What Type of Impostor Are You?

Quiz Questions

• 1.
  I always feel like I need to learn more in order to be successful

  • A.
    Always
  • B.
    Mostly
  • C.
    Sometimes
  • D.
    Rarely
  • E.
    Never
• 2.
  I spend a lot of time learning new things

  • A.
    Always
  • B.
    Mostly
  • C.
    Sometimes
  • D.
    Rarely
  • E.
    Never
• 3.
  I like to research things thoroughly to ensure that I know what I am talking about

  • A.
    Always
  • B.
    Mostly
  • C.
    Sometimes
  • D.
    Rarely
  • E.
    Never
• 4.
  I feel like my confidence is boosted when I learn something new

  • A.
    Always
  • B.
    Mostly
  • C.
    Sometimes
  • D.
    Rarely
  • E.
    Never
• 5.
  I prefer to do things on my own rather than ask for help

  • A.
    Always
  • B.
    Mostly
  • C.
    Sometimes
  • D.
    Rarely
  • E.
    Never
• 6.
  If people help me I feel like it diminishes my feeling of accomplishment when the task is finished

  • A.
    Always
  • B.
    Mostly
  • C.
    Sometimes
  • D.
    Rarely
  • E.
    Never
• 7.
  I worry that asking for help might make me look incompetent

  • A.
    Always
  • B.
    Mostly
  • C.
    Sometimes
  • D.
    Rarely
  • E.
    Never
• 8.
  I think that doing things myself proves that I am good at my job

  • A.
    Always
  • B.
    Mostly
  • C.
    Sometimes
  • D.
    Rarely
  • E.
    Never
• 9.
  I feel safer with tasks that I can do easily

  • A.
    Always
  • B.
    Mostly
  • C.
    Sometimes
  • D.
    Rarely
  • E.
    Never
• 10.
  I feel embarrassed if I can’t do something well

  • A.
    Always
  • B.
    Mostly
  • C.
    Sometimes
  • D.
    Rarely
  • E.
    Never
• 11.
  I have put off doing something because I was worried about not being good at it

  • A.
    Always
  • B.
    Mostly
  • C.
    Sometimes
  • D.
    Rarely
  • E.
    Never
• 12.
  I get frustrated at myself if something doesn’t go easily for me

  • A.
    Always
  • B.
    Mostly
  • C.
    Sometimes
  • D.
    Rarely
  • E.
    Never
• 13.
  I would describe myself as a perfectionist

  • A.
    Always
  • B.
    Mostly
  • C.
    Sometimes
  • D.
    Rarely
  • E.
    Never
• 14.
  I set really high standards for myself

  • A.
    Always
  • B.
    Mostly
  • C.
    Sometimes
  • D.
    Rarely
  • E.
    Never
• 15.
  I feel like a failure when I don’t outperform my goals

  • A.
    Always
  • B.
    Mostly
  • C.
    Sometimes
  • D.
    Rarely
  • E.
    Never
• 16.
  I want to do really well at things – near enough is not good enough

  • A.
    Always
  • B.
    Mostly
  • C.
    Sometimes
  • D.
    Rarely
  • E.
    Never
• 17.
  I know that I take on too much

  • A.
    Always
  • B.
    Mostly
  • C.
    Sometimes
  • D.
    Rarely
  • E.
    Never
• 18.
  I spend too long at work and don’t take enough breaks

  • A.
    Always
  • B.
    Mostly
  • C.
    Sometimes
  • D.
    Rarely
  • E.
    Never
• 19.
  I am the first to put up my hand for new projects 

  • A.
    Always
  • B.
    Mostly
  • C.
    Sometimes
  • D.
    Rarely
  • E.
    Never
• 20.
  I feel validated when people compliment me on the amount of work I get through

  • A.
    Always
  • B.
    Mostly
  • C.
    Sometimes
  • D.
    Rarely
  • E.
    Never

