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Rachel Bader, CEO PRESS Modern Massagefounder of wellness business consulting, a group of award-winning massage studios
Have you ever felt like you were an impostor despite your remarkable success? Are you afraid of
If so, you may be experiencing high performer syndrome. The phenomenon is characterized by persistent self-doubt and the belief that one’s achievements are unjust, and affects many high achievers in a variety of fields.
After seeing a presentation on Impostor Syndrome at the YEC Escape convention, I feel the need to make this concept more approachable to those who may disregard it as too “feminine” or unapproachable. I noticed that there is I started thinking about the concept of high performers and how we may experience the Great Impostor Syndrome and not want to admit it.
In this article, based on my experience and findings, I’ll take a deep dive into High Performer Syndrome, explore its root causes, and discuss effective strategies for overcoming it.
Understanding High Performer Syndrome
High performer syndrome is a psychological phenomenon in which people who have achieved great success in their respective fields find it difficult to incorporate that achievement into themselves. Instead, they attribute their achievements to external factors such as luck, timing, and the work of others. These high achievers tend to live in constant fear of being exposed as “impostors” and worry that they do not have the necessary skills and qualifications for their roles and accomplishments.
Causes of High Performer Syndrome
Several factors are involved in the development of high performer syndrome. One of the main factors is the unrealistic expectations that individuals set for themselves. High achievers set impossibly high standards for themselves and constantly compare themselves to others. They believe that any shortcoming or mistake invalidates their achievements, leading to feelings of inadequacy.
Another factor is the fear of failure. High performers are accustomed to success, and setbacks can amplify their self-doubt. They may fear that one failure will ruin all their achievements and perpetuate the cycle of feeling like an impostor.
External validation also plays an important role in the development of this syndrome. High achievers often rely on external praise and recognition to feel recognized. Receiving positive feedback can lead to further self-doubt by dismissing it as dishonest or questioning its authenticity.
Strategies for Overcoming High Performer Syndrome
1. Acknowledge and acknowledge your accomplishments. Take the time to reflect on your accomplishments and recognize the hard work, dedication, and expertise that contributed to your success. Record positive feedback and achievements as a reminder of your abilities in moments of self-doubt.
2. Reconstruct negative thoughts. Challenge your negative self-talk and replace it with positive, realistic affirmations. Remember that making mistakes and experiencing setbacks is part of the learning process and does not diminish your overall ability.
3. Accept your weaknesses. Share your feelings and concerns with a trusted friend, family member, or mentor. Sharing your fears can help you realize that you’re not the only one experiencing self-doubt, and you can get support and perspective from others.
4. Seek support and guidance. Surround yourself with a supportive network of people who can guide and reassure you. Mentors and colleagues who have gone through similar experiences can provide valuable insights and help overcome the challenges of high performer syndrome.
5. Celebrate progress, not just perfection. Shift your focus from striving for perfection to acknowledging and celebrating incremental progress. Embrace the learning process and understand that growth and development is a lifelong journey.
6. Practice self-care. Prioritize self-care activities that promote relaxation, mindfulness, and well-being. Hobbies, exercise, and spending time with loved ones can help reduce stress and foster a healthier mindset.
High performer syndrome is a common experience among successful people who struggle to internalize their accomplishments. It can be a debilitating cycle of self-doubt and fear of being exposed as a fraud. But by understanding the causes and implementing effective strategies, you can overcome high performer syndrome and embrace success with confidence and integrity.