Blog #8 | Part II: Understanding the Five Faces of Imposter Syndrome

In Part 1, we explored what imposter syndrome is and why it often affects high-achieving women. Now, let’s take a closer look at the diverse ways it might show up. Imposter syndrome doesn’t look the same for everyone—it often reflects our internal beliefs about what it means to be competent, capable, or successful.

Experts have named five common types of imposter syndrome. You might recognize yourself in one—or several—of these patterns:

1. The Perfectionist

You set incredibly high standards for yourself—and when you don’t meet them, you feel like a failure. Even when you succeed, it doesn’t feel “good enough.” Instead of celebrating your wins, you zero in on what could’ve been better. Your mindset: If it’s not perfect, it doesn’t count.

2. The Natural Genius

You’ve always been someone who picks things up quickly. Because of that, you assume your success only matters if it comes effortlessly. When something takes time or feels challenging, you begin to doubt your intelligence. Your mindset: If I were really smart, this would be easy.

3. The Soloist

You pride yourself on independence and feel uncomfortable asking for help. You believe that needing support is a sign of weakness, and when you can’t do it all on your own, you question your worth. Your mindset: If I can’t do it alone, I’m not enough.

4. The Expert

You believe you need to know everything before you can claim competence. You spend time over-preparing, researching, or pursuing one more certification—because if you don’t have all the answers, you feel like you are a fraud. Your mindset: If I don’t know everything, I’m not qualified.

5. The Superhero

You measure your worth by how well you juggle every role in your life—career, family, friendships, health, leadership, and more. If you struggle in any area, it feels like a total failure. Your mindset: If I can’t do it all—and do it well—I’m not good enough.

These internal narratives often stem from unrealistic expectations. They can be deeply ingrained, but they’re not facts—they’re beliefs. And beliefs can be changed.

Start by noticing which type(s) resonate with you. Then, take a step back and ask yourself:

• Where did this belief come from?

• Is it helping me grow—or holding me back?

• What would I say to a friend who felt this way?

Imposter syndrome thrives in silence. But when we explore these patterns with honesty and compassion, we begin to rewrite the stories we tell ourselves.

READ MORE IN UPCOMING BLOGS ON IMPOSTER SYNDROME