I am an imposter!

Published On: September 2, 2024Last Updated: February 13, 2026Categories: Development, Imposter Syndrome
4.6 min read

You can feel the feeling and even put a name to it, but it doesn’t resolve it. Action does.

My experience with imposter syndrome as a creative has been visceral and ongoing. Calling myself an artist isn’t easy, it comes loaded with assumptions other professions don’t attract. “Is it a hobby?” “What’s your real job?” “Do you sell your work?”

My work is personal and open to subjective interpretation. The chasm between your expectations of my talent and mine.

Tools and ideas to tackle imposter syndrome?

Understanding Imposter Syndrome

Imposter Syndrome was coined by psychologists Pauline Rose Clance and Suzanne Imes in 1978, imposter syndrome describes the internal experience of believing you’re not as competent as others perceive you to be.

In case you’re not sure if it affects you, try these on for size:

  • Doubting your skills and achievements, feeling like your success is undeserved.
  • Attributing success to luck or external factors, downplaying for accomplishments or dismissing positive feedback.
  • Fear of being exposed as a fraud, despite evidence of your abilities.
  • Over-preparing or procrastinating due to fear of failure.
  • Avoiding new opportunities because you feel “not ready” or “not good enough.

Creatives and artists face unique challenges making them vulnerable to the feelings of imposter syndrome.

Why????

My sense is the personal self-expression of creative work and the vulnerability that leads to authenticity that leads to an increased feelings of being an imposter. Coupled with galleries and critics who are arbitrary judges of a whole creative system. It is the norm to see yourself as an outsider.

 

  • The Subjectivity of Creating

    Art isn’t quantifiable! What one person likes, another disdains. Success in art is often subjective. There is no clear benchmark, and taste is largely subjective. This can make artists question our worth and validity.

  • Comparison Culture

    The rise of social media makes it easy to compare your work to others. Seeing others’ polished highlights—new gallery openings, sold-out shows, or seemingly effortless masterpieces—can make you doubt your own progress, especially if you’re struggling through a creative rut. We’ve all done it. I’m trying to do it less.

  • The “Starving Artist” Myth
    Ah the romance of the struggling artist. An idea repeated throughout history but also simultaneously seems to undervalue creative work! Seriously, what is going on with this. This creates internal conflict, leaving me to question whether my passion is worth pursuing. I don’t want to be a starving artist (and you don’t have to be!) but I also don’t want to “sell out”. We are led to believe this is a binary situation. It is not!
  • Emotional Investment
    The art we create isn’t just work—it’s a piece of our soul. I know many artists who can’t bring themselves to sell a particular piece of work, the birthing process of it ties them inextricably to the work forever. Perhaps they are most fearful of criticism (even if constructive) of something so deeply personal, and the feelings of rejection that might come up. Any criticism can be interpreted as a reflection of your self-worth which for some, may be fuelling imposter-like feelings.
  • Pressure to Constantly Innovate
    As artists often feel the need to do better with each new piece. What if our last work was our best and that was our peak. The pressure to continually innovate can lead to burnout and self-doubt. It doesn’t help if we are seeing others innovate on social media that’s for sure.

What to do: actions you can take

Step 1 – Acknowledge how you feel

Here’s the permission, if you need it, to remind yourself that this feeling is normal. Know that it does NOT reflect your true abilities.

Step 2. Celebrate your wins

Take time to reflect on your accomplishments, big or small. Keeping a success journal* can help you track progress and build confidence in your work.

3. Seek community support

Connect with fellow artists who understand the ups and downs of the creative process. Sharing your experiences can be incredibly validating and uplifting. Share your experience in the comments section here so others can learn from you too.

4. Focus on the process, not just the outcome

Shift your perspective from “How will this be received?” to “What can I explore and express through this?” Embracing the creative journey can ease the pressure of perfectionism.

5. Reframe your inner critic

When self-doubt creeps in, challenge it with facts: “I’ve created meaningful work before, and I can do it again.” Replace destructive self-talk with affirmations of your growth and talent.

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome – essential reading

The War of Art by Steven Pressfield is, in my opinion, the best book written for artists on addressing Imposter Syndrome that I’ve come across. It’s top of my essential reading list for all Artists. I tackles head on those feelings of resistance to getting starting and getting work done, including the feelings of Imposter Syndrome.

Why Your Art Matters

Every artist brings a unique perspective to the world. Imposter syndrome may try to convince you that your voice doesn’t matter, but it does. The very act of creating is a testament to your courage and passion. Remember, even the most celebrated artists have battled self-doubt—what sets them apart is their decision to keep creating despite it.

By understanding imposter syndrome and learning to navigate its challenges, you can reclaim your confidence and continue to share your art with the world. You belong here, and your art is worth sharing.

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