Kicking Imposter Syndrome to the Curb

This is the year to kick the pesky imposter syndrome to the curb and move forward on your journey towards reaching your full potential. We hope the stories and lessons below will help you overcome self-doubt.

Phillip Johnson

Imposter Syndrome is an irrational fear I feel a lot of young professionals battle with considering the impact of our cultural environments & the influence of social media. As young professionals, it’s easy to get lost or caught up in what others are doing, what they’re achieving, & how they’re achieving it causing you to look at yourself & your accomplishments, feeling like you’re not measuring up. What’s allowed me to be able to overcome is managing my thoughts & being mindful; staying grounded in reality & not allowing negativity to creep in.  Read more>>

Kristina “sk8marie” Sison

Baby steps! It’s very easy to be super self critical, but having a great support system that hypes you up, and believing them definitely helps. Reframing your mindset is super important, and focusing on strengths versus nitpicking at your weaknesses is helpful too. I’ve also had to do a lot of inner work to come to terms that not everything has to be perfect. Bob Ross told us about happy accidents and we need to remember that! Read more>>

Bobbiecheri

I don’t think imposter syndrome is something you overcome. It can rear its ugly head whenever it sees fit. When I’m faced with feeling like I can’t do something or I’m not qualified, I remember two things. One, my worth or value isn’t contingent on time served, and two, I wouldn’t be here if I couldn’t be here. It’s really that simple. I know that I’m a hard working and determined woman. I position myself to be seen and sought after. I carry myself like I belong in every room so I really need to stop being surprised when I’m invited. Read more>>

Ana Elisa Ribeiro

Imposter syndrome affect many women. This is probably because we learn to feel insufficiently skilled or good enough to occupy certain positions. We need to remember that out intelligence is as big as any other and that we can reach what we want, as far as we don’t believe anything that people say to diminish us. Read more>>

Sammy Jean

One of the biggest concerts I did recently was Maggie Rogers at Michigan Lottery Amphitheater. There, I was around photographers that have been on tour, have personal connections with artists and really high tech and expensive gear. This was intimidating; however, the only way you can learn is to be immersed in an environment from which is different to the one you are used to. Though everyone felt and looked more professional than me, I introduced myself and put myself out there. Read more>>

Stacy Tim

Wow, this is a really tough question. I think social media has played a big role in feeling like an imposter in my work and skills. My work is very creative and seeing people thrive on social media can have both a positive and negative affect on my view of my skills and myself. Read more>>

Isaac Hernandez

Starting my entrepreneurial journey at 19, I was stepping into a world that felt completely out of sync with what most people my age were doing. That sense of being different, of choosing a path that not everyone understood, made imposter syndrome a constant companion. I often questioned if I belonged or if I was making the right choices. Read more>>

Matthew Lachman

Imposter syndrome is the worst. This is something I struggle with several times a year. Although I hate it, I value it. Imposter syndrome keeps my ego in check and reminds me that although I know a lot, I will never know everything when it comes to sex and relationship therapy. It helps remind me to use my resources. I have worked hard to create a network of supportive and knowledgeable colleagues who I can connect with when I am doubting myself.  Read more>>

Alex Domenici

Imposter syndrome is not necessarily something that one can completely overcome. It always remains in the back of your mind when you’re working within the film industry. The daily questioning of your own personal abilities within an industry of highly skilled individuals is what you have to become comfortable with. Finding comfort in uncertainty and the unknown is a funny way of approaching imposter syndrome but it’s the only way where you are able to operate without any shackles holding you back.  Read more>>

Neda Aria

I think in general, no creative writer and artist ever overcome the imposter syndrome. It comes and goes, like an unwelcome guest that never leaves. For me, the day I was confident enough to share my stories with the world, wasn’t a sudden bolt of confidence out of nowhere, but rather a slow, steady gain of self-acceptance. Read more>>

Vince Ranalli

I don’t think that is something I will ever overcome. I am constantly around high performing CEO’s and Entrepreneurs. I am lucky enough to have a group of high level achievers to help direct me and feel confident in my next steps. Without a core group of individuals to bounce ideas and thoughts off I do not think I would have ever moved my business of the ground. Read more>>

Danielle Crespo

For as long as I can remember, I’ve wanted to be a chef. While other kids were watching Saturday morning cartoons, I was glued to cooking shows featuring legends like Jacques Pépin, Julia Child, and Martin Yan. Cooking wasn’t just a hobby; it was a passion. I even have a drawing from second grade where I depicted myself as a chef in a coat and hat, complete with hot pink high heels because I was determined to be a boss lady chef. Read more>>

Karen Boctor

Imposter syndrome has played a role in my journey as both a Program Manager and the founder of Seattle Wellness Society. When transitioning into tech, the learning curve was steep, and without the conventional background, I was no stranger to imposter syndrome. As a Program Manager, I often find myself influencing decisions without the seniority or deep technical acumen of my peers, which can amplify those feelings of self-doubt. Read more>>

Claire Campagna

As I reflect on my journey, it’s interesting that I really only felt imposter syndrome once I decided to leave the corporate world and forge my own career path. In my corporate role, I had a respectable degree, praise from colleagues & management, and awards recognizing my achievements. I didn’t question my ability to be successful because I felt like I had all the traditional markers of it. Read more>>

Ginger Land-van Buuren

As a female General Manager of a contemporary opera company, Vegas City Opera, I overcame imposter syndrome by doing the work. There was no set path or outline as to what an opera company in Vegas should or needed to be. Vegas has a very transient population and an incredible amount of entertainment already so to create and produce one of the most expensive types of classical arts was an incredible task but because it was in Vegas we had the freedom to reimagine what this would look like for our community. Read more>>

