Imposter syndrome facts for kids

Imposter syndrome is a way of thinking where someone believes their achievements are just luck, not because of their actual skills. They often worry they will be found out as a "fraud" or "imposter" who doesn't truly deserve their success.

What is Imposter Syndrome?

Imposter syndrome is a common feeling where you doubt your abilities and feel like a fake. Even if you're really good at something, you might think you just got lucky or tricked everyone into thinking you're smart. It's like wearing a mask and being afraid someone will pull it off to reveal the "real" you, who isn't as capable as they seem.

This feeling can make you worry a lot. You might think, "I don't belong here," or "Soon, everyone will realize I'm not good enough." It's not about actually being a fraud, but about feeling like one inside your own head. Many people, even very successful ones, have felt this way at some point.

Who Feels Like an Imposter?

Anyone can experience imposter syndrome, no matter how smart or talented they are. It often shows up when you start something new, like a new school, a new team, or a new project. You might feel like everyone else knows what they are doing, and you're the only one who doesn't.

Even famous and successful people have talked about feeling like imposters. For example, the famous writer and poet Maya Angelou once said, "I have written 11 books, but each time I think, 'Uh oh, they're going to find out now. I've run a game on everybody, and they're going to find me out.'" This shows that even people admired by millions can have these doubts.

It's common among students, especially when they move to a higher grade or start college. They might feel overwhelmed and think they're not smart enough to keep up. People in new jobs or leadership roles also often feel this way.

Why Do People Feel This Way?

There are a few reasons why someone might develop imposter feelings:

• Perfectionism: If you always try to be perfect, you might feel like nothing you do is ever good enough. When you make a mistake, it can feel like proof that you're not as good as others think.
• Comparing Yourself: In today's world, it's easy to compare yourself to others, especially online. You might see only the successes of others and feel like you don't measure up. Remember, everyone has struggles they don't always share.
• New Challenges: When you step out of your comfort zone and try something new, it's natural to feel a bit unsure. If you succeed, you might think it was just luck because you didn't feel confident at the start.
• Praise: Sometimes, getting a lot of praise can even make imposter syndrome worse. You might think, "They're praising me, but they don't know how much I struggled," or "I don't deserve this much credit."

Dealing with Imposter Feelings

If you ever feel like an imposter, remember that you are not alone. Many people feel this way, and there are ways to manage these feelings:

• Talk About It: Share your feelings with a trusted friend, family member, or teacher. Often, just talking about it can make you feel better and realize others feel the same way.
• Recognize Your Successes: Keep a list of your achievements, big or small. When you feel like a fraud, look at this list to remind yourself of what you've accomplished through your own effort and skill.
• Focus on Effort, Not Just Outcome: Instead of only thinking about the final result, appreciate the hard work you put in. Even if something didn't go perfectly, your effort is still valuable.
• Learn from Mistakes: Everyone makes mistakes. Instead of seeing them as proof you're not good enough, see them as chances to learn and grow.
• Don't Compare: Try to avoid comparing your "behind-the-scenes" struggles with other people's "highlight reels." Everyone has their own journey.
• Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate your progress, no matter how small. This helps build confidence over time.

Remember, imposter syndrome is a feeling, not a fact. You are capable and deserving of your successes.

Images for kids

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  It is common for imposters to feel their true identity will be revealed under their perceived fraudulent mask.

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  Maya Angelou: "I have written 11 books, but each time I think, 'Uh oh, they're going to find out now. I've run a game on everybody, and they're going to find me out.'"

See also

In Spanish: Síndrome del impostor para niños