You belong
Do you ever find yourself feeling like a fraud? Like maybe you don't really belong here or that any success that comes your way is just luck?
If so, you're likely experiencing Imposter Syndrome - the persistent inability to internalise one’s accomplishments and an acute sense of being "not good enough."
Many creative leaders across industries are intimately familiar with and struggle to overcome it. Awareness of this tricky phenomenon and how it manifests can equip us with the tools we need to move through the discomfort and stop imposter syndrome from sabotaging our creativity. But there are strategies for combating impostor syndrome so you can reclaim your rightful place as a leader in the creative process.
What is Imposter Syndrome, and why does it matter to creative leaders
Imposter Syndrome is a sneaky little voice that creeps into the minds of many of us, making us doubt our abilities and feel like frauds. But as a creative leader, it's important to recognise it for what it is and push past it. After all, the last thing we want is for our brilliant ideas to be stifled by self-doubt. By acknowledging our skills and accomplishments, we can start to quiet that voice and allow our creativity to shine.
How can we recognise it in ourselves and our teams
Recognising strengths and weaknesses can be challenging, but it's crucial to making progress as individuals and as a team. It takes a certain level of self-awareness to recognise our own strengths and weaknesses, but it's equally important to be able to identify them in others. When we can be honest with ourselves and our colleagues, we can work towards developing and leveraging our strengths while finding ways to improve where we fall short. This leads to individual growth and builds a strong and cohesive team.
Strategies to help banish imposter syndrome in the creative process
As a creative, it's natural to second-guess yourself sometimes. But it can be hard to shake off when those doubts become a full-blown case of imposter syndrome. Luckily, there are strategies you can use to help banish those negative feelings and regain your confidence. One of the most effective tactics is to focus on your strengths and accomplishments. Instead of dwelling on your perceived weaknesses, remember all the times you've succeeded in the past. Another helpful approach is to share your struggles with others in your field. Chances are, they've dealt with imposter syndrome, too and can offer valuable insights and support.
Imposter syndrome is a common feeling that can plague even the most successful creatives. However, it's important to note that these feelings of doubt and self-criticism can be overcome. Take, for instance, actor Emma Watson, who shot to fame at a young age and struggled with feeling like a fraud. She tackled this head-on by seeking therapy and focusing on the impact she was making with her platform. Another example is writer Roxane Gay, who has spoken candidly about her struggle with imposter syndrome. She emphasises the importance of acknowledging these feelings while pushing forward towards your goals. And let's not forget the legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese, who has shared how he grappled with feelings of inadequacy as a filmmaker. His advice? "Keep working - it's the only way." These successful creatives prove that imposter syndrome does not have to hold you back - it's all about finding the right mindset and tools to conquer it.
“Creative leaders have the power to shape the culture of their workplace and foster a sense of inclusion and belonging. This begins with a commitment to diversity and an understanding that different perspectives bring value to any team. Leaders who actively seek out a wide range of perspectives and encourage open communication can help employees feel heard and valued. Additionally, creating opportunities for team members to connect professionally and personally can go a long way in building a strong sense of community. By prioritising inclusivity and making it a part of the company’s DNA, creative leaders can attract and retain top talent and foster an environment where diverse ideas thrive. Toss aside outdated notions of a one-size-fits-all approach and embrace the diverse and dynamic team we’re lucky to lead.”
As creative leaders, we are the driving force behind the success of our teams. We must foster an environment that encourages creativity, instils confidence, and ultimately leads to success. We must take a stand and influence by leading by example. Inspiring our teams to think outside the box and push the boundaries of what is possible. We have the power to shape the future of our industry and make a real impact on the world.
It's paramount that creative leaders recognise imposter syndrome as an issue impacting the creative process and take conscious steps to remove these stifling barriers. Investing in the well-being of your team not only leads to virtuous outcomes for creatives but also increases productivity, innovation, and creativity across the board. Work environments that foster inclusion and belonging result in a sense of psychological safety for creatives, allowing them to take risks without fear – which is key to driving success. We need creative leaders worldwide to stand together and work on creating an environment where our teams can be their creative best.