We recently connected with Kitty Kittykatscircus and have shared our conversation below.
Kitty, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
Growing up, I was often insecure and unsure of myself—always worried about being too much or not enough. When social media entered the scene, I was a teenager, trying to navigate life one filter at a time. I still remember posting my very first picture on Instagram, complete with an overly saturated filter (yikes, right?). It wasn’t easy being part of the first generation to experience the pressures of social media during such tender years. Suddenly, I was comparing my life to snapshots of glamorous vacations, perfect outfits, and unique skills, shared by friends, acquaintances, and strangers alike. I couldn’t shake the feeling that I just wasn’t enough—and never would be.
In my late teens, I found myself following yoga and acro-yoga artists, admiring acrobats who seemed to defy gravity. But as I watched their elegance, it only amplified my own insecurities. I longed for their flexibility, their resources, their coaches. But then, something inside me clicked. I realized I didn’t need to drown in jealousy; I could swim in inspiration instead. Their art moved me, and I could choose to let it carry me forward.
So, I dove in. I started practicing yoga, then acro-yoga, eventually becoming a certified teacher. As I grew in my circus arts, I let that same process of evolving through inspiration guide me. I still dream of mastering every art form that excites me, but for now, I’ve chosen to focus on the art of stilts—especially stilt acrobatics! Just last year, there were tricks I thought I’d never be able to pull off, but step by step (and with a lot of practice), I made them happen. And let me tell you, the success of hard work tastes oh-so-sweet.
Once I cut the cords of jealousy, my artistry blossomed. No longer do I feel like an imposter, trying to fake my way through. Instead, I recognize the effort I’ve put in, and it shows. The artists I once admired from afar are now my friends, collaborators, and teachers. We share ideas, inspire one another, and have created a beautiful, supportive community. It’s amazing what happens when you shift your mindset and open yourself to growth.
To anyone struggling with imposter syndrome, I encourage you to take a breath and, just for a moment, forget what others might think about where you’ve come from or what you’re working on. Think only of yourself. Does what you’re pursuing light you up inside? Does the thought of achieving it feel like a distant dream you just can’t stop thinking about? Then lean into that feeling. Seek out those who share your passion—people in your niche who inspire you. Reach out to them. Tell them how their work moves you so deeply that it’s pushing you to chase the same dream. Ask for advice, resources, or just a bit of guidance. Then, find your own way of doing it. Let your journey be uniquely yours, shaped by the magic only you can bring. You are wonderfully unique, with special gifts that the world is waiting to see. So go ahead—let ’em have it!
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Since learning to stilt walk, I created my brand, KittyKatsCircus, and now travel the USA as well as other countries performing with various circuses. As an entertainer, my passion is to bring joy and make people feel seen. Whether it’s a wave from across the crowd or a playful interaction up close, I love connecting with those who might otherwise feel invisible. Standing a little over 8 feet tall in clown makeup and costume, I get to create these simple yet magical moments that light me up inside as well as others.
Engaging with audiences while on my stilts is my absolute favorite, and now, I’ve manifested the opportunity to take this passion to Thailand, where I’ll be teaching stilt walking workshops. I’m overjoyed to share this art form with others and hope they find the same love and joy in it that I do.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
First is discipline. No one’s going to do the work for me. If I want to grow, I have to get myself out of bed, stay consistent with my yoga practice, stick to my training, and apply for auditions and opportunities. Of course, there are days when I lack discipline, and on those days, I don’t progress. But when I commit to my craft and dreams, even on days I don’t feel like it, the reward is always there. It’s a constant reminder that pushing through those moments leads to incredible progress—and afterward, I can rest, proud of what I’ve achieved.
The second is having the courage to face my fears. I have a history of anxiety and panic disorders, so confronting my fears can feel paralyzing. Whether it’s networking, attempting risky stilt tricks, or leaving my loved ones to travel the world, fear is always there. But I’ve learned that the most magical things happen when I face it head-on. Each time I embrace the discomfort of fear, I grow, and wonderful opportunities always follow.
Third is finding community. Reaching out to people who are already doing what I want to do has been a game changer. Asking for advice, being open to correction and constructive criticism, and having mentors and peers to lean on have all been essential to my growth. It’s not just about admiring others from a distance but connecting with them and learning from their journeys.
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
When I feel overwhelmed, I always return to the basics: breathing. Deep breathing, guided meditations, or just sitting quietly in nature helps me slow down and find a sense of calm. Overwhelm can hit us for different reasons—whether it’s fear of responsibility, feeling drained by an energy mismatch, or simply getting lost in future worries.
For me, it’s about regaining presence. Staying grounded in what I can do right now helps me shift focus from what’s beyond my control. Taking time to pause, breathe, and reconnect with the present moment is often all I need to reset.
And remember, it’s perfectly okay to take a step back and breathe deeply. You deserve the space to regroup and come back stronger.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kittykatscircus/
- Other: [email protected]
Image Credits
@stiltcircus
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
