Imposter Syndrome is a common experience that affects people of all ages, backgrounds and levels of success. Research has shown that personality traits can play a role. In this article, Georgia Messih explores the connection between personality traits and Imposter Syndrome.
Have you ever experienced the nagging feeling that your accomplishments are just a stroke of luck? Do self-doubt and constant second-guessing have you questioning your every decision? If so, you’re not alone. According to renowned psychologist Dr Jessamy Hibberd, millions of people around the world suffer from Imposter Syndrome. There are different causes of Imposter Syndrome, but one of the most interesting is the relationship between the Imposter Syndrome Archetypes by Dr Valerie Young and the influential Big Five Personality Framework. We aim to shed light on the connection between personality traits and Imposter Syndrome.
The Perfectionist
Is diligent, organised and constantly strives for excellence. They set unrealistic standards for themselves, which makes them highly conscientious. With unrealistic personal high standards, they fear failure or ‘falling short’ and become self-critical. As a result, they feel inadequate, pushing themselves to try to improve constantly.
The Natural Genius
Has a high degree of openness and a degree of extraversion. Their talent is learning new things quickly, synthesising information and doing well in what they put their mind to. However, they have difficulty facing challenges or struggles. They often doubt themselves because they don’t recognise or appreciate their efforts and abilities, which they attribute to ‘good luck’, often leading to imposter feelings.
The Expert
Often highly conscientious and agreeable, with a need to accumulate knowledge and know-how. They seek constant validation by having others recognise their ‘expertise’. This way, they convince themselves they are ‘good enough’ and eliminate self-doubt and insecurity.
The Soloist
Introversion and a little neuroticism characterise the Soloist. Preferring to work independently, they tend to downplay their achievements. They are uncomfortable with self-promotion and taking centre stage, leading to anxiety, self-doubt and inadequacy about their capability and value, especially if they’re not recognised for their contributions.
The Superwoman/Superman
Possesses high conscientiousness, neuroticism, and agreeableness. These individuals take on multiple roles and set high standards for themselves and others. However, the constant pressure to excel in all areas of life often can bring a deep sense of being fraudulent and inadequate, as they believe they’re being deceitful by not living up to their standards.
Personality is the complex interplay of our thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. When it comes to Imposter Syndrome, certain traits tend to contribute to its development more so than others. These traits include high standards and fear of failure, perfectionism and self-criticism, attribution bias and discounting success. Behaviours indicating Imposter Syndrome often include overachievement and constant striving, persistent self-doubt and negative self-talk and a dependency on external validation.
Understanding the relationship between Imposter Syndrome and personality can help individuals identify the factors contributing to imposter syndrome and develop strategies for overcoming these. For example, individuals high in openness, setting realistic goals and embracing the idea that it is impossible to know everything can be transformative. Individuals high in neuroticism can embark on a journey of self-discovery by shifting their focus towards their strengths rather than anxieties.
There are many strategies you can explore to cope and deal with Imposter Syndrome. By understanding the connection between your personality traits and your unique Imposter Syndrome archetype, you can embrace your strengths, navigate your self-doubts, and can take significant strides towards overcoming them.
Georgia is a skilled and dynamic personality profiler, coach and facilitator with a background in human resources and change management that engages leaders, teams and individuals. With over two decades of diverse industry experience, Georgia specialises in empowering leaders to understand their unique leadership style and the driving forces behind their behaviours, decisions and actions. Georgia facilitates the development of stronger team dynamics by executing strategies that drive better performance. Driven by her belief that leaders, teams and individuals can always “Be More”, Georgia draws on a multitude of practices that makes her approach powerful and unique that deliver many “aha” moments.
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Website: www.georgiam.com.au
