The paradox of certain high potentials

The paradox of some high potentials: why do so many HPs feel 'average' (and how to free themselves from it)?

People with high intellectual potential (HIP) are often perceived as brilliant individuals, with exceptional cognitive abilities. However, many of them feel average, or even downright ordinary. A troubling paradox that often leads to profound questioning . Why this persistent impression of being “just normal”? And above all, how can we free ourselves from it?

1. A brain that analyzes everything… including its own limits

HPs have a tree-like mindset and a high analytical capacity. While this quality allows them to understand the world with finesse, it can also trap them in a loop of permanent self-evaluation. Rather than focusing on their strengths, they are more inclined to spot their flaws, their shortcomings or what they have not yet mastered .

According to the work of Jeanne Siaud-Facchin, a psychologist specializing in giftedness, the hyperlucidity of HPs can lead them to constant self-criticism, preventing them from recognizing their own value.

2. The bias of normalization in high potential: "If I do it easily, it's because it's not extraordinary"

HPs tend to downplay their talents. Why? Because they often think that what they do naturally is within everyone's reach . If a task seems obvious to them, they assume that it is also obvious to others, which prevents them from fully appreciating their difference.

For example, an HP person who understands and applies a new skill in a matter of hours may have difficulty understanding why it takes others weeks to master it. Rather than recognizing this speed as a unique skill, they think, "Anyone could do this if they just put their mind to it."

3. Social comparison: an endless trap

HPs often compare themselves… but not to just anyone. They tend to refer to people they consider even more competent than them, which leads them to think that they are behind or less gifted. This biased comparison fuels an unjustified feeling of inferiority.

Research by Dunning and Kruger showed that the most competent individuals often underestimate their own level, while the least competent tend to overestimate it. An effect that particularly affects HPs, who often rub shoulders with other brilliant minds and thus lose all sense of normality.

4. Impostor syndrome: an omnipresent shadow

Impostor syndrome is a common feeling among HPs. It leads them to believe that they do not really deserve their success and that they must constantly prove their worth. This chronic doubt prevents them from appreciating their successes and locks them in a cycle of stress and self-demand.

The most common “symptoms”:

• Attributing his successes to luck rather than skill

• Constant fear of being “unmasked”

• Feeling of never being qualified enough

How to get rid of it?

• Becoming aware of cognitive bias : Understanding that our brain downplays our strengths is the first step in countering this tendency.

• Learn to value your skills : Make a list of your successes and situations where your abilities really made a difference.

• Change perspective : Compare yourself not to world experts, but to yourself a few years ago. This allows you to measure your real progress.

• Accept that effort is not always necessary to be legitimate : A talent remains a talent, even if it is exercised without apparent effort.

The paradox of high potential is based on a combination of heightened analytical thinking, cognitive biases, and a pervasive imposter syndrome. The good news? It is possible to detach yourself from it by learning to recognize your own value and by changing your self-perception. Rather than trying to "measure up," it may be time to accept that you are already higher than you think. 😉

Need support?

I am Marie-Claire, a holistic therapist specializing in supporting high-potential (zebras), hypersensitive and empathic people.

I help you find your place and reveal your full potential!

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