Doing the Absolute Most: A Mixed-Methods Study of Imposterism, Workaholism, and Motivation

Abstract

Imposterism is a pervasive experience marked by being objectively competent yet doubting oneself, fearing failure and success, and worrying about being exposed as a fraud. It has negative effects for employees and organizations, including a propensity to procrastinate, turn down advancement opportunities, and overwork. Overworking is just one aspect of workaholism, which has its own consequences (e.g., poor health). In addition to negatively impacting employees and organizations, imposterism and workaholism are tied together by self-determination theory, which differentiates the motivations underlying behavior and emphasizes the value of intangible assets like autonomy, competence, and relatedness (per the basic psychological needs theory). In the current studies we explore relationships between imposterism, workaholism, and motivation, and the influence of needs satisfaction. We also offer support for using the Imposter Phenomenon Profile measure, and investigate qualitative differences among workaholic imposters and their peers. Findings reaffirm that imposterism and workaholism are quite nuanced, and highlight the value of satisfying needs. Study implications, limitations, and future research directions are discussed.