*Note: This blog was originally published on Medium for CourseCraft – 2/13/20
Chances are, you’ve heard a friend or loved one question if they are “good enough” to be in their current position, career or otherwise. They might even feel like they’ve inadvertently pulled a fast one on their employer. You reassure them of their skill and worthiness without a second thought.
Then why is it so hard to be that reassuring friend, to yourself?
What is imposter syndrome and who does it affect?
Oxford Dictionary describes Imposter Syndrome as “the persistent inability to believe that one’s success is deserved or has been legitimately achieved as a result of one’s own efforts or skills.” This feeling is so common that according to one Psychology Today study, it’s estimated that around 70% of people have experienced this at one point in their life.
Artists, designers, and people in other creative industries are unfortunately prone to feeling this way even more often. Dr. Valerie Young, an expert on Imposter Syndrome notes that “The nature of creative work makes everyone more vulnerable to feeling inadequate and even more so if you are not classically trained.”
Additionally, women creatives may feel additional pressure and uncertainty. It’s theorized that this is because girls are often socialized to be more risk-averse than boys during childhood. Cara Maksimow, LCSW shares that “in careers that are more male-dominated, women feel isolated and begin to doubt themselves and their ability to be where they are — despite the evidence that they deserve to be there.”
What are some ways to overcome Imposter Syndrome?
So if female creatives are especially prone to these feelings, how can we combat them in order to feel a sense of belonging and deserved success?
1. Accept help and connect with people you respect in your field.
Connecting with creative mentors and peers you respect will help you understand that you’re not alone in feeling like an imposter. Dr. Jason Eckerman shares that “part of what makes impostor syndrome so powerful is the feeling that we’re not able to talk about it without exposing ourselves as being a fraud.”
Sharing those feelings and learning how others deal with their own insecurities can be tremendously helpful, even if it can initially feel scary. Successful serial entrepreneur Nathalie Molina Niño “used to think power was about outcomes and getting shit done, but [she doesn’t] think that is the case anymore,” she explains. “Power comes from allowing yourself to be supported.”
2. Write down and acknowledge your accomplishments in a real way.
Think of this as your personal resume, solely for the purpose of reminding you of all that you’ve done and what growth you’ve been through creatively. Take time to list your previous projects, partnerships, and jobs, as well as more general points of strength and success.
Make sure to keep this updated, and look back on this list when you’re feeling a pang of imposter syndrome. Seeing these things written out can help serve as a concrete affirmation, and help you fight self-doubt.
3. Work towards taming your perfectionism and stopping constant comparison.
Easier said than done, but comparing yourself to others is a losing game. It’s impossible to really know what luck, privileges, or simply more time has lead to your favorite artists’ success. Holding yourself to a perfect standard that may not even be possible, will only increase feelings of being “not good enough”.
Freelance graphic designer Lauren Koste reminds us that “ You are not perfect. Those brilliant creatives you follow on Instagram aren’t perfect. Perfection isn’t a thing”!
You’re not alone in feeling this way and you can overcome it!
The number one thing to remember is that most people feel this way at one point or another in their life, especially women in creative jobs. It’s perfectly normal, and there’s nothing wrong with you!
Imposter Syndrome, when not worked on, can be a roadblock to future successes. Surround yourself with supportive mentors and peers, keep track of your wins, and work every day on being kinder to yourself. You are the origin of your own success, celebrate it!