Imposter Syndrome Blog
Blog posts and information on Imposter Syndrome and related topics including worry and self-doubt, perfectionism, procrastination, and self-criticism.
Understanding Imposter Syndrome What exactly is the imposter phenomenon? Answer: What most people call “imposter syndrome” was originally described by psychologists Pauline Clance and Suzanne Imes in 1978 as the impostor phenomenon. They were careful not to call it a syndrome or disorder, because it’s not an illness. It’s a common, deeply human experience where […]
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A Client’s experience of therapy for Imposter Syndrome Many people assume that anxiety means feeling nervous all the time. In reality, anxiety often hides behind a confident exterior. This story – shared with permission and anonymised for privacy – shows how therapy can help someone struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, and imposter feelings at work to […]
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Therapy in Rainham, Kent When you’re looking for therapy, you might be wondering whether to work with someone in person or online.Both can be hugely effective, and I offer both, but there are unique benefits to in-person therapy in Rainham, Kent that can make it an especially powerful choice for some people. In this post, […]
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How the Intolerance of Uncertainty fuels Imposter Syndrome We all deal with uncertainty. But if you find yourself constantly second-guessing, worrying what others think, or over-preparing to avoid mistakes, it’s likely that uncertainty isn’t just present-it feels risky, uncomfortable, and unbearable. This is what I often see at the heart of imposter syndrome: a struggle […]
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Uncertainty Isn’t the Enemy – But Our Response to It Can Be If you find yourself stuck in overthinking, worrying about what others might think, or endlessly tweaking your work so it feels “just right,” you’re not alone. These are common experiences for people who struggle with self-doubt, anxiety, and imposter syndrome – and they […]
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Why Imposter Syndrome Is More Normal Than You Think – And What You Can Do About It You might look capable and confident on the outside, but inside, there’s a quiet voice whispering: “What if I’m not really good enough? What if they’re about to find out I’m faking it?” That feeling has a name […]
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The Hidden Cost of Imposter Syndrome at Work (And How to Break Free) You might look like you’ve got it all together on the outside – competent, calm, capable.But inside? It’s a different story. Quiet self-doubt, second-guessing, and a fear that at some point, you’ll be exposed as not good enough. If this sounds familiar, […]
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Which Type of Imposter Are You? Understanding the 5 Patterns Identified by Dr Valerie Young Imposter syndrome can show up in all sorts of sneaky and frustrating ways, and often without us even realising that’s what’s happening. One moment you’re doing well on the outside, the next you’re questioning your worth, brushing off compliments, or […]
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Self-Compassion & Acceptance: Key Ingredients in Overcoming Imposter Syndrome Introduction Imposter syndrome often shows up like a persistent inner critic. You’ve worked hard, earned your place, and yet there’s that lingering thought: “What if I’m not actually good enough?” It can feel like you’re one step away from being exposed as a fraud even when […]
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The Three Circles: Understanding the Emotional Systems Behind Imposter Syndrome When you’re caught in the grip of imposter syndrome, it can feel like a constant battle in your mind – the fear of being exposed, the pressure to prove yourself, the struggle to feel calm or confident. Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) offers a helpful way […]
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