There is a curious phenomenon that affects even those who, in the eyes of the world, have achieved success. It is called impostor syndrome and describes a deep sense of inadequacy and self-doubt, even in the face of unquestionable achievements. Those who suffer from this condition live with the constant fear of being exposed as a fraud, as if, at any moment, someone might realise that they are not, after all, as competent as they seem.
Now, a recent study from the University of Edinburgh has shed new light on this problem, suggesting that professional social networks such as LinkedIn may intensify this insecurity. In a world where professional validation is increasingly measured in likes, comments and shares, the question arises: are we building careers or illusions?
When exposure turns into self-doubt
The study, published in the journal Psychology and Marketing, analysed the behaviour of 506 LinkedIn users, all with higher education and an average age of 36. The researchers examined two key moments: browsing the feed and posting professional achievements. The results leave no room for doubt: both scenarios can trigger feelings of inadequacy, leading users to question their own competence.
Ben Marder, one of the study's authors, explains:
“Simply browsing the news feed or posting an achievement on LinkedIn is enough to trigger a reflection on our professional identity. Users believe that others see them more positively than they see themselves, which aggravates the impostor feeling.”
But how does impostor syndrome manifest itself in practice? The list of symptoms is long: difficulty accepting compliments, a need for perfection, constant comparison with others, fear of failure and, above all, the persistent feeling that success is down to luck, not merit.
Successful “impostors”
The most fascinating thing about this phenomenon is that it is not restricted to ordinary professionals. Many of the brightest minds in history have confessed to feeling like impostors. What to say, then, when even Albert Einstein admitted to doubting the relevance of his work? The physicist referred to himself as an “involuntary swindler”, believing that his fame was overrated.
Maya Angelou, the acclaimed writer and activist, felt that one day someone would discover that her talent was not real. Michelle Obama revealed that, on arriving at Princeton University, she felt she did not belong there. Tom Hanks, even after conquering Hollywood, confessed to fearing that one day someone would realise he is “not that good”. The same account comes from names such as Emma Watson, Lady Gaga and Tina Fey.
The question that arises is: if even the world's greatest talents suffer from this syndrome, how can mere mortals escape it?
Strategies for combating impostor syndrome
If professional social networks amplify insecurity, it is essential to adopt strategies to minimise their effects. Here are some suggestions:
Avoid excessive comparisons – Remember that what you see on LinkedIn is a carefully edited version of reality.
Set limits on your use of social networks – Do not fall into the trap of measuring your professional worth by the number of interactions you receive.
Celebrate your achievements – If you have achieved something, it is because you worked for it. Allow yourself to recognise the merit of your effort.
Talk about it – Sharing these insecurities with friends, mentors or psychologists can bring a new perspective.
Practise self-compassion – Accept that nobody is perfect and that making mistakes is part of the process of growth.
Impostor syndrome may not be a clinical diagnosis, but it has a real impact on the mental health of millions of people. And now, with the omnipresence of social media, the problem may be getting worse. Are we prepared to deal with this new dimension of self-doubt?
