5 Types of Imposter Syndrome

In the July podcast, “Say Good-bye to Imposter Syndrome” I talked briefly about the 5 types of Imposter Syndrome. As promised, here is a more in-depth description of each of the 5 types. 
Below you will find a description of each as well as a few questions you can ask yourself to help determine if maybe it’s your type.
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The Perfectionist: Perfectionists set excessively high goals for themselves, and when they fail to reach a goal, they experience major self-doubt and worry about measuring up. Any small mistake will make them question their own competence.

• Have you ever been accused of being a micromanager?
• When you miss the (insanely high) mark on something, do you accuse yourself of “not being cut out” for your job and ruminate on it for days?
• Do you feel like your work must be 100% perfect, 100% of the time?

The Expert:  They measure their competence based on “what” and “how much” they know or can do. They often feel they need to know every piece of information before they start a project and constantly look for new certifications or training to improve their skills. They may hesitate to ask a question in class or speak up in a meeting at work because they’re afraid of looking stupid if they don’t already know the answer. 

• Do you shy away from applying to job postings unless you meet every single educational requirement?
• Are you constantly seeking out pieces of training or certifications because you think you need to improve your skills in order to succeed?
• Even if you’ve been in your role for some time, can you relate to feeling like you still don’t know “enough?”

The Natural Genius:  They natural genius believes they need to be a natural “genius.” Judging their competence on ease and speed as opposed to their efforts. If they take a long time to master something, they feel shame. They are used to skills coming easily, and when they have to put in the effort, their brain tells them that’s proof they’re an impostor.

• Do you dislike the idea of  having a mentor, because you can handle things on your own?
• When you’re faced with a setback, does your confidence tumble because not performing well provokes a feeling of shame?
• Do you often avoid challenges because it’s so uncomfortable to try something you’re not great at?

The Soloists:  They feel as though asking for help reveals their phoniness, so they refuse assistance to prove their worth.  They truly believe they have to accomplish tasks on their own, and if they need to ask for help, they think that means they are a failure or a fraud.

• Do you firmly feel that you need to accomplish things on your own?
• “I don’t need anyone’s help.” Does that sound like you?
• Do you frame requests in terms of the requirements of the project, rather than your needs as a person?

The Superman/Superwomen: They are convinced they’re phonies amongst real-deal colleagues.  They often push themselves to work harder and harder to measure up, to prove they are not imposters. They are addicted to the validation that comes from working, not to the work itself. 

• Do you get stressed when you’re not working and find downtime completely wasteful?
• Do you feel like you haven’t truly earned your title (despite numerous degrees and achievements), so you feel pressed to work harder and longer than those around you to prove your worth?
• Do you stay later at the office than the rest of your team, even past the point that you’ve completed that day’s necessary work?
  
  
  No matter the type, if you find yourself in one of the profiles you are not alone.  Studies suggest that 70% of people experience imposter syndrome at some point, especially as it relates to their career.
  If you haven't listened to my podcast please take a listen, for ways to say good-bye to imposter syndrome. I would also encourage to download my imposter syndrome worksheet on the website under resources. Today is a great day to make steps to addressing imposter syndrome and start accepting and embracing your capabilities.

Until Next Time~
J.Branch