The perception that "everyone looks as though they know what they are doing" can be attributed to a psychological phenomenon called the "imposter syndrome" or "imposter phenomenon." It refers to the feeling of inadequacy and a persistent fear of being exposed as a fraud despite evidence of competence and accomplishments. People who experience imposter syndrome often believe that others are more competent and confident than they are, even when it might not be the case.
In reality, many individuals, even those who seem confident and knowledgeable, might be experiencing self-doubt and uncertainty behind the façade they present. They may have their insecurities and fears, but they choose not to show them openly. This phenomenon can lead to a collective belief that "everyone else knows what they are doing."
As for why some individuals fault others for not knowing what they are doing, there can be several reasons:
Projection: Sometimes, people project their insecurities and self-doubt onto others, making them overly critical of others' mistakes or perceived lack of knowledge.
High Expectations: Some individuals have high expectations of themselves and others, leading them to be less forgiving when others fall short of those expectations.
Defense Mechanism: Blaming others for not knowing what they are doing can be a defense mechanism to protect one's self-esteem. It shifts the focus away from their own shortcomings.
Lack of Empathy: Empathy allows individuals to understand and relate to others' struggles and challenges. When empathy is lacking, people may be less understanding and more likely to fault others.
Competitive Environment: In highly competitive settings, some people may be quick to criticize others as a way to assert their own competence and gain an advantage.
Misunderstanding: Sometimes, people may misinterpret someone else's lack of knowledge or mistakes as intentional incompetence, leading them to assign blame.
It's essential to recognize that everyone has their strengths and weaknesses and that nobody knows everything or is perfect. Encouraging a supportive and understanding environment where people can openly discuss their challenges and seek help without fear of judgment can help break the cycle of fault-finding and promote a healthier and more collaborative atmosphere.