How to Stop Feeling Like an Imposter and Start Creating Meaningful Work
Ever feel like an utter and total failure?
Like someone is going to show up at your door and tell everyone you know how bad you are at what you do?
Honestly—same.
As a creative pros, we pour our hearts and souls into our work.
We each have a unique perspective and vision to share with the world. But along with your passion and talent may come a price you never expected to pay—Imposter Syndrome.
It’s that nagging feeling you're not good enough.
That you'll be exposed as a fraud.
Let’s break down Imposter Syndrome and how to get back to the work we love.
Understanding Imposter Syndrome:
The Internal Struggle
Imposter syndrome is a psychological phenomenon.
Individuals begin to doubt their abilities and have a persistent fear of being a fraud. This of course is despite obvious evidence of their competence and accomplishments.
Creative professionals are particularly prone to this phenomenon.
We swim in the waters of subjectivity.
We compete to share every idea.
We break under the process.
These are the three traps that lure us into Imposter Syndrome.
1. The Pressure of Subjectivity
One of the contributing factors to imposter syndrome among creative pros is subjectivity
As a creative, you constantly make decisions based on your own experience and taste.
This subjectivity can lead to self-doubt. You start to question whether your work will be well-received or if it meets the standards of excellence you have set for yourself.
Here in Creativeland, there is no such thing as a clear, objective metric for success.
2. The Perils of Competition
In any creative profession, competition is fierce.
There are countless talented individuals vying for the same opportunities and recognition.
This competitive environment can exacerbate imposter syndrome. You may compare yourself (more than you care to admit) to others and feel inadequate as a result.
3. The Double-Edged Sword of the Creative Process
The creative process itself can be a breeding ground for imposter syndrome.
As a creative professional, you're constantly pushing boundaries, experimenting, and taking risks. This vulnerability can be both exhilarating and terrifying. You may question whether your ideas are truly original or if they're just a derivative of someone else's work.
Conquering Imposter Syndrome: 5 Actionable Steps for Creative Professionals
We've explored the various aspects of Imposter Syndrome and how it affects creative pros. Now let's dive into actionable steps you can take to overcome it and thrive in your creative journey.
Step 1:
Recognize and Acknowledge Your Achievements
One of the first steps in overcoming imposter syndrome is to recognize and acknowledge your achievements.
Take a moment to reflect on your journey and the milestones you've reached along the way.
Celebrate your successes, no matter how small they may seem.
Recognize the skills you do have and the things you have done.
Keep a journal to serve as a reminder of your progress.
Result: By acknowledging your achievements, you'll build confidence to silence your inner critic.
Step 2:
Embrace Your Unique Perspective
As a creative professional, your unique perspective is what sets you apart. Embrace it!
Recognize that your voice and vision are valuable contributions to the creative landscape.
Focus on honing your own skills and developing your own style.
Trust in your ability to bring something fresh and original to the table.
Result: By seeing the world through your own eyes, you offer something unique to the creative discussion. Not everyone will like it. But then again, not everyone has to.
Step 3:
Cultivate a Supportive Network
Surround yourself with a supportive network of like-minded individuals. Ones who understand the challenges of the creative process.
Seek mentors, peers, or communities where you can share your experiences.
Seek advice.
Receive constructive feedback.
Consider what changes you might make to improve your craft
Result: Building a support system can confirm and encourage you.
Step 4:
Embrace Failure as a Stepping Stone to Success
Failure is an inevitable part of the creative process.
Instead of viewing failure as a reflection of your worth or competence, see it as an opportunity for growth and learning.
Accept the lessons that come with failure.
Use failure to fuel your progress.
Result: Failure will guide you. As you fail more often, you learn just as quickly. You gain experience that will help you make better decisions.
Step 5:
Practice Self-Compassion and Self-Care
It's essential to prioritize self-care and practice self-compassion as a creative.
Take time to recharge and nurture your well-being.
Set realistic expectations for yourself and learn to embrace imperfections.
Remember, you're human, and it's okay to make mistakes or feel vulnerable.
Treat yourself with kindness and compassion, just as you would treat a friend.
Result: Self-Care will make you kinder. Your work will become energized by empathy, not ego. You’ll be able to let go of imposter syndrome because you’re no longer fighting for the same things you once did.
Final Thoughts
The fear of not measuring up can be paralyzing.
Imposter syndrome is a common struggle for creative professionals. But it doesn't have to define your journey. Even the most successful creatives have experienced setbacks and failures along the way. Embrace challenges, celebrate your successes, and continue to grow as a creative professional.
Your journey is unique, and the world is waiting to experience the magic you bring to it.
TL; DR
Imposter Syndrome is a psychological phenomenon
For creatives, imposter syndrome can be triggered by
Subjectivity
Competition
The Creative Process
Fight Imposter Syndrome in 5 Steps
Recognize and Acknowledge Your Achievements
Embrace Your Unique Perspective
Cultivate a Supportive Network
Embrace Failure as a Stepping Stone to Success
Practice Self-Compassion and Self-Care
Quote of the Week
Motivation for the days ahead of you.
“We all walk this Earth feeling we are frauds. The trick is to be grateful and hope the caper doesn’t end soon.”
— David Carr
That's all for now.
Stay creative, my friends—and have a great week!
