Lean Into Imposter Syndrome, Don't Give In to It

5 Aug 2025

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Why do ambitious “strivers” so often feel they haven’t truly earned their success? Harvard behavioral social scientist and author of "The Happiness Files" Arthur C. Brooks argues that self-doubt is usually evidence of healthy humility—not incompetence—and a clear contrast to the overconfidence of “dark-triad” personalities. Brooks shows executives how to reframe imposter feelings as diagnostic feedback, then “lean in without giving in” by targeting the specific skills and knowledge gaps those feelings reveal, turning discomfort into a disciplined catalyst for growth.

For more insights on leadership, success, and workplace well-being, explore Arthur's new book, "The Happiness Files", a curated selection of essays from his popular column in The Atlantic: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F4MFQ6VN

More by Arthur Brooks: https://arthurbrooks.com/

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