Justin Bieber shares cryptic Instagram Story about dealing with imposter syndrome

We all have days when we don't quite feel 'enough' – and, it turns out, even when you're a mega celebrity, the same goes. Speaking to his 294 million Instagram followers this week, Justin Bieber shared a cryptic post about dealing with imposter syndrome.

Taking to his Instagram Story, new dad Justin shared his thoughts in a poem-style format and – without any additional comment on the meaning of the words – things were left open to interpretation.

Here's everything Justin said in his post:

People told me my whole life

'Wow Justin u deserve that'

And I personally have always felt unworthy

Like I was a fraud

Like when people told me I deserve something

It made me feel sneaky like

Damn if they only knew my thoughts

How judgmental I am, how selfish I really am

They wouldn't be saying this.

He ended his post with a shoutout to fans who could relate, adding, "If you feel sneaky welcome to the club, I definitely feel unequipped and unqualified most days."

On the flip side, other fans interpreted the post as a teaser for new music. Justin's fans have been eager for the musician to release new music for literal years, so this poetic post has prompted further speculation that he's about to drop a new track (or tracks) real soon...

What is imposter syndrome?

'Imposter syndrome' is a term that was first coined in 1978 by psychologists Pauline Rose Clance and Suzanne Imes. Now, five decades on, an estimated 70% of people experience imposter feelings at some point, according to an article published in the International Journal of Behavioral Science.

While it can manifest in various ways and settings, people most commonly use it to describe how they feel at work. Imposter syndrome can result in a feeling of 'survival mentality' in the workplace; it can prevent us from sharing ideas or contributing in meetings; it can impact the development of effective work relationships; and it can trigger feelings of low self esteem, to name a few.

Head here for more on imposter syndrome and how to find out if you have it.

Jade Biggs

Freelance Writer

Jade Biggs (she/her) is one of Cosmopolitan UK's freelance writers, working across all sections including entertainment, beauty, body, and sex and relationships. She previously held the position of Features Writer, covering everything from breaking news and the latest royal gossip, to the health and fitness trends taking over your TikTok feed. Jade has a degree in journalism and has been a journalist and content editor for ten years, interviewing leading researchers, high-profile influencers, and industry experts in that time. She is a cat mom to four fur babies and is obsessed with Drag Race, bottomless brunches, and wearing clothes only suitable for Bratz dolls. Follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.