Hello, imposter syndrome, my old friend…
In all seriousness, if you’re a creative, you’ve very likely dealt with imposter syndrome, that unexplained internal feeling that you’re not as competent as others perceive you to be. Another standard definition of imposter syndrome is the belief that the only reason you’ve succeeded is because of luck, not your talent or qualifications.
Sound familiar?
Pull up a chair and your favourite warm and cozy beverage, my friend; let’s talk about how to deal with imposter syndrome as a creative…
Imposter Syndrome Can Get Real Tough For Us Creatives…
Imposter syndrome is very widely experienced, but I honestly believe that when you’re an online creative entrepreneur, working from your deep-rooted passion and constantly sharing your vulnerabilities and creative energy, you’re especially susceptible to imposter syndrome.
When I first was beginning the copywriting side of my business, I felt like a complete and total imposter because I didn’t feel like I was qualified enough. There’s no master seal of approval to become a copywriter, but I somehow felt that my BA, Graduate Diploma in PR and five years of corporate marketing experience weren’t enough! – I know now that couldn’t be further from the truth, but at the time, I couldn’t see that)
I vividly remember that I would have to mentally prepare myself with affirmations before every single discovery call that pumped me up. Things like…
I am a badass copywriter.
I am a sought-after, wildly in-demand copywriter.
As you can see, even in imposter syndrome, limiting beliefs also come into play – the two are very deeply ingrained with one another.
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome…
The best way forward from imposter syndrome is to play the role of the gentle observer. When you notice yourself falling into imposter syndrome, recognize it and gently observe it. Don’t beat yourself up or get mad at yourself for it- that will not help you at all! Be kind to your mind.
Recognize it – oh hey, imposter syndrome, you’re not so interesting – and move on.
When you get upset or angry with yourself because you caught yourself falling into an imposter syndrome pattern you’ve been trying to break, you’re just going to make yourself feel worse, my love! You’re the only one who is in control of your happiness and what you choose to feel. Choose to forgive yourself and the imposter syndrome thought, and choose again. Choose love over fear.
This piece of being kind to yourself is essential in effectively dealing with imposter syndrome. So is recognizing that you are far from the only one who has experienced it!
You’re Not Alone!…
Here are some famous (and quite impressive) creatives who have experienced imposter syndrome and flourished despite t! If they can do it, so can you!
“The beauty of the impostor syndrome is you vacillate between extreme egomania and a complete feeling of: ‘I’m a fraud! Oh God, they’re on to me! I’m a fraud!’ . . . just try to ride the egomania when it comes and enjoy it, and then slide through the idea of fraud.” – Tina Fey (Source)
“I have written 11 books but each time I think ‘Uh-oh, they’re going to find out now. I’ve run a game on everybody, and they’re going to find me out.’” – Maya Angelou (Source)
“The exaggerated esteem in which my lifework is held makes me very ill at ease. I feel compelled to think of myself as an involuntary swindler” – Albert Einstein (Source)
EVERYONE from hilarious modern-day comedian Tina Fey to award-winning novelist and poet Dr. Maya Angelou to Albert Einstein – EVERYONE experiences imposter syndrome.
May this be your light to see that you are never alone.
Working through imposter syndrome will be something that will take diligent work and commitment to being the gentle observer so you can gently correct your narratives and thinking. One of my favourite tools for really rewiring these beliefs is mantras and affirmations. Here are some for you to try if you feel inspired!
Anti-Imposter Syndrome Affirmations…
I am an absolute badass at what I do
I am a sought-after expert in my field
I am a creative soul with gifts to share
There is only one person in the world who possesses my unique set of personality traits, skills, gifts, talents, thoughts, beliefs… and that’s me!
My success is no accident; it’s the result of intentionally serving from my heart.
Journaling Helps Creatives Work Through Imposter Syndrome!
Journaling allows you to… * Rewire limiting habitual ways of being * Give spotlight to your intuition’s voice * Provide a solstice of self-care * and develop a resilient mindset These prompts are here to guide you when you need to dig deep into your own resilience and self-love.
About Lauren
As a multi-passionate creative who’s lived + thrived through 20+ years of chronic anxiety, I love to help fellow creatives identify the magic already within them. I can help you with feelings of comparison, imposter syndrome, scarcity, shame, and other blocks that are standing between you and thriving in your creative business. I’m here to show you that there’s no one way of doing things… just your way.
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