Is Bodily Neglect a Sign of Imposter Syndrome?

Understanding the Connection Between Success, Self-Doubt, and Self-Neglect

Imposter syndrome—the persistent fear of being exposed as a fraud despite tangible success—affects countless high-achieving professionals, including executives. It manifests in many ways: perfectionism, chronic overworking, self-sabotage, and, surprisingly, bodily neglect.

For many executives, the subconscious belief that they don’t truly “deserve” their success translates into neglecting their physical health. They push themselves to exhaustion, deprioritize self-care, and accept fatigue, poor nutrition, and stress as the costs of achievement. But is this a sign of imposter syndrome at work? Research suggests that, for many leaders, the answer is yes.

Why Do High Achievers Neglect Their Bodies?

Executives often equate their value with productivity and external validation. When imposter syndrome takes hold, they overcompensate by working harder—often at the expense of their well-being. Some common ways this plays out include:

1. Overworking to Prove Worth

Executives with imposter syndrome frequently extend their work hours to prove they are "good enough." Instead of taking breaks or maintaining a work-life balance, they push themselves relentlessly, skipping meals, workouts, and rest.

Example: A Fortune 500 executive admitted in a Harvard Business Review article that she would routinely work 80-hour weeks, skipping meals and sleep, fearing she wasn’t smart enough to deserve her role. Her body eventually forced a stop when she was hospitalized for exhaustion.

2. Poor Nutrition and Mindless Eating

A high-pressure work environment can lead to stress eating, skipping meals, or relying on quick, unhealthy options. Executives with imposter syndrome often believe they must focus solely on work and that tending to their health is indulgent or unnecessary.

Example: A tech startup CEO shared that she avoided eating during work hours, subsisting on caffeine, because she felt taking a proper lunch break would make her appear “less committed.” Over time, this led to digestive issues and severe fatigue.

3. Sacrificing Sleep as a Badge of Honor

Lack of sleep is often worn as a badge of honor in executive circles, reinforcing the idea that one must sacrifice well-being for professional success. However, chronic sleep deprivation leads to cognitive decline, increased stress, and long-term health risks.

Example: A senior finance executive once bragged about operating on four hours of sleep, only to suffer a mini-stroke at the age of 45. He later admitted that imposter syndrome drove his need to "outwork" everyone else.

4. Avoiding Exercise Due to Guilt or Exhaustion

Many executives claim they don’t have time for exercise, but for those struggling with imposter syndrome, skipping workouts can stem from deeper psychological roots. Some feel undeserving of a healthy, strong body, while others fear taking time away from work makes them appear less dedicated.

Example: A high-powered attorney canceled her gym membership because she felt guilty about taking an hour for herself. Instead, she worked late every evening, until stress and inactivity led to chronic back pain and weight gain.

Breaking the Cycle: Prioritizing Self-Care Without Guilt

Executives can’t lead effectively if they’re running on empty. Prioritizing health isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a strategic advantage. Here are five ways to break the cycle of self-neglect:

1. Reframe Health as a Leadership Strength

Recognize that taking care of your body enhances performance. Leaders who sleep well, eat nourishing foods, and move their bodies make better decisions, communicate more effectively, and sustain energy throughout the day.

Action Tip: Block off time in your calendar for meals, movement, and sleep the same way you would for an important meeting.

2. Set Boundaries Around Work and Rest

Executives must practice setting clear work-life boundaries. This includes designated work hours, scheduling time for self-care, and disconnecting from emails after a certain hour.

Action Tip: Implement a hard stop on work activities 30 minutes before bed to allow your mind and body to unwind.

3. Fuel Your Body Like You Would a Business

Your body is an asset—fuel it accordingly. Executives who prioritize balanced nutrition experience fewer energy crashes, better focus, and improved resilience to stress.

Action Tip: Keep protein-rich snacks at your desk and hydrate throughout the day to avoid energy dips and brain fog.

4. Move Your Body, Even in Small Ways

Exercise doesn’t have to be an elaborate time-consuming event. Even short movement breaks can improve blood circulation, boost mood, and increase productivity.

Action Tip: Incorporate a five-minute stretch break between meetings or take calls while walking to integrate movement into your workday.

5. Seek Support and Normalize Self-Care

Executives often feel isolated in their struggles, but discussing imposter syndrome and self-care with trusted peers or mentors can be transformative. Surrounding yourself with leaders who prioritize well-being makes it easier to do the same.

Action Tip: Find an accountability partner—someone who will check in on your self-care habits and remind you that prioritizing your health is non-negotiable.

You Deserve Success AND Wellness—No More Choosing

If you’ve been waiting for permission to prioritize yourself, this is it. Success should not come at the cost of your body, mind, or spirit. You don’t need to choose between being at the top of your field and feeling energized, strong, and well. You can have both.

Ready to take the first step?

Get the ultimate playbook for high-achieving women: Quick Wins: Micro Wellness Strategies for Executive Women

• Instant access to simple, science-backed strategies for integrating wellness into your busy schedule 

• Exclusive templates, guided journals, and video tips from Beatriz Fritschler 

• Designed for women like you—executives who refuse to sacrifice health for success

Get your copy now and take control of your well-being today.

Want to be part of a powerful community of executive women reclaiming their health? Learn more at www.executivelosers.com.

Success is yours. Health is too. Let’s make both non-negotiable.