Imposter Syndrome

Introduction

Imposter syndrome. Most of us have felt it — that sneaking suspicion you don’t deserve your success, that at any moment someone will tap you on the shoulder and say, “We’ve figured it out. You don’t belong here.”

In the fast-paced world of tech, where innovation is constant and the stakes feel high, these feelings can thrive. And while imposter syndrome isn’t a clinical diagnosis, its impact on mental health is very real.

What is Imposter Syndrome?

Imposter syndrome is the internal belief that you’re not as competent as others perceive you to be. It can show up in many ways: discounting your success, fearing exposure as a “fraud”, or attributing achievements to luck instead of skill.

It affects people across all industries, roles, and seniority levels — but it’s particularly common in high-performance environments like tech.

How Common Is It?

According to a 2022 national study by Funding Guru, 62% of UK adults have experienced imposter syndrome at work in the past year. Among 18–34-year-olds, that figure rises to 86%.

In industries like tech, where knowledge quickly evolves and comparison is everywhere, those numbers are likely even higher.

The Link Between Imposter Syndrome and Mental Health

While imposter syndrome isn’t a mental illness, it can have serious effects on mental wellbeing. Over time, it can lead to:

• Chronic stress and anxiety
• Burnout, especially when individuals overwork to “prove themselves”
• Low self-esteem and feelings of inadequacy
• Avoidance behaviours, such as turning down opportunities out of fear
• Depression, in more severe or prolonged cases

A UCLA Health report notes that imposter syndrome can affect even the most outwardly successful professionals, creating a cycle of self-doubt and exhaustion.

5 Signs You Might Be Experiencing It

Not sure if what you’re feeling is imposter syndrome? Here are some common signs:

1. You downplay or dismiss your achievements.
2. You attribute success to luck or timing, not ability.
3. You fear being “found out” as incapable.
4. You struggle to accept praise or positive feedback.
5. You avoid new challenges, fearing you won’t measure up.

Recognising these patterns is the first step to overcoming them.

How to Manage Imposter Syndrome

What Can Employers Do?

Leaders and organisations play a critical role in addressing imposter syndrome in the workplace. Here’s how:

• Encourage open conversations about failure, growth, and learning.
• Celebrate effort and progress, not just outcomes.
• Offer access to mental health resources like counselling, coaching, or resilience training.
• Recognise contributions publicly — and regularly.

Creating a culture of psychological safety goes a long way in reducing imposter-related stress and building confidence across teams.

Conclusion

Imposter syndrome can be quiet but relentless — whispering that you’re not good enough, not ready, or just plain lucky. But here’s the truth: if you’re showing up, learning, growing, and contributing, you’re not an imposter — you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.

In fast-moving fields like tech, it’s easy to compare yourself to others and forget how far you’ve come. But your value isn’t measured by perfection or constant confidence. It’s measured by your willingness to grow, your curiosity, and the perspective only you can bring.

Whether you’re just starting out or deep into your career, imposter syndrome is something many of us face — but it doesn’t have to define your story.

Keep going. Keep learning. And most importantly, remind yourself: you do belong here.