Imposter syndrome — the persistent fear of being 'found out' as less capable than others believe — frequently co-occurs with and amplifies sport and competition.
The Sport and Competition-Imposter Syndrome Cycle
- Sport and Competition undermines confidence, making imposter thoughts more frequent and believable
- Imposter syndrome creates chronic self-doubt that worsens sport and competition
- Overwork and perfectionism (imposter coping strategies) deplete resources needed to manage sport and competition
Who Gets Imposter Syndrome with Sport and Competition?
Imposter syndrome is most common in high achievers and in people from underrepresented groups in their field. It's particularly prevalent in academic and professional contexts where sport and competition is also common.
Breaking the Sport and Competition-Imposter Cycle
- Keep an evidence file: Document compliments, successes, positive feedback
- Separate feelings from facts: Feeling like an imposter doesn't make you one
- Normalize it: Imposter syndrome is nearly universal among high achievers
- Therapy: CBT effectively addresses both imposter syndrome and sport and competition