The 5 types of imposter syndrome

According to research at least 70% of the population are going to experience Imposter Syndrome at least once in their life time.

And it manifests differently for all of us.  

For some it's the chronic overthinking of whether you said the ‘right’ thing in the meeting, for others it's the worry about whether you'll be able to meet people's expectations again and again or the worry about what people think of you.

So which type of Imposter Syndrome is showing up for you? (and there may be more than one!)

The Perfectionist

If this is you, you judge yourself on how you do things. But the thing is you're striving for a standard that doesn't exist. And when you don't meet this standard (because it's virtually impossible) you criticise yourself for not achieving them

The Natural Genius

You're my people where things come naturally and effortlessly to you. You're used to achieving things without too much work behind it and so if something does require more work it goes against your belief “that you can handle anything”. And you'll probably feel ashamed that you couldn't do something straight away.

The Soloist

‘Should’ features heavily in your vocabulary and you live life believing that you ‘should’ be able to handle anything on your own. And the thought of asking for help isn't an option because that would mean admitting that you're not capable.

The Expert

My experts in the ‘room’ like to feel prepared before presenting, leading or sharing an update. You have an expectation that you should have all of the answers and if you don't, you'll end up feeling like a fraud.

The Superhero

Are you doing it all? Are you capable of being a friend, partner, manager, friend so much that you keep pushing your limits in every role you take on? And when you get moments where you feel you can't meet every demand, it leaves you feeling in adequate?

Once you're aware of how and where it shows up, you can learn the tools to do it differently.

Here is your journal prompt so take 5, grab your phone, a notepad or record your thoughts on an audio and spend time reflecting on this question…

‘HOW IS IMPOSTER SYNDROME SHOWIING UP IN YOUR LIFE?’

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