Ep 68. How Imposter Syndrome Differs in Perfectionists and How to Create Confidence

Have you ever landed a major accomplishment and immediately thought, that was just luck? Or received praise and felt your stomach drop, terrified someone will finally realize you're not as competent as they think?

That's imposterism, and if you're a perfectionist, you're not just experiencing it. You're experiencing it on steroids.

In this solo episode, Dr. Amna Shabbir breaks down why imposterism isn't a syndrome or a character flaw, but a pattern. She explains exactly why perfectionists are uniquely wired to feel it more intensely, and shares one simple, evidence-based tool you can use the next time these feelings creep in.

Episode Takeaways

• Why feeling like a fraud is actually evidence of self-awareness, empathy, and humility — 70% of people experience imposterism, including the most successful people in the room
• How deficit thinking makes perfectionism and imposterism deeply intertwined, keeping perfectionists stuck in a cycle of achieving and dismissing
• External attribution bias and why perfectionists give luck the credit while keeping themselves the blame
• The Evidence Log: one practical tool to interrupt imposter feelings with objective data the next time self-doubt creeps in
• How identity, culture, marginalization, and lived experience shape the unique flavor of imposterism you carry

About the Host

Dr. Amna Shabbir, MD, NBC-HWC, CPC is a Dual Board-Certified Physician and TEDx Speaker with advanced training in Integrative Well-being, Performance, and Leadership Development. She speaks, coaches, and consults on Perfectionism, Sustainable Success, and the well-being of High Achievers.

Connect with Dr. Shabbir

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.amnashabbir/

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amna-shabbir-md/

📹 Watch Dr. Shabbir's TEDx Talk

Perfectionism Has A Solution - It is Not What You Think: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oNIzzM4Vg3s&t=3s 

🌍 Want to Book Dr. Shabbir to Speak at your event or organization?

Reach out at: https://www.dramnashabbir.com/Speaking

✅Want to work 1:1 With Dr. Shabbir?

Schedule Your Complimentary Strategy Session: https://calendly.com/dramnashabbir/strategy 

❌ Disclaimer

This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical or therapeutic advice. The views expressed are personal and do not reflect those of any employer or institution.

❤️ Enjoyed This Episode?

Subscribe, rate, and review the podcast.

Share it with a colleague, peer, or friend who needs this message.