Do You Have Imposter Syndrome?

We take a look at the condition that’s more common than you think

- Amber Bramble

What do Michelle Obama, Meryl Streep, Jacinda Arden and Tina Fey have in common? Aside from the obvious answer that they’re all smart and extremely successful women, they’ve all admitted they’ve battled with imposter syndrome.

Imposter syndrome is a condition that often affects high achievers who struggle to believe their success is deserved or that it has been achieved through their own hard work and skills. It might be an irrational feeling of being a “fraud” or a nagging fear of being “caught out”. And while it’s often associated with the workplace, imposter syndrome can also occur in relationships and even friendships.

Lecturer Dr Sue Wilson from Monash University, who has written several research texts on imposter syndrome, says these fears are usually unfounded. “Often when we’re enacting the role in which we feel inadequate, we are enough and we are competent at the role,” she explains.

WHY IT HAPPENS

Imposter syndrome is common in jobs that are public or where there are high expectations. It’s more prevalent among women and minorities, but it can happen to anyone.