What is imposter syndrome and how can you combat it? - Elizabeth Cox

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Even after writing eleven books and winning several awards, Maya Angelou couldn’t escape the doubt that she hadn’t earned her accomplishments. This feeling of fraudulence is extremely common. Why can’t so many of us shake feelings that our ideas and skills aren’t worthy of others’ attention? Elizabeth Cox describes the psychology behind the imposter syndrome, and what you can do to combat it.


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TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Elizabeth Cox
  • Director Sharon Colman
  • Narrator Christina Greer
  • Content Producer Gerta Xhelo
  • Editorial Producer Alex Rosenthal
  • Associate Producer Bethany Cutmore-Scott
  • Fact-Checker Francisco Diez
Additional Resources for you to Explore
Take this test by Pauline Rose Clance, the psychologist behind imposter syndrome, to see if you have any imposter characteristics or experiences. If you find that you do, then know you’re not alone. Take a look at this video of women sharing their experiences of overcoming imposter syndrome in their careers.

Check out this TED Talk by imposter syndrome expert Valerie Young for helpful tips on how to overcome it.

Customize this lesson

Create and share a new lesson based on this one.

About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Elizabeth Cox
  • Director Sharon Colman
  • Narrator Christina Greer
  • Content Producer Gerta Xhelo
  • Editorial Producer Alex Rosenthal
  • Associate Producer Bethany Cutmore-Scott
  • Fact-Checker Francisco Diez

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