Quiz Outcomes

• 1.
  The Expert

  Image Source

  The expert impostor is someone who is highly motivated to learn and improve themselves, but they struggle with self-doubt and a lack of confidence in their abilities. They may believe that they are not knowledgeable enough or that they lack the skills necessary to be successful in their field. As a result, they may spend a lot of time reading, studying, and researching in order to gain new knowledge and skills, but they never seem to feel like they have learned enough. They may believe that once they have learned one more thing, they will finally have the confidence they need to apply themselves and succeed. Unfortunately, this type of thinking can be a form of procrastination, as the expert impostor may use their constant desire to learn as an excuse to avoid taking action or putting their skills to the test. This can lead to a vicious cycle of self-doubt, procrastination, and a lack of progress towards their goals.Before We Go Any Further – Let Me Introduce MyselfHi, I’m Ros Cardinal, founder and managing director of Shaping Change.Impostor syndrome is really common. You'd be surprised at how many successful, famous people struggle with it. The number one reason people consistently do not overcome impostor syndrome is because they think they’re stuck with it for life. And when you think you're stuck with something for life... You also start to think "what's the point in even trying to get over it?"And let me tell you how dangerous that thought process is.What happens when you believe this is insurmountable... Is that you can end up spending decades doing work that you don’t love… Working for or with people that suck your soul dry… And that has impacts on all other areas of your life… Your health… Your personal life… Your family and relationships… You lose your zest for life and end up thinking “this is as good as I deserve” You lose out on promotions, on pay raises… You end up living with this sinking feeling that you could have done more, been more and had more in your life… Impostor Syndrome is NOT something you just have to live with for the rest of your life. It IS something you can heal. I want to tell you about Jess.When Jess joined one of my coaching programs she was struggling in her role. Ambitious, keen, and a hard worker... Jess was tired of being overlooked for project roles she knew she was qualified for.On one of our coaching calls, we discovered she wasn’t advocating for herself. She felt so defeated, she lost all confidence that she would be noticed by management. She was going through the motions in her job, because what was the point in trying? But Jess was a dream client. She was open to feedback, willing to get uncomfortable, and took action. Eight weeks later, she sent me a quick email, shouting:I GOT IT!YahooooooooooooCouldn’t have done it without you!I am beyond happy :)Jess just landed her dream job as head of a wonderful not-for-profit agency, where she can live her purpose and do good in the world. I want to help you transform your career and accomplish your most ambitious goals… Regardless of what they are.Here are 4 key actions you can take to banish impostor syndrome for good!1. Recognise and acknowledge your impostor thoughts: The first step to overcoming impostor syndrome is to recognise and acknowledge the thoughts and feelings that are associated with it. Understanding and acknowledging that you are experiencing impostor syndrome can help you take control of the thoughts and emotions, and to start taking steps to overcome it.2. Challenge your impostor thoughts: Once you have recognised and acknowledged your impostor thoughts, the next step is to challenge them. This means questioning and refuting the negative thoughts and beliefs that are associated with impostor syndrome. For example, if you believe that you are not good enough or that you are not an expert, try to identify evidence that contradicts this belief.3. Build self-confidence and self-compassion: Building self-confidence and self-compassion is essential to overcome impostor syndrome. One way to do this is to focus on your achievements and accomplishments, and to give yourself credit for your hard work and efforts. It is also important to be kind and compassionate to yourself and to remind yourself that it is normal to make mistakes and to have moments of self-doubt.4. Seek support and mentorship: Surrounding yourself with supportive people can be very helpful in overcoming Impostor syndrome. Seek the help of a therapist, mentor or coach who can guide you through the process of challenging Impostor thoughts, developing self-compassion and building self-confidence. Talking about impostor syndrome with someone who understands the experience can also help to reduce feelings of isolation and shame.If you want more help, let's have a chat about it. You can book 30 minutes in my calendar using the button below for a conversation on Zoom. Let's talk!
• 2.
  The Soloist

