You’re Not the Problem: Understanding the Roots of Impostor Syndrome

Imagine This

Jasmine had just been promoted to lead her department’s new strategic initiative.

On paper, she was the perfect choice—experienced, creative, and consistently praised by leadership.

But on her first day in the new role, Jasmine sat in the conference room filled with senior colleagues and felt a rising sense of panic.

“I don’t belong here,” she thought. “They’re going to figure out I’m not really leadership material.”

She double-checked her talking points, hesitated before speaking, and deferred to others—even when she had better ideas. Over the next few weeks, Jasmine began putting in extra hours and avoiding visibility, afraid that asking for help would “expose” her as unqualified.

Jasmine’s experience is far from unique. Despite being competent and capable, many employees, especially those from historically marginalized groups, experience impostor syndrome in workplaces that don’t actively cultivate psychological safety, inclusion, and belonging.

Understanding Impostor Syndrome

Originally identified by Dr. Pauline Clance through her work with high-achieving women, impostor syndrome describes the persistent fear of being exposed as a "fraud" despite clear evidence of competence and success. While early research focused on professional women, we now understand that its reach extends far beyond gender lines.

Studies indicate that impostor syndrome disproportionately affects individuals from underrepresented backgrounds. This isn't a coincidence—it's the result of systemic factors that create additional barriers to belonging.

When you're often the "only one" in the room, when your perspectives are questioned more frequently, or when you don't see yourself reflected in leadership, those impostor thoughts can feel especially loud. The syndrome becomes not just about individual self-doubt, but about navigating spaces that weren't originally designed for you.

Impostor syndrome affects approximately 70% of people at least once in their lives, but its impact isn't felt equally across all communities.

Breaking the Impostor Cycle

Understanding the impostor cycle is crucial for breaking free from it. Here is how it often happens:

1. A challenge arises, triggering anxiety and self-doubt
2. You either over-prepare extensively or procrastinate, then work intensely
3. Task completion brings temporary relief
4. Positive feedback arrives but gets dismissed or minimized
5. Success gets attributed to luck, timing, or excessive effort—never ability
6. The cycle repeats with the next challenge

This pattern doesn't just affect individual confidence—it can lead to burnout, missed opportunities, and a persistent sense of not belonging in spaces where you absolutely deserve to be.

The Professional Cost

In workplace settings, impostor syndrome often manifests as:

• Overworking: Putting in excessive effort far beyond what quality work requires.
• Self-defeating thoughts: Viewing success as increasing the risk of exposure rather than celebrating achievements.
• Perfectionism: Setting impossible standards as a protective mechanism.
• Dismissing praise: Finding reasons why positive feedback isn't deserved.
• Self-sabotage: Avoiding advancement opportunities despite being fully qualified.

Research-Backed Strategies for Moving Forward

If these patterns feel familiar, remember: experiencing impostor syndrome doesn't reflect a personal failing—it often reflects the challenges of succeeding in systems that weren't built with you in mind. Here are proven strategies to help:

 1. Name It When You Feel It. Self-awareness is your first tool. Notice when impostor thoughts arise and the situations that trigger them. Simply acknowledging "That's my impostor syndrome talking" can reduce their power over you.

 2. Break the Silence. Impostor syndrome thrives in isolation. Share your experiences with trusted colleagues, mentors, or friends. You'll often discover that others—especially those from similar backgrounds—share these feelings.

 3. Practice Self-Compassion. Treat yourself with the kindness you'd show a friend facing similar challenges. When negative thoughts emerge, reframe them: "Feeling uncertain doesn't mean I'm actually incompetent."

 4. Reframe Setbacks as Learning. As Michael Jordan said, failing "over and over again" was key to his success. Each challenge provides valuable information for growth. Ask yourself: "What can this experience teach me?"

 5. Stop Minimizing Your Achievements. You earned your position through capability and hard work. Your accomplishments aren't accidents—they reflect your skills, determination, and value.

 6. Document Your Wins. Keep a comprehensive record of your achievements, skills, and positive feedback. Review this list regularly, especially before new challenges. This concrete evidence counters impostor feelings with facts.

 7. Embrace Being a Learner. No one has all the answers—not even those who seem most confident. Let go of the pressure to know everything and instead celebrate your willingness to grow and adapt.

 8. Be Human. Everyone makes mistakes. Give yourself permission to be imperfect while still recognizing your worth and contributions.

Final Thoughts: Moving Toward Authentic Belonging

Impostor syndrome isn't just about individual psychology—it's often a rational response to being in environments where you face additional scrutiny or where few people share your background.

Remember that your presence in professional spaces isn't accidental. You bring unique perspectives, experiences, and talents that enrich every team and organization. When impostor thoughts arise, remember that diversity of thought and background drives innovation and success.

You belong in every room you enter. Your achievements are valid. Your voice matters. And the next time doubt creeps in, remember that even the most accomplished people experience these feelings—it doesn't make your success any less real or deserved.

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This article is based on research by Dr. Pauline Clance, Sakulku and Alexander (2011), Harvey and Katz (1985), and others who have studied impostor syndrome.

For more information, consider taking Dr. Clance's self-assessment at http://paulineroseclance.com/pdf/IPscoringtest.pdf to determine the extent of your impostor syndrome characteristics.