EMPOWERED

CHAPTER 18Imposter Syndrome

I have a bit of a contrarian opinion on imposter syndrome.

First, I want to be clear that I'm not talking here about people who have a debilitating mental illness. I know people in this situation, and none would use the mild term “imposter syndrome” to describe the severe level of anxiety they deal with.

That said, let me be clear that I believe imposter syndrome, as most people use that term, is a very real thing. In fact, I think most mentally healthy people (at least those that aren't egomaniacs) doubt themselves and can feel insecure about asserting their opinions on others. I (Marty) like to emphasize to the people I coach that this is a normal and healthy fear, and I share that I absolutely still feel the same way.

Second, I think it's important to acknowledge that imposters are also a real thing. I find it very frustrating, especially in the product and design spaces, how many people on social media, authors of articles and books, and conference speakers are, at least in my personal opinion, advocating nonsense.

I think imposter syndrome is a very healthy and necessary emotion, and an important signal from our minds. But most people misunderstand that signal. They think it's just natural fear and insecurities, everyone has them, and they need to simply overcome their worries and push past them.

But I interpret this signal very differently. It is my mind warning me of the consequences if I don't do my homework and truly prepare. The fear of ...