Imposter syndrome is characterized by self-doubt and a sense of fraudulence. High achievers are disproportionately affected because they struggle to accept their success. Many successful people suffer from impostor syndrome. Impostor syndrome is the feeling that you're a fraud–and that you'll be “found out” if you don't work longer and harder than everyone else. You may believe that others are more qualified than you, and every time you succeed, you're not confident you can do it again. Many people ponder if they merit praise.
Though it is not a true mental health issue but this term —also known as the "imposter phenomenon," "fraud syndrome," or "imposter experience"—refers to a person who doubts their own abilities and worries that they'll be exposed as a fraud. Impostor syndrome contributes to psychological distress, continued self-monitoring, increased self-doubt, and persistent fears of failure.
People with impostor syndrome doubt their achievements and ability and fear that they may be a fraud. Impostor syndrome can affect anyone, regardless of job or social status, but high-achieving individuals often experience it. I spent a lot of my life with impostor syndrome.
