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

It's quite common to downplay our own contributions when good things happen, especially in our careers. Many high-achievers experience a persistent feeling that their accomplishments are due to external factors rather than their skills or hard work. This thought pattern often stems from a fear of being exposed as a fraud, despite clear evidence of competence.

Research suggests that over 70% of professionals experience imposter syndrome at some point in their careers, often leading them to discount their achievements.

See other perspectives

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

Am I the Only One?

Does everyone attribute career successes purely to luck or timing?

Does Everyone?

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

Is It Normal?

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… …

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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 career success is just luck?▾
This feeling often arises from imposter syndrome, where individuals doubt their skills and fear being exposed as a fraud, despite evidence of their competence. It's a common internal struggle.
How can I recognize my own contributions to my career?▾
Start by documenting specific actions you took, challenges you overcame, and skills you applied that led to positive outcomes. Reviewing these facts can help shift your perspective from pure luck to your direct impact.
Is it unhealthy to credit luck for my achievements?▾
While a touch of humility is fine, consistently crediting only luck can prevent you from recognizing your true abilities and diminish your confidence. It can also hinder your ability to advocate for yourself in future opportunities.

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