The Imposter Cure

• Imposter syndrome was first described by two clinical psychologists in 1978. 
• They coined the term ‘imposter phenomenon’, a condition in which people believe they are not worthy of success and have a persistent belief in their lack of intelligence, skills, or competence.
• Imposter syndrome involves much more than just feeling fraudulent and it presents itself in a long list of different ways. It may appear as insecurity, self-doubt, fear of failure, and perfectionism. Or as self-criticism, low self-esteem, an inability to accept compliments.

• Imposter syndrome can be triggered by any achievement or approval-related task or as a result of feeling insecure about your knowledge or skills, particularly when you work in a competitive atmosphere and when responsibilities increase.
• It tends to be more intense during times of transition or change, or when you are faced with new challenges (a new job, project, or being accepted into higher education). This pushes you out of your comfort zone into new routines and puts you under increased scrutiny.
• The syndrome can also occur when you feel different from the core group you are part of.

Imposter syndrome normally occurs when there is a tension between two views: the standards you set yourself and how you assess yourself as doing.

The high standards you set yourself are a large part of the problem, as is the negative internal voice you use to motivate yourself. You expect that you need to be the best and do everything flawlessly in your career, relationships, and personal life.