Does everyone attribute career successes purely to luck or timing?

Many high-achievers privately worry their accomplishments are due to chance rather than their own abilities. This feeling, often called imposter syndrome, is a common experience, even among highly competent individuals. It can lead to downplaying hard work and skill, attributing positive outcomes solely to external factors.

Research indicates that approximately 70% of professionals experience imposter syndrome at some point in their careers, often leading them to attribute successes to external factors.

See other perspectives

Am I the only one who attributes career successes purely to luck or timing?

Am I the Only One?

Is it normal to attribute career successes purely to luck or timing?

Is It Normal?

Is it weird to attribute career successes purely to luck or timing?

Is It Weird?

Why do I attribute my career successes purely to luck or timing?

Why Do I?

Real stories from the community

The scalpel felt wrong. …

imposter syndrome

i think we all have our little secrets don’t we the things we keep tucked away even from ourselves sometimes until they just… float to the surface at three in the morning when the house is quiet and… …

imposter syndrome

I just got the principal job, fifty years old, and all I can think about is those veteran teachers, the ones who practically built this place, watching me…waiting for me to fail. …

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Tenure track. …

imposter syndrome

Every time I walk past their classrooms, I feel this weird somatic response, like my stomach just clenches up. …

imposter syndrome

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I feel like my success is just a fluke?▾
This feeling often stems from a disconnect between external achievements and an internal sense of worthiness. Despite clear evidence of competence, individuals may struggle to internalize their successes as earned.
How can I stop dismissing my career achievements?▾
Actively reflecting on the specific skills, effort, and decisions that contributed to each success can help. Keeping a record of accomplishments and the steps taken to achieve them can also provide tangible evidence against the 'fluke' narrative.
Is it normal to feel like an imposter at work?▾
Yes, feeling like an imposter is a very common experience across various professions and seniority levels. It's often associated with high performers who set demanding standards for themselves.

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