  Image Source

  The soloist is someone who struggles with impostor syndrome and feels the need to do everything on their own. They believe that if they ask for help, they will be exposed as a fraud or as someone who is not truly an expert in their field. They may feel that seeking help is a sign of weakness or incompetence, and they may be afraid that others will see them as such. This type of thinking can lead to feelings of isolation and a lack of support, as the soloist may avoid reaching out to others for help or guidance.The need to do everything alone is an illusion, as experts in any field often rely on the help and input of others. They may consult with colleagues, mentors, or other experts to gain new perspectives, to collaborate on projects, or to receive feedback on their work. Experts understand that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but rather a sign of maturity and a willingness to learn and grow.The soloist may also be missing out on valuable opportunities for growth and development by refusing to ask for help. The decision to go it alone can lead to burnout, stress, and a lack of progress towards their goals. It is important for soloists to recognise that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and that it is an essential part of professional and personal growth.Before We Go Any Further – Let Me Introduce MyselfHi, I’m Ros Cardinal, founder and managing director of Shaping Change.Impostor syndrome is really common. You'd be surprised at how many successful, famous people struggle with it. The number one reason people consistently do not overcome impostor syndrome is because they think they’re stuck with it for life. And when you think you're stuck with something for life... You also start to think "what's the point in even trying to get over it?"And let me tell you how dangerous that thought process is.What happens when you believe this is insurmountable... Is that you can end up spending decades doing work that you don’t love… Working for or with people that suck your soul dry… And that has impacts on all other areas of your life… Your health… Your personal life… Your family and relationships… You lose your zest for life and end up thinking “this is as good as I deserve” You lose out on promotions, on pay raises… You end up living with this sinking feeling that you could have done more, been more and had more in your life… Impostor Syndrome is NOT something you just have to live with for the rest of your life. It IS something you can heal. I want to tell you about Jess.When Jess joined one of my coaching programs she was struggling in her role. Ambitious, keen, and a hard worker... Jess was tired of being overlooked for project roles she knew she was qualified for.On one of our coaching calls, we discovered she wasn’t advocating for herself. She felt so defeated, she lost all confidence that she would be noticed by management. She was going through the motions in her job, because what was the point in trying? But Jess was a dream client. She was open to feedback, willing to get uncomfortable, and took action. Eight weeks later, she sent me a quick email, shouting:I GOT IT!YahooooooooooooCouldn’t have done it without you!I am beyond happy :)Jess just landed her dream job as head of a wonderful not-for-profit agency, where she can live her purpose and do good in the world. I want to help you transform your career and accomplish your most ambitious goals… Regardless of what they are.Here are 4 key actions you can take to banish impostor syndrome for good!1. Recognise and acknowledge your impostor thoughts: The first step to overcoming impostor syndrome is to recognise and acknowledge the thoughts and feelings that are associated with it. Understanding and acknowledging that you are experiencing impostor syndrome can help you take control of the thoughts and emotions, and to start taking steps to overcome it.2. Challenge your impostor thoughts: Once you have recognised and acknowledged your impostor thoughts, the next step is to challenge them. This means questioning and refuting the negative thoughts and beliefs that are associated with impostor syndrome. For example, if you believe that you are not good enough or that you are not an expert, try to identify evidence that contradicts this belief.3. Build self-confidence and self-compassion: Building self-confidence and self-compassion is essential to overcome impostor syndrome. One way to do this is to focus on your achievements and accomplishments, and to give yourself credit for your hard work and efforts. It is also important to be kind and compassionate to yourself and to remind yourself that it is normal to make mistakes and to have moments of self-doubt.4. Seek support and mentorship: Surrounding yourself with supportive people can be very helpful in overcoming Impostor syndrome. Seek the help of a therapist, mentor or coach who can guide you through the process of challenging Impostor thoughts, developing self-compassion and building self-confidence. Talking about impostor syndrome with someone who understands the experience can also help to reduce feelings of isolation and shame.If you want more help, let's have a chat about it. You can book 30 minutes in my calendar using the button below for a conversation on Zoom. Let's talk!
• 3.
  The Genius

