Unmasking Authenticity: Unveiling the True You at the Centerstage

Unmasking the Duplicate: Unveiling Your True Identity at the Centerstage

Impostor syndrome, a psychological phenomenon first identified in 1978 by psychologists Pauline R. Clance and Suzanne A. Imes, is a mental state that affects many individuals, especially high-achievers, in the German-speaking world and beyond. Despite objective competence and achievements, those with impostor syndrome persistently doubt their own abilities, attribute their successes to luck or deception, and fear being exposed as a "fraud."

This mental health issue can lead to chronic stress, reduced self-esteem, and even mental health issues such as depression or burnout. It's important to note that impostor syndrome is not considered a mental illness, but it is recognised as a significant mental health concern.

Privilege can contribute to success, even for highly driven and hardworking individuals. However, impostor syndrome can be exacerbated by external factors, such as privilege. The cultural context for impostor syndrome may be rooted in discrimination against high-achieving individuals, especially women, in certain environments. A 2017 study found that feelings of impostorism exacerbate the impact of discrimination.

Signs of impostor syndrome include a sense of being a "fraud", self-doubt, low self-confidence, not giving oneself credit for progress or achievement, negative self-talk, comparing oneself to others, fear of being discovered as a fraud, and burnout in jobs or school due to overcompensating for perceived inadequacies.

Fortunately, there are strategies to cope with impostor syndrome. Working on self-understanding and acceptance is crucial. Separating fact from feelings is essential when dealing with impostor syndrome. Avoiding comparison, especially on social media, can help in managing this mental health issue.

Discussing with friends, talk therapy, and group therapy have been found to be particularly helpful. A 2020 study found that group therapy was especially helpful in preventing feelings of isolation. Negative self-talk can be a symptom of impostor syndrome, and it's important to tackle it.

Impostor syndrome has become a mainstream topic and is recognised as a mental health issue that life coaches and psychologists often address. Recognising the signs and seeking help can lead to a more fulfilled and less stressful life.