The ‘Impostor’ Syndrome – Sound Familiar?

Posted on February 2nd, 2009, by Meggin McIntosh, Ph.D.

Just what IS the “Impostor Syndrome/Phenomenon?”

My friend (and Life of E’s member) Dr. Julie-Ann McFann defines it thusly:

The term impostor phenomenon is used to designate an internal experience of intellectual phonies…despite outstanding academic and professional accomplishments, women who experience the impostor phenomenon persist in believing that they are really not bright and have fooled anyone who thinks otherwise. (Clance & Imes, 1978)

Dr. McFann asks:

Does the definition describe you? Would you like to overcome these emotions?

She is offering a one day tele-retreat to explore the sources of your “fraud talk,”examine how you currently cope with these sometimes debilitating emotions, and determine strategies for feeling as confident as other people think you are.

I know at least one other Life of E’s member has taken Julie-Ann’s class, so I’m hoping for some comments here. I know from hearing from someone who took the class that it’s amazing and ‘right on.’

If you’d like to register, just use this link and you can find out more.

I highly recommend it…it’s worth your time and the tiny financial investment. You’re worth it.