  Image Source

  The genius impostor is someone who believes that their intelligence should allow them to handle any task easily and quickly. They may believe that if a task requires hard work or effort, it is not something they are good at. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and a sense of shame if they struggle to complete a task or if it takes them longer than they believe it should. They may compare themselves to others who seem to be able to complete tasks with ease, and they may feel like they are not as smart or capable as they thought they were.The belief that an intelligent person should be able to handle anything easily is a misconception. In reality, even the most intelligent individuals often need to put in hard work and effort to achieve their goals. Learning and mastery of a new skill or subject often requires time and dedication. It is important to remember that intelligence alone is not a guarantee of success and that hard work and effort are essential components of achievement.This type of impostor may also avoid challenges and new opportunities that may require a lot of hard work. They may miss out on valuable learning experiences and opportunities for growth. It is important for them to recognise that hard work and effort are necessary to achieve success and that it is okay to struggle and make mistakes along the way. Failure and mistakes are also a part of learning and growth process.Before We Go Any Further – Let Me Introduce MyselfHi, I’m Ros Cardinal, founder and managing director of Shaping Change.Impostor syndrome is really common. You'd be surprised at how many successful, famous people struggle with it. The number one reason people consistently do not overcome impostor syndrome is because they think they’re stuck with it for life. And when you think you're stuck with something for life... You also start to think "what's the point in even trying to get over it?"And let me tell you how dangerous that thought process is.What happens when you believe this is insurmountable... Is that you can end up spending decades doing work that you don’t love… Working for or with people that suck your soul dry… And that has impacts on all other areas of your life… Your health… Your personal life… Your family and relationships… You lose your zest for life and end up thinking “this is as good as I deserve” You lose out on promotions, on pay raises… You end up living with this sinking feeling that you could have done more, been more and had more in your life… Impostor Syndrome is NOT something you just have to live with for the rest of your life. It IS something you can heal. I want to tell you about Jess.When Jess joined one of my coaching programs she was struggling in her role. Ambitious, keen, and a hard worker... Jess was tired of being overlooked for project roles she knew she was qualified for.On one of our coaching calls, we discovered she wasn’t advocating for herself. She felt so defeated, she lost all confidence that she would be noticed by management. She was going through the motions in her job, because what was the point in trying? But Jess was a dream client. She was open to feedback, willing to get uncomfortable, and took action. Eight weeks later, she sent me a quick email, shouting:I GOT IT!YahooooooooooooCouldn’t have done it without you!I am beyond happy :)Jess just landed her dream job as head of a wonderful not-for-profit agency, where she can live her purpose and do good in the world. I want to help you transform your career and accomplish your most ambitious goals… Regardless of what they are.Here are 4 key actions you can take to banish impostor syndrome for good!1. Recognise and acknowledge your impostor thoughts: The first step to overcoming impostor syndrome is to recognise and acknowledge the thoughts and feelings that are associated with it. Understanding and acknowledging that you are experiencing impostor syndrome can help you take control of the thoughts and emotions, and to start taking steps to overcome it.2. Challenge your impostor thoughts: Once you have recognised and acknowledged your impostor thoughts, the next step is to challenge them. This means questioning and refuting the negative thoughts and beliefs that are associated with impostor syndrome. For example, if you believe that you are not good enough or that you are not an expert, try to identify evidence that contradicts this belief.3. Build self-confidence and self-compassion: Building self-confidence and self-compassion is essential to overcome impostor syndrome. One way to do this is to focus on your achievements and accomplishments, and to give yourself credit for your hard work and efforts. It is also important to be kind and compassionate to yourself and to remind yourself that it is normal to make mistakes and to have moments of self-doubt.4. Seek support and mentorship: Surrounding yourself with supportive people can be very helpful in overcoming Impostor syndrome. Seek the help of a therapist, mentor or coach who can guide you through the process of challenging Impostor thoughts, developing self-compassion and building self-confidence. Talking about impostor syndrome with someone who understands the experience can also help to reduce feelings of isolation and shame.If you want more help, let's have a chat about it. You can book 30 minutes in my calendar using the button below for a conversation on Zoom. Let's talk!
• 4.
  The Perfectionist

