The Problem with 'Fake It Till You Make It' & How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome

I recently read a post where someone gave advice quoting 'Fake it till you Make it' as a tool for unlimited success, but I believe that this statement is a very dangerous way to approach any life goals, especially for anyone who suffers from imposter syndrome.

Imposter syndrome is a common feeling that affects many people, particularly high-achievers. Despite their accomplishments, individuals with imposter syndrome often feel like they are not as capable or intelligent as others, and that they've somehow tricked others into believing they are competent. This can be particularly challenging when trying to succeed in a new role or field.

As a sufferer of imposter syndrome it has taken many years for me to overcome the various levels of self doubt that creept into my everyday life. Along the path of self discovery I have found many effective tools for dealing with Imposter Syndrome, Fakie it Till you Make it was not one that I would recommend. The idea behind this advice is that by acting like you belong or are confident in what you're doing, eventually you'll start to believe it and become successful. However, recent studies suggest that this approach may be more harmful than helpful, especially for individuals with imposter syndrome.

According to a study published in the Journal of Business and Psychology, individuals who use "fake it till you make it" as a coping mechanism for imposter syndrome may actually feel more stressed and experience more negative emotions over time. The study found that when individuals try to act confident when they don't feel that way, they may actually feel like they are being dishonest or inauthentic. This can lead to increased anxiety and feelings of being a fraud.

Another study published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology found that individuals who experienced imposter syndrome were more likely to engage in procrastination and perfectionism, which can further reinforce their negative beliefs about themselves. The study also found that individuals who sought social support and validation from others were better able to overcome imposter syndrome and achieve success in their careers.

So, what can individuals with imposter syndrome do instead of faking it?

One approach is to acknowledge and address their feelings directly. This may involve seeking support from others, reframing their self-talk to focus on their strengths and achievements, and challenging their negative beliefs. By focusing on their personal growth and learning, individuals can overcome imposter syndrome and achieve success in a genuine and authentic way.

The advice to "fake it till you make it" can be problematic for individuals with imposter syndrome. As studies have shown, this approach can lead to increased stress and negative emotions over time.

Instead, I beleive that it's important to acknowledge and address these feelings directly, seek support from others, and focus on personal growth and learning.

With time and effort, you can overcome imposter syndrome and achieve success in a genuine and authentic way.

References:

1. Neureiter, M., & Traut-Mattausch, E. (2016). “Don’t fake it”: Evidence supporting the authenticity- performance link and the benefits of authenticity in the workplace. Journal of Business and Psychology, 31(3), 357-369. doi:10.1007/s10869-015-9411-1

2. Ferrari, J. R., & Thompson, T. (2006). Impostor fears, perfectionism, and procrastination among students: Are they related? Psychological Reports, 97(3), 900-902. doi:10.2466/pr0.97.3.900-902

3. Chen, F. Y., & Lien, Y. C. (2021). The influence of social support on the relationship between impostor syndrome and job outcomes: The moderating role of proactive personality. Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, 26(2), 105-116. doi:10.1037/ocp0000262

4. Carlson, E. D., & Engebretson, T. O. (2016). The effects of positive self-talk and mental imagery on feelings of fatigue in older adults.