Ever felt like a fraud when trying to project utter professionalism? That sinking feeling that you’re winging it, and that – sooner rather than later – everyone’s going to find out? You’re not alone. (And in all honesty… who hasn’t felt like they’re making things up as they go along, at one point or another?)
This feeling isn’t new. In fact, psychologists Dr. Pauline R. Clance and Dr. Suzanne A. Imes coined it ‘imposter syndrome’ back in 1978, in their paper titled “The Impostor Phenomenon in High Achieving Women: Dynamics and Therapeutic Intervention.” In this paper, Clance and Imes described their observations of high-achieving women who, despite having external evidence of their competence and accomplishments, experienced persistent self-doubt and a sense of intellectual fraudulence. Clance later continued to research and write about imposter syndrome, expanding her work to include both men and women.
The concept of imposter syndrome has since gained widespread recognition and is used to describe the phenomenon of individuals – regardless of gender – who doubt their abilities and fear being exposed as “impostors” despite evidence of their competence. The degree and nature of this fear can vary among individuals. While some people with imposter syndrome may have a strong fear of exposure, others may primarily experience feelings of fraudulence without an intense fear of being discovered. It’s a complex psychological phenomenon that can manifest in various ways, and not everyone with imposter syndrome will have the same exact feelings or fears.
The numbers bit
Today, approximately 3 in 5 workers say they’ve experienced feelings of imposter syndrome, with women and younger people disproportionately more likely to have feelings of self-doubt, according to a report from jobsite, Indeed. The findings from Indeed’s Working on Wellbeing report are based on a YouGov survey of 2,500 UK workers around mental health and highlight how workers still are not getting the support needed from their employer. Imposter syndrome is one of the most common mental health issues in today’s workplace.
Is imposter syndrome common amongst entrepreneurs?
Yes, imposter syndrome is quite common among entrepreneurs and small business owners. In fact, the entrepreneurial journey often brings about unique challenges and circumstances that can exacerbate imposter syndrome. Here are some reasons why:
- High levels of responsibility. Entrepreneurs typically bear significant responsibility for the success of their businesses. The weight of decision-making and the financial implications of their choices can lead to self-doubt and fears of inadequacy.
- Risk and uncertainty. Starting and running a business is inherently risky and uncertain. Entrepreneurs often venture into uncharted territory, where outcomes are unpredictable and the fear of failure can be overwhelming.
- Comparisons to others. Entrepreneurs frequently compare themselves to more established businesses or other successful entrepreneurs, which can intensify feelings of inadequacy. The constant exposure to success stories in the media and on social platforms can contribute to unrealistic standards.
- Lack of formal training. Many entrepreneurs do not have formal training or education in business management or entrepreneurship. This can lead to feelings of being ill-prepared or unqualified.
- Wearing multiple hats. Small business owners often handle various roles within their companies, from marketing and sales to finance and operations. This multifaceted responsibility can create feelings of being an imposter in one or more of these roles.
- External expectations. Entrepreneurs may feel pressure to meet the expectations of investors, customers or employees, which can heighten their fear of not measuring up.
- Fear of exposure. Entrepreneurs often fear that their lack of experience or knowledge will be exposed, especially in situations where they need to secure funding, negotiate contracts or make high-stakes decisions.
- A desire for perfection can be a common trait among entrepreneurs, as they want to create successful businesses. However, this pursuit of perfection can lead to imposter syndrome when they perceive any imperfection as evidence of inadequacy.
Impact on mental health
Imposter syndrome can have a significant impact on mental health and overall well-being. It often leads to a range of negative emotional and psychological consequences, including:
- Individuals with imposter syndrome frequently experience high levels of anxiety. They are constantly worried about being exposed as frauds or failures, which can manifest as generalised anxiety, social anxiety or performance anxiety.
- The chronic self-doubt and fear of failure associated with imposter syndrome can contribute to feelings of sadness and hopelessness, potentially leading to clinical depression in some cases.
- Low self-esteem. Imposter syndrome can erode self-esteem and self-worth. Individuals may develop a negative self-image, feeling inadequate and unworthy of their achievements or positions.
- Many strive for perfection in an attempt to prove their worth. This perfectionism can be paralysing and lead to burnout, as individuals often set unrealistically high standards for themselves
- The constant pressure to maintain the facade of competence while feeling like a fraud can result in chronic stress. Stress, if left unmanaged, can have physical and mental health implications.
- Fear of not meeting high expectations can lead to procrastination as individuals may avoid tasks they perceive as challenging or fear they might fail at.
- Self-sabotage. Some individuals may engage in self-sabotaging behaviours, such as turning down opportunities for advancement, underestimating their abilities or avoiding situations where they might be evaluated.
- Imposter syndrome can lead to feelings of isolation as individuals may withdraw from social and professional networks out of fear of being exposed as impostors. This can further exacerbate feelings of loneliness and alienation.
- Negative thought patterns. The persistent negative thought patterns associated with imposter syndrome can contribute to cognitive distortions, such as catastrophising and all-or-nothing thinking, which can worsen mental health.
- Career and relationship impact. It can hinder career advancement and success, as individuals may avoid taking on challenging roles or self-promotion opportunities. It can also strain personal relationships, as self-doubt and insecurity may spill over into interpersonal interactions.
