7-Point Self-Assessment: Do I Have Imposter Syndrome?
Have you ever wondered whether the self‑doubt you feel has a name—or if others experience it too?
Imposter syndrome is incredibly common, even though it often feels isolating. It’s typically marked by persistent self‑doubt, fear of failure, and the belief that you must overprepare to avoid being “found out” as inadequate or flawed. Ironically, it shows up most often in high‑achievers and people who are viewed as very successful from the outside.
Being able to name what you’re experiencing is powerful. Once you can identify the pattern, you can begin to change it.
Below is a simple self‑assessment to help you explore whether imposter syndrome may be influencing your thoughts, behaviors, or confidence.
7 Statements to Help You Identify Imposter Syndrome
Read each statement and note whether it feels true or false for you:
I constantly question or criticize my skills and intelligence, even when others see them as strong.
I fear being exposed as a fraud, even when I’m competent.
I attribute my successes to luck, timing, or other external factors—not my own abilities.
I procrastinate or get stuck in “analysis paralysis” because I’m afraid of failing.
I over‑prepare or overwork to compensate for feeling “not enough.”
I’ve been described as a perfectionist—or I recognize perfectionistic tendencies in myself.
I struggle to accept compliments and often downplay or dismiss my accomplishments.
If several of these statements resonate with you, you may be experiencing imposter syndrome.
Want a More Formal Assessment?
If you’d like to explore this further, there are validated psychometric tools designed to measure imposter syndrome, including:
Harvey Imposter Phenomenon Scale (HIPS)
Perceived Fraudulence Scale (Kolligian & Sternberg)
Clance Imposter Phenomenon Scale (CIPS)
The first two require purchase, but the CIPS is freely available here.
Thankfully, imposter syndrome can be addressed by learning a new approach and tools - a new understanding and skills that lead to a life of greater peace, self-acceptance, and an enhanced ability to appreciate accomplishments and the current moment.
