How do I deal with imposter syndrome at work?

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Deeper Global · Accepted Answer

Imposter syndrome at work makes you feel like you're fooling everyone into thinking you're more capable than you actually are, and that eventually, you'll be exposed as a fraud. This feeling is incredibly common, especially among high achievers, and often intensifies when you're in new roles, receiving recognition, or working in competitive environments. You might dismiss your successes as luck, timing, or having fooled people, while attributing others' achievements to genuine skill and intelligence. The fear of being 'found out' can lead to overworking, perfectionism, or avoiding opportunities that might reveal your perceived inadequacies. The truth is that most people feel this way sometimes, and the fact that you're worried about your competence often indicates that you care about doing good work. Start documenting your achievements, positive feedback, and successful projects so you have concrete evidence of your capabilities when self-doubt creeps in. Remember that everyone is learning and growing in their roles - competence isn't something you either have or don't have, but something you develop over time. Seek feedback from supervisors and colleagues to get a more realistic picture of your performance rather than relying on your own harsh self-assessment. Consider that you were hired for a reason and that your employer continues to value your contributions. Focus on learning and growth rather than trying to appear perfect. When you make mistakes, view them as normal parts of the learning process rather than evidence that you don't belong.