The impostor syndrome or phenomena is the feeling of being an intellectual phony and is prevalent among high achieving persons. It is characterized by feeling unable to take credit for accomplishments, academic excellence, and recognition, as well as dismissing success as simply luck, good timing, or perseverance. So called impostors feel that they have fooled everyone and that they are not as smart or capable as everyone thinks. This, of course, is inaccurate.
How Do You Get Past the Impostor Syndrome?
Taking realistic and accurate assessments of your performance is key to moving past the impostor syndrome. Such assessments, however, are difficult. With each success, take time to jot down the specific actions that led to success as well as what experience and qualities underlies your success at completing each action.
Perhaps more important is to realize that you are not alone. Talk with other students. Talk about how you're doing and you'll learn about their successes, failures, and concerns. Social comparison can help you see that others are in the same boat - we all question our abilities at one time or another. The tough part is to not let those questions detract from our work and our sense of competence.
