What is an imposter syndrome?

It’s not who you are that holds you back
It’s who you think you’re not.

Hanoch McCarty

There are moments when enthusiasm sparks like a firework—you see an opportunity, feel confident, and want to grab it right away. The mind races with ideas, and you are ready to take the plunge. But then, a tiny voice whispers: “Wait… maybe I am not ready yet.” That is where the story begins.

Day 1

Wow, that’s amazing! I want to work on it. I have the skills to accomplish this project. Let me go and ask the concerned person and start working on it.
Hmm… Do I need to learn more about it? I think I will read a book, take a course, and learn more before discussing it.

Day 10

Yes, I know things. But someone may know it better. Should I go and ask? It’s okay, let me do it sometime later. Maybe next time. I may not be that good, actually; perhaps I should take up something else.

Day 20

Oh, I should have done it. Why do I wait like this? After doing all the necessary things and learning what was required, I missed asking. I think I am very good at procrastination. No idea why I behave like this! Let me focus on the tasks at hand.
And the situation goes on…
—- —- — —- —- —- —- —- —- —- —- —- —- —- —- —- —- —- —- —-
Have you ever faced such situations? When it happened to me, I thought it was procrastination. Little did I consider my behavior from any other angle—until I came across a LinkedIn training on Women’s Leadership.

Imposter Syndrome

Imposter Syndrome refers to a collection of feelings of inadequacy that persist despite evident success. The self-doubt and a sense of intellectual fraud override any feelings of achievement or external proof of competence. It becomes difficult to accept and appreciate accomplishments—even when one is successful in their field.

Research shows this is more evident in women, though it’s not limited to any gender. This syndrome can affect anyone—even top singers, actors, or highly successful professionals. It’s not directly linked to low self-esteem or lack of confidence.

How does it happen?

Your upbringing may influence it if you’ve struggled with this syndrome for a long time. But it can also develop in adulthood after a specific incident or situation. The behavior of people around you may push you into this mindset. It can occur at work, within a friend circle, or even at home.

In my case, after a good stint of success at work, I faced an unexpected situation that left me feeling let down and lost. Though I handled it bravely and acted as if nothing had happened, I now realize it left a scar on my mind.

It made me question my previous success, doubt my ability to do better, and hesitate to make decisions or say “No” when needed. I started avoiding risks and challenges that once excited me. I didn’t want to get noticed.

Initially, I thought I was procrastinating and tried to overcome it with action, but it didn’t work. Now I understand why: I wasn’t aware of this hidden feeling that fueled serious self-doubt and self-criticism.

Symptoms

• Overworking with extreme concentration and commitment to avoid failure, leading to unnecessary stress.
• Downplaying achievements: “Anyone can do this,” even when it’s not easy.
• Difficulty making decisions or disagreeing due to self-doubt.
• Attributing success to luck rather than skill.
• Feeling that accomplishments are “not a big deal.”

How to overcome it?

• Awareness: The first step is recognizing it. Observe and track these feelings.
• Talk About It: Discussing it with others brings clarity. You may learn from their stories and coping strategies.
• Remember: It’s temporary. Feeling inadequate won’t last forever. These thoughts have nothing to do with your true potential.
• Take Action: Start your journey to reclaim your confidence and authentic self.

Do you have any strategies that worked for you or someone you know? I’m trying my way with the points mentioned here—starting with awareness and writing about it.

Thanks to Carolyn Goerner for making me aware of Imposter Syndrome. Her insights triggered me to reflect on my behavior, observe how I have changed over time, and identify the root cause. Now, I am on my way to retrieve my original self.

—Anitha KC