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Comment by giantg2 | Hacker News Reader

I wonder if it would help some to believe that they somehow beat the system to get in. Sort of like, "hey, I beat the system so I might as well enjoy it and make the most of it". If I applied to FAANG and got in, that's probably how I'd view it - DGAF and just go with it.

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Conversely, I would think that a lot of imposter syndrome stems from feeling like they “beat the system”.

When I applied at Google, my screening interview consisted of a question I was already familiar with. Naturally I passed the interview with ease. Did I deserve to move on further or did I just beat the system? Feelings of imposter syndrome followed.

True. It will depend on the person and the situation. I feel like if I got in, then that would be enough for me. I just want the money, and a several years working there could be enough to retire early. So it's more a means to an end, and I would care so much about whether I deserve it or not. Not to mention, I think a lot of my imposter syndrome was/is driven by the uncertainty of being able to find another job. If I were even mediocre at FAANG, then that opens up more possibilities afterwards just on the reputation of the company.

I know I used the whole chip on my shoulder underdog mentality for awhile. It mostly led to decent outcomes, but included one hidden outcome - bitterness. It’s almost like it becomes you. The me against the world mentality can often make it hard to manage relationships, because, you know … fuck everyone.

I'm already bitter because my company has screwed me over and lied repeatedly. If I'm going to be treated like that, I might as well be making more money.

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