Overcoming Imposter Syndrome as a Creative.
As a creative, you may have experienced imposter syndrome at some point in your life. Imposter syndrome is the feeling that you are not good enough, talented enough, or qualified enough to do what you do, and that you will be exposed as a fraud sooner or later.
Know this, Imposter syndrome can affect anyone, but it can be especially challenging for creatives, because there is no objective way to measure the quality of your work. You may constantly compare yourself to others, doubt your abilities, or feel like you don’t belong in the creative community.
Imposter syndrome can hold you back from pursuing your passion, sharing your work, or applying for opportunities. It can also affect your mental health and well-being, causing anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, or depression.
So how can you overcome imposter syndrome as a creative? Here are some tips that may help:
1. Recognize and acknowledge your feelings. The first step to overcoming imposter syndrome is to admit that you have it. Don’t ignore or suppress your feelings of insecurity or inadequacy. Instead, try to name them and understand where they come from. For example, you may feel like an imposter because you didn’t receive formal education in your field, because you received negative feedback in the past, or because you have high expectations for yourself.
2. Challenge your negative thoughts. Once you identify your feelings, try to challenge them with evidence and logic. For example, if you think that you are not talented enough, list some of your achievements and accomplishments that prove otherwise. If you think that you don’t belong in the creative community, remind yourself of the people who support and appreciate your work. If you think that you will be exposed as a fraud, ask yourself what would happen if that were true, and how likely it is to happen.
3. Celebrate your successes and learn from your failures. Another way to overcome imposter syndrome is to acknowledge and appreciate your successes, no matter how big or small they are. Celebrate your milestones, achievements, and progress, and don’t downplay or dismiss them. At the same time, don’t be afraid of failures or mistakes. They are inevitable and normal parts of the creative process, and they can help you grow and improve.
4. Seek feedback and support from others. Imposter syndrome can make you feel isolated and alone, but you don’t have to deal with it by yourself. Seek feedback and support from other creatives who understand what you are going through. Ask for constructive criticism and advice on how to improve your work, but also accept compliments and praise when they are given. Join online or offline communities where you can share your work, network with others, and find inspiration.
5. Embrace your uniqueness and authenticity. Finally, remember that there is no one right way to be a creative person. You have your own style, voice, vision, and perspective that make you unique and valuable. Don’t compare yourself to others or try to fit into a mold that doesn’t suit you. Instead, embrace your authenticity and express yourself honestly and confidently.
