Julie was smart and competent, yet her less qualified colleagues surpassed her. Imposter syndrome held her back | The modern mind

By not seeking promotion, Julie never risked failure. Viewing her chronic self-doubt as a defence mechanism helped her challenge it

The modern mind is a column where experts discuss mental health issues they are seeing in their work

“I wish I could carry myself with the confidence of a politician. Especially a male one. They’re always so confident. Never rattled, completely immune to others’ opinions.”

Julie’s* intelligence and quick wit seemed to belie the very reason for attending therapy – despite reams of qualifications and years of professional experience, she felt dissatisfied with her work achievements. Having never put herself forth for a promotion, Julie had spent the better part of two decades being surpassed in position and remuneration by younger, less qualified (and mostly male) colleagues. Deflated and discouraged, Julie’s avoidance of career advancement only sought to reinforce negative self-beliefs about her intelligence and competence.

“I know I could do a higher role. Sometimes, I think I could do it with my eyes closed. But what if I can’t, and then I’m found out to be a fake?”