  Image Source

  The perfectionist impostor is someone who sets impossibly high standards for themselves and is never satisfied with their performance or achievements. They may have a hard time accepting anything less than perfection, and they may believe that they are not good enough or that they are not truly an expert in their field. They may constantly compare themselves to others and feel inadequate if they are not able to meet their own high standards.The perfectionist may also have a hard time accepting praise or recognition for their achievements because they believe that they could have done more or that they did not meet their own standards of perfection. They may have a hard time enjoying their success and may be always looking for ways to improve.This constant need to strive for perfection can lead to a lot of stress, anxiety and can cause burnout. Perfectionism can also lead to procrastination as the perfectionist may avoid starting a task or project for fear of not being able to complete it perfectly. They may also be less likely to take risks or try new things for fear of not being able to meet their own high standards.It is important for the perfectionist to recognise that perfectionism is a form of impostor syndrome and that it is impossible to achieve perfection in everything. It is important to strive for excellence but also to be realistic and set achievable goals. It is also important to learn to accept compliments, and to recognise and appreciate their own achievements and progress.Before We Go Any Further – Let Me Introduce MyselfHi, I’m Ros Cardinal, founder and managing director of Shaping Change.Impostor syndrome is really common. You'd be surprised at how many successful, famous people struggle with it. The number one reason people consistently do not overcome impostor syndrome is because they think they’re stuck with it for life. And when you think you're stuck with something for life... You also start to think "what's the point in even trying to get over it?"And let me tell you how dangerous that thought process is.What happens when you believe this is insurmountable... Is that you can end up spending decades doing work that you don’t love… Working for or with people that suck your soul dry… And that has impacts on all other areas of your life… Your health… Your personal life… Your family and relationships… You lose your zest for life and end up thinking “this is as good as I deserve” You lose out on promotions, on pay raises… You end up living with this sinking feeling that you could have done more, been more and had more in your life… Impostor Syndrome is NOT something you just have to live with for the rest of your life. It IS something you can heal. I want to tell you about Jess.When Jess joined one of my coaching programs she was struggling in her role. Ambitious, keen, and a hard worker... Jess was tired of being overlooked for project roles she knew she was qualified for.On one of our coaching calls, we discovered she wasn’t advocating for herself. She felt so defeated, she lost all confidence that she would be noticed by management. She was going through the motions in her job, because what was the point in trying? But Jess was a dream client. She was open to feedback, willing to get uncomfortable, and took action. Eight weeks later, she sent me a quick email, shouting:I GOT IT!YahooooooooooooCouldn’t have done it without you!I am beyond happy :)Jess just landed her dream job as head of a wonderful not-for-profit agency, where she can live her purpose and do good in the world. I want to help you transform your career and accomplish your most ambitious goals… Regardless of what they are.Here are 4 key actions you can take to banish impostor syndrome for good!1. Recognise and acknowledge your impostor thoughts: The first step to overcoming impostor syndrome is to recognise and acknowledge the thoughts and feelings that are associated with it. Understanding and acknowledging that you are experiencing impostor syndrome can help you take control of the thoughts and emotions, and to start taking steps to overcome it.2. Challenge your impostor thoughts: Once you have recognised and acknowledged your impostor thoughts, the next step is to challenge them. This means questioning and refuting the negative thoughts and beliefs that are associated with impostor syndrome. For example, if you believe that you are not good enough or that you are not an expert, try to identify evidence that contradicts this belief.3. Build self-confidence and self-compassion: Building self-confidence and self-compassion is essential to overcome impostor syndrome. One way to do this is to focus on your achievements and accomplishments, and to give yourself credit for your hard work and efforts. It is also important to be kind and compassionate to yourself and to remind yourself that it is normal to make mistakes and to have moments of self-doubt.4. Seek support and mentorship: Surrounding yourself with supportive people can be very helpful in overcoming Impostor syndrome. Seek the help of a therapist, mentor or coach who can guide you through the process of challenging Impostor thoughts, developing self-compassion and building self-confidence. Talking about impostor syndrome with someone who understands the experience can also help to reduce feelings of isolation and shame.If you want more help, let's have a chat about it. You can book 30 minutes in my calendar using the button below for a conversation on Zoom. Let's talk!
• 5.
  The Super Hero

