Situation · Yourself

“I feel like a fraud at work”

What could be going on

Impostor phenomenon: Believing success is luck and fearing exposure fits; check whether evidence of competence changes anything.

Feels like an impostor despite results: Feeling fake despite real results fits this; check how you explain each win.

Discounting the positive: Fits if praise and results are dismissed as not counting; check what would count.

Perfectionism: Fits if anything short of flawless feels fake; check your standard for good enough.

Contingent self-worth: If worth depends on performing, every task feels like a test you might fail.

Role conflict and ambiguity: A new or unclear role can make anyone feel unsure; check whether expectations were ever spelled out.

Questions to carry

  1. Who was watching the last time I felt like a fraud, and what had just happened?
  2. Which proof of my ability do I keep explaining away?

Also said as

  • I'm scared they'll find out I'm not good enough
  • imposter syndrome
  • my wife has great results but thinks she's a fake
  • I feel like I don't deserve my job
  • I feel like I tricked everyone
  • I feel like a fake at my job

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