The 5 characters of Imposter Syndrome

The Daily Drip

At least some of us have heard of Imposter Syndrome, but what's scary is that about 70% of us will experience it at some point in our careers.

Probably should figure out how to prep for that.

I found an author named Valerie Young who wrote The Secret Thoughts of Successful Women: Why Capable People Suffer From the Imposter Syndrome and How to Thrive in Spite of It.

I haven't read the book so I have no idea if it's any good, but the 5 characters she listed seemed useful to think about. There are some obvious overlaps in these characters, but I think you will still get the point.

Here are the 5 characters of Imposter Syndrome:

1. The Perfectionist

The perfectionist represents a person with imposter syndrome that strives to be their absolute best, no matter the cost to their mental health. These individuals may be identified as typical “perfectionists” who set impossibly high standards for themselves.

2. The Superwoman/man

The superwoman/man represents a person with imposter syndrome that often struggles with work addiction. This person may feel inadequate relative to colleagues and continue to push themselves as hard as possible, regardless of the consequences on mental, physical and emotional health.

3. The Natural Genius

The natural genius represents a person with imposter syndrome that not only struggles with perfectionism but also sets out to achieve lofty goals on their first try. These individuals feel unworthy, guilty and shameful if they cannot easily complete a task or achieve a goal on their first go.

4. The Soloist

The soloist represents a person with imposter syndrome that has extreme difficulties asking others for help. Perhaps they may feel that others are not as competent as themselves or that they must prove their own worth through their productivity.

5. The Expert

The expert represents a person with imposter syndrome that never feels good enough despite being extremely knowledgeable. This person may feel like they are less experienced than their colleagues if they do not know an answer or have knowledge on certain topics.


For me, I'm a little of each but a lot of #2.

Which character do you resonate with most?