In 1978, a paper in <Psychotherapy: Theory, Research, and Practice> introduced a concept now widely known as imposter syndrome—the persistent fear of being exposed as a fraud in professional life. Although the authors never used the term “syndrome,” the idea of the “imposter phenomenon” has resonated deeply, prompting reflection on personal self-doubt.
The issues with imposter syndrome
Pauline Clance and Suzanne Imes studied high-achieving, mostly white women, highlighting how imposter syndrome (or the imposter phenomenon) has helped many, especially women, unite over shared self-doubts at work. However, critics argue it overemphasizes individual behavior, neglecting structural issues like biases in hiring, promotion, leadership, and pay that disproportionately affect marginalized groups and foster feelings of inadequacy.
See, name, and act on self-doubt [SUBHEAD]
Understanding imposter syndrome offers insight into self-doubt and how to channel it for positive change. Self-doubt influences performance, sometimes motivating, sometimes debilitating. Recognizing when feelings are destructive involves tuning into emotions and physical sensations.
Self-doubt can feel overwhelming—more intense than normal nerves—and may cause feelings of being hijacked, with reduced clarity and emotional control. Physical symptoms like stress and anxiety often accompany these moments.
While self-doubt can motivate us to work harder, prolonged feelings can lead to burnout and reinforce negative cycles. Addressing these emotions requires awareness and action.
Moving forward
Severe cases of self-doubt can shut down our capacity to think productively and cause us to lose touch with true motivation and drive. One useful approach is to lean on the “three C’s”: courage, curiosity, and courage again.
For example, imagine feeling like you can’t ask a question at work because others might think it’s silly. Here’s how the three C’s can help:
- Have the courage to acknowledge your feelings and pause for reflection.
- Use curiosity to explore what’s fueling your doubt:
- Is someone specific making you uncomfortable?
- How have past experiences shaped your current expectations?
- Have the courage to test your feelings:
- Ask a small, non-threatening question.
- Observe the actual response versus your fears—often, it won’t be as negative as imagined.
By embracing these steps, you can begin to manage self-doubt constructively, turning it into an opportunity for growth rather than a barrier.
By Isabela Vera