PROMOTE & AMPLIFY
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Source: The New York Times | By Jessica Bennett
The term “impostor syndrome” was coined in 1978 by two American psychologists, Pauline Clance and Suzanne Imes. It describes that nagging feeling that you’re not good enough, that you don’t belong, that you don’t deserve the job, the promotion, the book deal, the seat at the table. Imposter syndrome is it is common among high achievers, creative people and students, especially women.
My impostor syndrome has played out during public speeches, job negotiations and when I received my first book deal — prompting me to ask, “But why would anyone pay money to read what I have to say?” My editor, a woman, didn’t miss a beat: “I often wonder the same about my editing!” she said.
So you’ve talked to yourself in the mirror and made lists of your accomplishments, and you still feel that impostor feeling creeping in. Here are
It’s important to remember: Failure doesn’t make you a fraud. Even the best athletes screw up, the best lawyers lose cases, the best actors star in busts. Failing, losing and being wrong on occasion are all part of the job. Don’t let it define you. Learn from your mistakes and move forward and believe in your abilities.
About the Author
Jessica Bennett is gender editor at The New York Times and the author of “Feminist Fight Club: A Survival Manual for a Sexist Workplace,” from which this piece is adapted. This article was part of a series of guides for working women brought to you by The New York Times and Bumble Bizz, a professional networking app by Bumble. See the full series at nytimes.com/workingwomen.
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