You overpromise when you fear that what you can actually deliver is inadequate. Obviously imposter syndrome doesn't lead inevitably to ponzi schemes, but it's

You overpromise when you fear that what you can actually deliver is inadequate. Obviously imposter syndrome doesn't lead inevitably to ponzi schemes, but it's a possible maladaptive response to those feelings. Bernie Madoff was probably competent enough to be successful at a high level, I have no idea why he actually went off the rails but I can see how imposter syndrome could lead someone in that direction.