Creative Itch

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

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Imposter Syndrome is something we all have experienced at one point or another. But what is imposter syndrome? It is a general feeling that we are going to be found out to be a fraud, inexperienced, or just misinformed about something we thought we knew. Imposter Syndrome can lead to feelings of hopelessness, depression and dread. 

However, we can overcome imposter syndrome once we know how it sneaks up on us.

What causes Imposter Syndrome?

  • When we stop learning we think we've mastered everything. Our skills start declining as new tools, technology and changes in our audiences or process happen. The best way to overcome this is remaining teachable and being willing to learn new things.
  • When we are constantly learning we think we haven't mastered anything. This is not true as the new information is absorbed and applied to the skills and knowledge we already have. Constantly learning helps us make new and novel creative connections between different information. The best way to overcome this is writing down progress or what we've learned during the process.
  • When we overly compare ourselves to others we think we are behind or not good enough to continue. This can overwhelm us when we see the achievements of others or hear about the success the have. We can become envious or jealous of what they have achieved. The best way to overcome this is reaching out to those that inspire you and ask them about their process, tools or what inspires them. Learn from them.
  • When we chase perfection we think that things aren't good enough to share with others so we prolong completing anything. Chasing perfection will decrease your creative output and may lead to feelings of anxiousness if you are concerned others will dislike or not understand what you have put so much time and effort into creating. The best way to overcome this is to share your work anyway. If you are feeling brave ask for constructive criticism. Working on more ideas will help you refine your skills and techniques faster than constantly trying to hone something that is already pretty great.
  • When we get unearned praise we think that what others are telling us is not honest or truthful. We start thinking that the feedback we receive was just to not hurt our feelings or ego - not that the individuals meant what they said. Chances are if people are taking the time to give you feedback most of the time it will be obvious if it is genuine or trolling. The best way to overcome this is to give people the benefit of the doubt and trust that if they took time to comment instead of just skipping by - they likely mean what they said. Take the compliment and keep creating great work.
  • When we chase praise we think that what we are doing is only valuable if we get feedback from others that is is great. We all want our work to connect with audiences, but some people are more vocal than others. Do not let the lack of feedback derail you. It can take time to get traction and that is okay. Remember, what would you be passionate about creating regardless of whether people liked it or not? Then keep doing it. You'll attract the right audience just be patient and keep creating.
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    Creative ItchBy Jef Lippiatt