By now, most of us have heard of ‘imposter syndrome.’ It’s the idea that you’re not as capable as others think you are and that you’re really ‘getting away with something,’ and it’s a common topic in the workplace wellbeing space.
But what if there’s more to it than that? New research out of the University of Virginia suggests it’s time for a more helpful perspective. The research team there propose shifting from the term “imposter syndrome” to “workplace imposter thoughts,” a term that more accurately reflects what’s going on when we feel like an imposter at work.
Here’s what their review of nearly 50 years of research reveals about workplace imposter thoughts:
They are temporary, not permanent. They are often fleeting and situational, not a fixed personality trait. So the next time you find yourself doubting your abilities, despite the evidence to the contrary, just remember that the anxiety you’re experiencing will pass.
They aren’t always harmful. Contrary to popular belief, these thoughts don’t automatically lead to negative outcomes. In fact, recent studies show that people who experience them can be perceived as more interpersonally effective at work, without being seen as any less competent.
They can be a sign that others value you. At its core, the experience of feeling like an imposter stems from a belief that others overestimate your abilities. In other words, it can be a sign that your colleagues and managers think highly of you and your work.
So, what does this mean for you? Feeling like an “imposter” is not a character flaw. Often, it’s a natural response to new challenges, promotions, or stepping outside your comfort zone. Rather than a warning sign, it can be a signal that you are growing.