Have you ever felt that you aren’t as good at your job as people think you are, that you don’t know what you’re doing, or that someone is going to call you out as unworthy of your role?
This is imposter syndrome: essentially, having feelings of inadequacy, despite your successes. It can lead to anxiety or stress about making mistakes or failing.
You might overthink your performance at work or feel upset when you don’t meet goals.
Imposter syndrome is not linked to a specific career stage – new entrants may feel the weight of what they don’t know, while those further into their career may worry that they aren’t deserving of the responsibilities they’ve been given.
Dana Andrew, the professional development manager at The Exhibitions Group, says: “If you feel that imposter syndrome is leading to self-sabotage, or preventing you from taking even small steps forwards towards your career goals, you might consider working with a mentor or coach, or going to a library to borrow one of the many books available on imposter syndrome.”
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If imposter syndrome is having an impact on your mental health and wellbeing, you may find it beneficial to seek professional support, especially if it’s leading to anxiety, stress or other difficult emotions.
It’s helpful to remember that imposter syndrome is a common experience. The chances are that you aren’t the only person in your workplace or professional network who has felt it. It can also be a sign that you care deeply about your job, and that you want to strive to do well.
“Try to remind yourself that you’re in your role for a reason,” says Patrick Whife, the policy and programmes director at the Institute of Conservation UK. “Someone recognised skills, potential or qualities in you that you may not yet see in yourself.”
Remember that no one knows everything and that everyone’s career involves continual learning.
“Feeling uncertain is not a sign that you don’t belong,” says Whife. “It’s a sign that you’re a fully rounded professional.”