Imposter syndrome affects many, especially high achievers like PhDs, leading to self-doubt and anxiety. Strategies to combat it include maintaining a success journal, reframing negative thoughts, setting realistic goals, and building a supportive community to foster confidence and resilience.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Imposter syndrome affects individuals across all career stages and expertise levels, leading to lower confidence and emotional distress, particularly among women and underrepresented groups
• The syndrome has significant mental health impacts, including poor psychological well-being, distress, depression, and anxiety
• Women experience higher levels of imposter syndrome, which can negatively impact their productivity and organizational outcomes
• Effective strategies include accepting that perfection isn't possible, using daily affirmations, and fostering environments that promote psychological safety
• Discussion, reflection, and core-self-evaluation techniques can help normalize imposter episodes and make them more manageable