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Advice / Succeeding at Work / Getting Ahead

Are You Holding Yourself Back at Work?

What do Tina Fey, Sheryl Sandberg, Maya Angelou, Emma Watson, and a majority of Harvard Business School students have in common? Despite their obvious and widely recognized achievements, they’ve all suffered from the imposter syndrome—a nagging feeling that whatever they do, it’s only a matter of time before others discover they’re not as amazing as they appear.

You’ve probably heard of advice like “fake it ’til you make it.” But the truth is, famous celebrities aside, many people still feel like they’re faking it, even after they’ve made it. Even after impressive jobs, titles, or a string of career successes, they just can’t shake off that feeling of self-doubt.

Imposter syndrome is more common than you think. It’s incredibly widespread among Type A, career-oriented people, and especially women. But if this sounds remotely like you, you’re in good hands. We’ve gathered together everything you need to get up to speed and tackle imposter syndrome once and for all.