New research reveals that 82% of professionals who doubt their capabilities actually feel competent in their roles and know they do good work, yet imposter syndrome persists across the workplace, according to Lalibre.
Affected individuals often fear being unmasked as unqualified while discounting their achievements as mere luck, hard work, or chance, according to motivation expert Hermina Van Coillie. The study shows that 82% of people experiencing self-doubt recognize they perform well at their duties, but the doubt continues regardless.
Younger Generations Face Higher Impact
Younger employees report higher levels of imposter syndrome than older colleagues. Van Coillie attributes this difference to a lack of experienced success among younger workers, noting that self-confidence builds over time when individuals tackle difficult tasks and discover they can succeed.
Artificial Intelligence Tools Amplify Self-Doubt Among Workers
Self-doubt is further fueled by internal pressure and the desire to dodge criticism. According to Lalibre, 66% of employees maintain constant pressure on themselves to work hard, and nearly half report that fear of criticism from colleagues or managers drives their work ethic. Among workers experiencing excessive job stress, roughly half harbor doubts about their own capabilities.
Meanwhile, the rapid rise of artificial intelligence also plays a role in amplifying these feelings. Among workers who use AI tools, 28% feel less competent because of them, with that figure jumping to 38% for Generation Z. Van Coillie notes that AI handles the straightforward tasks that previously allowed workers to build confidence gradually.
Men Face Higher Rates of Self-Doubt than Women
While imposter syndrome has traditionally been viewed as an issue affecting women more frequently, the study indicates that men are impacted at higher rates. Van Coillie observes that 37% of men doubt their capabilities compared to 29% of women, adding that many men feel societal pressure to project strength, maintain total control, and conceal any uncertainties.
“When you think you aren’t allowed to doubt, it becomes difficult to talk about it, and you are left alone with it,” Hermina Van Coillie said.
Hermina Van Coillie, motivation expert
Addressing the phenomenon requires organizational changes rather than treating it solely as an individual problem, according to Lalibre. Environments that rely on constant comparison with peers, treat mistakes as severe infractions, or focus strictly on areas for improvement will continue to breed insecurity despite professional training.
