeling that you are not as competent as others think you are, despite evidence of your success. An estimated 70% of people experience it at some point. In highly competitive environments — like tech, finance, or medicine — it is especially common.

Common Signs of Imposter Syndrome

- Doubting your abilities even when you have proof of competence - Attributing success to luck rather than skill - Fear of being "found out" as not being as capable as people think - Overworking to compensate for perceived inadequacy - Downplaying accomplishments with "Anyone could do this"

Why It Hits Harder in Some Contexts

Imposter syndrome is amplified when you are the first in your family to work in a certain field, a woman in a male-dominated industry, or from a background that feels different from your peers. The sense of 'not belonging' intensifies the inner critic.

How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome

1. Keep an achievement journal: Write down wins — big and small — so you have evidence to counter the inner critic. 2. Talk about it: Many people you admire feel the same way. Voicing it often defuses it. 3. Separate feelings from facts: Feeling unqualified is not the same as being unqualified. 4. Mentor others: Teaching reinforces your own competence and shifts your perspective. 5. Replace comparison with curiosity: Instead of "they are better than me," ask "what can I learn from them?"

Seeking Support

Remember, you are not alone. Many successful people have felt like imposters. Seeking support from peers, mentors, or mental health professionals can help you gain perspective and confidence.

A Reframe: Use It as Fuel

A mild version of imposter syndrome can actually drive you to prepare more thoroughly and stay humble. The goal is not to eliminate it entirely, but to stop it from dictating your actions. You earned your place — let yourself occupy it fully.