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Fooled Quote by Sheryl Sandberg

“At last, someone was articulating exactly how I felt. Every time I was called on in class, I was sure that I was about to embarrass myself. Every time I took a test, I was sure that it had gone badly. And every time I didn't embarrass myself—or even excelled—I believed that I had fooled everyone…” quote by Sheryl Sandberg
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““At last, someone was articulating exactly how I felt. Every time I was called on in class, I was sure that I was about to embarrass myself. Every time I took a test, I was sure that it had gone badly. And every time I didn't embarrass myself—or even excelled—I believed that I had fooled everyone yet again. One day soon, the jig would be up.””

Sheryl Sandberg

About This Quote

Source Speech: Women in Tech Conference, 2015

Feeling constantly judged leads to impostor syndrome, where successes are dismissed as luck.

In simple terms: You doubt your achievements and fear being exposed as a fraud.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and internalize your genuine accomplishments.

Themes

impostor syndrome self‑doubt confidence

Mood

anxious hopeful

Type

motivational reflective

When to use this quote

  • job interviews
  • public speaking
  • leadership roles
  • academic presentations

Key Concepts

psychology self‑esteem

Questions to Reflect On

  • What evidence contradicts your self‑doubt?
  • How can you celebrate small wins?
A Different Perspective

Self‑criticism can become paralyzing if not addressed.

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