  Image Source

  The superhero impostor is someone who feels that they are not good enough or competent when they compare themselves to their colleagues. They may believe that they have to prove their worth by outdoing everyone else. They may be the person who works weekends when it is not necessary, comes in early, stays late and skips breaks. They may be always looking for ways to prove that they are better than others and are willing to go above and beyond what is expected of them.This constant need to prove oneself can be exhausting and can lead to burnout. The superhero may not be able to maintain this level of work for a long period of time. They may also miss out on important aspects of life such as family, friends and leisure activities. They may also be sacrificing their own health and well-being for the sake of proving their worth.It is important for the superhero to recognise that their worth does not depend on how much they work or how much they achieve. Everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses and it is important to focus on one's own abilities, and not to compare oneself with others. It is also important to set realistic and achievable goals, and to balance work and personal life. Taking breaks, and time off is also essential to maintain good health and well-being.Before We Go Any Further – Let Me Introduce MyselfHi, I’m Ros Cardinal, founder and managing director of Shaping Change.Impostor syndrome is really common. You'd be surprised at how many successful, famous people struggle with it. The number one reason people consistently do not overcome impostor syndrome is because they think they’re stuck with it for life. And when you think you're stuck with something for life... You also start to think "what's the point in even trying to get over it?"And let me tell you how dangerous that thought process is.What happens when you believe this is insurmountable... Is that you can end up spending decades doing work that you don’t love… Working for or with people that suck your soul dry… And that has impacts on all other areas of your life… Your health… Your personal life… Your family and relationships… You lose your zest for life and end up thinking “this is as good as I deserve” You lose out on promotions, on pay raises… You end up living with this sinking feeling that you could have done more, been more and had more in your life… Impostor Syndrome is NOT something you just have to live with for the rest of your life. It IS something you can heal. I want to tell you about Jess.When Jess joined one of my coaching programs she was struggling in her role. Ambitious, keen, and a hard worker... Jess was tired of being overlooked for project roles she knew she was qualified for.On one of our coaching calls, we discovered she wasn’t advocating for herself. She felt so defeated, she lost all confidence that she would be noticed by management. She was going through the motions in her job, because what was the point in trying? But Jess was a dream client. She was open to feedback, willing to get uncomfortable, and took action. Eight weeks later, she sent me a quick email, shouting:I GOT IT!YahooooooooooooCouldn’t have done it without you!I am beyond happy :)Jess just landed her dream job as head of a wonderful not-for-profit agency, where she can live her purpose and do good in the world. I want to help you transform your career and accomplish your most ambitious goals… Regardless of what they are.Here are 4 key actions you can take to banish impostor syndrome for good!1. Recognise and acknowledge your impostor thoughts: The first step to overcoming impostor syndrome is to recognise and acknowledge the thoughts and feelings that are associated with it. Understanding and acknowledging that you are experiencing impostor syndrome can help you take control of the thoughts and emotions, and to start taking steps to overcome it.2. Challenge your impostor thoughts: Once you have recognised and acknowledged your impostor thoughts, the next step is to challenge them. This means questioning and refuting the negative thoughts and beliefs that are associated with impostor syndrome. For example, if you believe that you are not good enough or that you are not an expert, try to identify evidence that contradicts this belief.3. Build self-confidence and self-compassion: Building self-confidence and self-compassion is essential to overcome impostor syndrome. One way to do this is to focus on your achievements and accomplishments, and to give yourself credit for your hard work and efforts. It is also important to be kind and compassionate to yourself and to remind yourself that it is normal to make mistakes and to have moments of self-doubt.4. Seek support and mentorship: Surrounding yourself with supportive people can be very helpful in overcoming Impostor syndrome. Seek the help of a therapist, mentor or coach who can guide you through the process of challenging Impostor thoughts, developing self-compassion and building self-confidence. Talking about impostor syndrome with someone who understands the experience can also help to reduce feelings of isolation and shame.If you want more help, let's have a chat about it. You can book 30 minutes in my calendar using the button below for a conversation on Zoom. Let's talk!