Hi, I'm Dr. Ellen Hedrixen, and welcome to episode 25 of the savvy psychologist.

I'll help you meet life's challenges with evidence-based research, a sympathetic ear, and zero judgment.

We'll use the best of psychology to help you be happy, healthy, and most importantly yourself.

Can't take a compliment, feel like a fake,

convinced to be unmasked at any moment.

Welcome to the secret circle of high achievers suffering from imposter syndrome.

This week we'll discuss the three types of imposter syndrome

and the three most common ways it develops.

Then on Monday we'll have an extra bonus episode of the savvy psychologist

with nine tips to combat imposter syndrome.

So what is it?

Imposter syndrome is a pervasive feeling of self-doubt, insecurity, or fraudulent, despite

often overwhelming evidence to the contrary.

It strikes smart successful individuals, and it often rears its head after an especially notable accomplishment,

like admission to a prestigious university, public acclaim, winning an award, or earning a promotion.

Imposter syndrome doesn't discriminate.

People of every demographic suffer from feeling like a fraud, though minorities and women are hardest hit.

So imposter syndrome comes in three flavors.

Type number one is I'm a fake.

The fundamental fear here is being discovered or unmasked.

Achievers often feel like they've made it thus far under wraps,

but the day will come when their cover is blown.

...