Imposter syndrome at work

Updated November 9, 2026

Imposter syndrome is the lasting feeling that you're a fraud who will be found out, despite real evidence that you're good at your job. Psychologists Clance and Imes first described it in 1978, as the "impostor phenomenon". Counter it with evidence: keep a written record of your results, name the thought when it shows up, and talk about it with someone you trust.

What to do

1. Keep a "done" file. Every Friday, write down two things you finished and any praise you got. When the doubt hits, read it. Feelings argue; records don't.
2. Name the thought. When you think "they'll find out", tell yourself: "That's the imposter feeling, not a fact." Labeling it makes it easier to act anyway.
3. Separate learning from failing. Not knowing something in a new role is normal. Ask the question; that's how competent people get better.
4. Take praise in one word. Say "Thanks" instead of "It was nothing" or crediting luck. Then add it to your file.
5. Tell one peer or mentor. Say how you feel to one trusted colleague. Many will say they feel it too, and that alone shrinks it.
6. Define "good enough" up front. Perfectionism feeds the cycle. Agree on what done looks like before you start, and stop there.

What to say

To open up to a mentor or a trusted peer:

Can I be honest about something? Since I started this role, I keep feeling like I'm not good enough and that people will notice. Have you ever felt that way? I'd really like to hear how you handled it, and whether you see anything in my work I should worry about.

Avoid

• Overworking to prove you deserve the job, which wears you down and never feels like enough.
• Turning down stretch projects or promotions because you don't feel ready.
• Comparing how you feel inside with how everyone else looks from the outside.

Questions