Skip to content
Search

Latest Stories

American model Emily Ratajkowski reveals experiencing imposter syndrome – All you need to know about this condition

“The people in your life who love you are a precious gift; treat them as such, enjoy them as such, celebrate with them,â€� – Emily Ratajkowski

American model Emily Ratajkowski reveals experiencing imposter syndrome – All you need to know about this condition

Psychology Today informs that a recent study reveals 82 per cent of individuals confess to experiencing imposter syndrome, where they doubt their abilities, credentials, or appearance despite others' positive perceptions.

Individuals with imposter syndrome feel unworthy of their accomplishments and positive reputation, despite being widely regarded as competent and intelligent.


They fear being exposed as frauds and believe they don't measure up to others' expectations. But despite this self-doubt, people with imposter syndrome often hold high positions and have achieved significant milestones.

Model and activist Emily Ratajkowski recently gave a powerful graduation speech at Hunter College's 2023 ceremony. In her speech, she supposedly spoke about imposter syndrome and emphasised the importance of self-appreciation and celebrating oneself.

“It’s hard to celebrate myself, not as an imposter in a body, but as a soul deserving of joy. And I bet a few people here feel the same way,” she said.

Emily added that if you struggle to celebrate yourself, do it for those around you.

The 31-year-old is quoted as saying, “So, if you can’t celebrate yourself, maybe do it for others; for the friends and family that greeted you when you returned home after your long day, who listened to you complain about your workload and your schedule, who encouraged you when you were filled with stress and hopelessness — for the loved ones who fill this audience, who can remember when you first had the idea to try and get this degree and cheered you on when you were sure you’d never make it.”

At the end of her speech, she drove home the importance of cherishing and appreciating those close to us. “The people in your life who love you are a precious gift; treat them as such, enjoy them as such, celebrate with them,” she said.

What is imposter syndrome?

Experts state that imposter syndrome is an issue of mental health characterised by constant self-doubt, even when one excels in a particular field. Such feelings can be quite debilitating and prevent individuals from achieving their true potential.

Impostor syndrome, in psychological terms, is a belief that one's successes are undeserved and that they are a fraud, despite evidence to the contrary. People with impostor syndrome may have numerous qualifications and accomplishments, but they struggle to recognise and internalise their achievements.

A previous report in Forbes informs that individuals with impostor syndrome suffer from persistent self-doubt, anxiety, and fear of being exposed as inadequate. This often leads to self-sabotage, excessive work, and depression. They are preoccupied with feelings of not being competent or good enough, causing them ongoing frustration.

Imposter syndrome is not only characterised by feelings of unease and restlessness but also has ramifications in the form of anxiety and depression. Clinical psychologist Aishwarya Raj, practicing in Delhi-NCR, India, told The Indian Express that imposter syndrome can lead to self-deprecating thoughts too.

Causes

Experts inform that personality factors play a significant role in impostor syndrome, including a lack of self-confidence, a tendency towards perfectionism, and neuroticism.

Competitive surroundings can also contribute to this syndrome, such as when individuals face strong expectations for academic success from their parents during childhood.

Symptoms of impostor syndrome by expert Raj include:

  • Underestimating abilities and skills
  • Attributing external factors for successes
  • Self-criticism and negative self-talk
  • Anxiety about meeting expectations
  • Undermining own success
  • Setting unrealistic goals
  • Disappointment over perceived failures

Overcoming and managing impostor syndrome

Psychology Today advises to overcome impostor syndrome, one must shift their thinking about their abilities.

Recognising their expertise and accomplishments is crucial, as is accepting their rightful place in their academic or professional setting.

It's also important to focus on personal achievements rather than comparing to others.

Those with impostorism often put excessive pressure on themselves to perform perfectly without any flaws, as they believe any mistakes will prove they are not competent. Breaking this cycle involves reminding oneself that no one is perfect and a person can only try their best.

Additionally, it's important to give oneself credit and reward for accomplishments, instead of constantly worrying about the next task.

Additionally, impostor syndrome is a common experience for many individuals. However, it's crucial to keep in mind that feelings don't always align with reality.

Ways to overcome it include discussing concerns and refuting negative thoughts. Keeping track of achievements and recognising successes can also be useful.

When symptoms persist or significantly affect mental health and well-being, seeking support from a mental health professional can be beneficial.

More For You

F-35B jet

The UK has agreed to move the aircraft to the Maintenance Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility at the airport.

Indian Air Force

F-35B jet still stranded in Kerala, UK sends engineers for repair

UK AVIATION engineers are arriving in Thiruvananthapuram to carry out repairs on an F-35B Lightning jet belonging to the Royal Navy, which has remained grounded after an emergency landing 12 days ago.

The jet is part of the HMS Prince of Wales Carrier Strike Group of the UK's Royal Navy. It made the emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram airport on June 14. The aircraft, valued at over USD 110 million, is among the most advanced fighter jets in the world.

Keep ReadingShow less
Ahmedabad air crash
Relatives carry the coffin of a victim, who was killed in the Air India Flight 171 crash, during a funeral ceremony in Ahmedabad on June 15, 2025. (Photo: Getty Images)

Ahmedabad crash: Grief, denial and trauma haunt families

TWO weeks after the crash of Air India flight AI-171 in Ahmedabad, families of victims are grappling with grief and trauma. Psychiatrists are now working closely with many who continue to oscillate between denial and despair.

The crash occurred on June 12, when the London-bound flight hit the BJ Medical College complex shortly after takeoff, killing 241 people on board and 29 on the ground. Only one passenger survived.

Keep ReadingShow less
Starmer apologises for 'island of strangers' immigration speech

Prime minister Keir Starmer delivers a speech at The British Chambers of Commerce Global Annual Conference in London on June 26, 2025. (Photo by EDDIE MULHOLLAND/AFP via Getty Images)

Starmer apologises for 'island of strangers' immigration speech

PRIME MINISTER Sir Keir Starmer has admitted he was wrong to warn that Britain could become an "island of strangers" due to high immigration, saying he "deeply" regrets the controversial phrase.

Speaking to The Observer, Sir Keir said he would not have used those words if he had known they would be seen as echoing the language of Enoch Powell's notorious 1968 "rivers of blood" speech.

Keep ReadingShow less
Sir Sajid Javid leads commission 'tackling social divisions'

Sir Sajid Javid (Photo by Tom Nicholson-WPA Pool/Getty Images)

Sir Sajid Javid leads commission 'tackling social divisions'

A cross-party group has been formed to tackle the deep divisions that sparked last summer's riots across England. The new commission will be led by former Tory minister Sir Sajid Javid and ex-Labour MP Jon Cruddas.

The Independent Commission on Community and Cohesion has backing from both prime minister Sir Keir Starmer and Tory leader Kemi Badenoch. It brings together 19 experts from different political parties and walks of life.

Keep ReadingShow less
​Masum

Masum was seen on CCTV trying to steer the pram away and, when she refused to go with him, stabbed her multiple times before walking away and boarding a bus. (Photo: West Yorkshire Police)

West Yorkshire Police

Habibur Masum convicted of murdering estranged wife in front of baby

A MAN who stabbed his estranged wife to death in Bradford in front of their baby has been convicted of murder.

Habibur Masum, 26, attacked 27-year-old Kulsuma Akter in broad daylight on April 6, 2024, stabbing her more than 25 times while she pushed their seven-month-old son in a pram. The baby was not harmed.

Keep ReadingShow less