Have you ever doubted your abilities, despite your success? If you’ve ever started a new job or taken on a leadership role at a company, you might have experienced that incessant feeling that you just weren’t good enough. You may be questioning your skills, fearing failure, and waiting for others to realize you don’t belong. The self-doubt you find creeping in could make even the most accomplished professional feel unworthy.
These are all textbook symptoms of imposter syndrome, a common affliction among high-ranking professionals. In 2024, a Korn Ferry survey found that 71% of U.S. CEOs and 65% of senior executives experience imposter syndrome during their careers. Despite having the credentials and appropriate experience for the job, many executives are left asking themselves, “Am I really worthy to lead?”
What Causes Imposter Syndrome?
Despite the prevalence of imposter syndrome, it is not listed in the DSM as an official diagnosis. Instead, it is understood as a specific form of self-doubt and is often brought about in response to outside factors. So, what causes imposter syndrome?
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- Perfectionism – When an individual sets a high personal standard for themselves, it is easy to feel like their work is never good enough. Anything other than a perfect outcome can seem like a failure. It’s this all-or-nothing mentality that leads to feelings of inadequacy.
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- Underrepresentation – People who are part of a minority group are more susceptible to the feeling of not belonging. A KPMG study from 2023 found that 75% of female executives across all industries feel inadequate and unqualified for their jobs despite proper training and accreditation.
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- Pressure to Succeed – The pressure to succeed can be overwhelming. A high-pressure, stressful environment can lead to doubt about one’s leadership and the quality of their work.
No matter the cause, imposter syndrome can become a cycle. Success in the wake of imposter syndrome can lead an individual to believe that their achievements were the result of self-imposed stress and pressure. This self-destructive pattern can lead to a staggering sense of burnout if left unchecked.
How to Break the Imposter Syndrome Cycle
Breaking the cycle of imposter syndrome can take time and effort. Using the techniques below can help minimize the effects of imposter syndrome when done repeatedly.
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- Stop belittling yourself – In times of doubt, don’t allow yourself to undercut the value you bring to the table.
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- Remember your wins – Take time to make a list of all your accomplishments and little victories. This can include promotions, successful projects, and even compliments from colleagues and superiors. Look back on it when you feel unworthy and remind yourself that your accomplishments are proof of your capability.
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- Take that risk – Imposter syndrome can make you hesitant to act on your ideas for fear that they’ll be more risk than reward. The best way to combat this feeling is to confront it head-on. Take that risk and allow it to pay off.
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- Reevaluate your mindset – The crux of imposter syndrome lies within the individual experiencing it. Look inward and explore the root cause of your feelings of inadequacy. Once you find them, confront them.
Imposter syndrome can have lasting effects on those who experience it. It’s best to overcome feelings of inadequacy before they take a deeper hold. Give yourself grace and remember that there’s a reason you’ve succeeded so far—your merit.
