Archive · 25 Sep 2025
Imposter Syndrome: Feelings of Fraudulence Are Common
Imposter syndrome is when you feel like you're faking your success and that you don't deserve your achievements.
It's like you're wearing a mask and waiting for everyone to discover the real you, who you think isn't good enough.
This feeling can affect anyone, even people who are very successful, and it can make them feel anxious and stressed.
The good news is that it's a recognized issue, and there are ways to deal with it, such as talking to a therapist or coach.
Many people experience this feeling at some point in their lives.
Imposter syndrome involves a persistent sense of phoniness despite achievements.
The term was coined in 1978 by psychologists Pauline Clance and Suzanne Imes.
It affects high-achieving individuals, both men and women.
Individuals may attribute success to luck or external factors.
The syndrome is addressed through coaching and therapy.
- Who
- Individuals experiencing feelings of self-doubt and fraudulence, particularly in high-achieving settings.
- What
- Imposter Syndrome, a psychological phenomenon where individuals doubt their accomplishments and fear being exposed as a fraud.
- When
- The term was coined in 1978 and is still relevant today.
- Where
- Common in workplaces, educational institutions, and other environments where achievement is valued.
- Why
- To address the persistent sense of phoniness and self-doubt experienced by many successful individuals.
- Term Coined
- 1978
- Coined By
- Psychologists Pauline Clance and Suzanne Imes
- Initial Focus
- High-achieving women
- Impact
- Can lead to short-lived productivity