By Rachel Beider, CEO of PRESS Modern Massage, an award-winning group of massage studios, and the founder of Wellness Business Consulting
Have you ever felt like a fraud despite achieving remarkable success? Do you constantly doubt your abilities, fearing that others will discover you’re not as competent as they think?
If so, you may be experiencing high performer’s syndrome. This phenomenon, characterized by persistent self-doubt and the belief that one’s accomplishments are undeserved, affects numerous high achievers across various fields.
After watching a presentation at the YEC Escape convention on imposter syndrome, I realized that this concept needs to be made more accessible to people who might shrug off the concept as too “feminine” or inaccessible. I started thinking about the idea of high performers and how we go through major imposter syndrome but are sometimes loathe to admit it.
Based on my experience and findings, in this article, I will delve into the depths of high performer’s syndrome, explore its underlying causes and discuss effective strategies to overcome it.
Understanding High Performer’s Syndrome
High performer’s syndrome is a psychological phenomenon where individuals who have achieved significant success in their respective fields find it challenging to internalize their accomplishments. Instead, they attribute their achievements to external factors such as luck, timing or the work of others. These high achievers tend to live in constant fear of being exposed as “frauds” and worry that they do not possess the skills or qualifications necessary for their roles or achievements.
Causes Of High Performer’s Syndrome
Several factors contribute to the development of high performer’s syndrome. One primary factor is the unrealistic expectations individuals set for themselves. High achievers often hold themselves to impossibly high standards and constantly compare themselves to others. They believe that any shortcomings or mistakes invalidate their accomplishments, leading to feelings of inadequacy.
Another factor is the fear of failure. High performers are accustomed to success, and any setback can amplify their self-doubt. They may fear that one failure will undermine all their previous achievements, perpetuating the cycle of feeling like a fraud.
External validation also plays a significant role in the syndrome’s development. High performers often rely on external praise and recognition to feel validated. When they receive positive feedback, they may dismiss it as insincere or question its authenticity, further reinforcing their self-doubt.
Strategies To Overcome High Performer’s Syndrome
1. Recognize and acknowledge your achievements. Take time to reflect on your accomplishments and acknowledge the hard work, dedication and expertise that contributed to your success. Keep a record of positive feedback and achievements to remind yourself of your capabilities during moments of self-doubt.
2. Reframe negative thoughts. Challenge your negative self-talk and replace it with positive and realistic affirmations. Remember that making mistakes and experiencing setbacks is part of the learning process and does not diminish your overall competence.
3. Embrace vulnerability. Share your feelings and concerns with trusted friends, family or mentors. Opening up about your insecurities can help you realize that you are not alone in experiencing self-doubt and receive support and perspective from others.
4. Seek support and mentorship. Surround yourself with a network of supportive individuals who can provide guidance and reassurance. Mentors or peers who have gone through similar experiences can offer valuable insights and help you navigate the challenges of high performer’s 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 are lifelong journeys.
6. Practice self-care. Prioritize self-care activities that promote relaxation, mindfulness and well-being. Engaging in hobbies, exercise and spending time with loved ones can help alleviate stress and foster a healthier mindset.
High performer’s syndrome is a common experience among accomplished individuals who struggle to internalize their achievements. It can be a debilitating cycle of self-doubt and fear of being exposed as a fraud. However, by understanding the causes and implementing effective strategies, it is possible to overcome high performer’s syndrome and embrace your success with confidence and authenticity.