Claire Kohler

Masks. We all wear them at times, but some wear them so well they don’t even realize they’re doing it. Hi, my name is Claire. I’m an author, tutor, editor, wife, mom, and Bible study leader. I’m also neurodivergent, specifically diagnosed with autism and ADHD. Read more>>

Michael J. Banks

Being 26 years old and endeavoring to shoot a feature film with no formal training or experience, saying I encountered imposter syndrome would be an understatement… I knew the key would be to surround myself with a team of people who not only understood the vision for the script, but had the means and the drive to help bring it to life. The key to overcoming those feelings of trepidation throughout this process was to trust in my love for filmmaking. Read more>>

Cindy Gunderson

This one is tough, but for me, a huge part of it has been breaking down the idea that we should ever know what we’re doing. I try to surround myself with other people who are taking risks, either creatively or personally. It inspires me and convinces my brain that ‘making it’ or ‘having all the answers’ was never the goal in the first place. Read more>>

Kevin Serey

I’ve had the pleasure of being on stage with a lot of phenomenal players. I used to be nervous playing alongside musicians that I considered ‘better’ than me. But the only way to get better is to share the stage with those that are better than you. I also believe that I had a role to play. Sometimes that role is to shine and other times it is to make others shine. But in a band setting, the role is to find your place within the band and make the overall song shine. Read more>>

Tim Starling

Whew…. I can’t honestly say that I have completely overcame imposter syndrome but I will say that I am further away from it than I use to be. Not to sound “clichè” but intentionally building my relationship with God really started my journey of seeing myself. I was a major people pleasure for decades because I wanted to be normal. Even when I played football, ran track or did everything with everyone else… I never felt like I fit in.  Read more>>

Leisha Thompson

For me, it was about tapping into my purpose. I had this idea come to me to build a type of business that didn’t exist yet in my industry and because it didn’t exist, it meant that I was going to have to carve the path for it to grow and be successful. Cue the instant imposter syndrome and doubts that flooded my mind thinking that I’m just a regular person and who am I to think that I could do something so innovative. Read more>>

Gerard De Carlo

To be honest I am not sure I have, I think self-doubt is a key component to channeling your drive/creativity and purpose in life. I think anyone who is good at their craft will feel those moments of thinking “why me?” or “am I actually good at what I do?” Imposter syndrome, to me, is a personal checks and balance response to ensure your own ego doesn’t grow too enormous that you lose integrity and sight of the truth of whatever you’re pursuing. It is similar to the idea of bravery. Someone being brave isn’t without fear, they just don’t allow it to stop them doing what they know they must.  Read more>>

Andrea Erlich

I occasionally grapple with impostor syndrome, but I remind myself that being an artist is a personal and intrinsic quality that cannot be dictated by others. My passion for creating art and sharing it with others is a significant source of joy for me. This enthusiasm and love for my work help to manage my feelings of impostor syndrome effectively. Read more>>

Maddy Michael

I don’t know if I’d say that I have overcome imposter syndrome; I think that I will always battle that inner voice that says I don’t belong, or I’m not smart enough. However, over the years, I’ve come to learn that everyone is simply figuring life out as they go – even in business!
I think that many of my insecurities came from making assumptions of people about how they must be smarter than me, or more capable, or more successful. Read more>>

Roxanne Engstrom

I think we must first make peace with the fact that everyone feels this! It is normal- especially when you are stepping out boldly in your gifts and talents. It does not mean you are not cut out for this- it usually is an indication you are coming to more competence and breakthrough in your busines if you have the courage to push through. Read more>>

Sibeli Velázquez

I’ve certainly experienced imposter syndrome during my professional and educational years. A huge fact that you should know is that mostly WOMEN feel it, according to studies. The first thing to have in mind in order to overcome it, is to acknowledge and understand this feeling exists and it is VERY REAL. Secondly, in our daily lives we need to recognize the triggers. Read more>>

Byron Carvil Cecil Napier

1. I visit the places where it started for me in Los Angeles. The first place is at the beach parking where I first slept in my car. I parked there pray about it and remind myself I belong here in LA. The Second place at the gym parking lot I just sit in the car for a bit breath in and out went through all the memories how hard I made it work to live in LA. Then I snap back my imposter syndrome went away for a bit but its still there just not affecting my mind interfering my mission on filming day plus remembering my lines and the directors directions on set. Read more>>

Kirsten Pursell

As an indie author, I’m not sure I will ever completely overcome the sense of being an imposter. On the other hand, I love to write and tell stories. And the fact that what I write resonates with readers acts as a form of validation, taking some of the edge off feeling like an imposter. I remind myself how lucky I am to be writing and publishing and that I have control over the process by self-publishing. I am not a patient person, so as much as I’d love to have an incredible agent and a publishing house behind me to remove some of those imposter feelings, I get to tell stories my way, on my terms. There’s no faking it that way! Read more>>

Felix Quiñonez Jr.

I don’t think of imposter syndrome as something to overcome. Instead, it’s something that rears its head periodically, and I have to deal with it. At this point in my life, I have enough experience with imposter syndrome that it’s no longer a debilitating blow. It’s more of a minor inconvenience. I usually remind myself that it comes with the territory in any creative field and life in general. I try to remind myself of how far I’ve come and how impressed my 14-year-old self would be if he saw my accomplishments.  Read more>>

Ashley Nicole

When it comes to imposter syndrome, I have it bad when I’m in the middle of filming to be honest. During filming is when I start to second guess myself badly. My Mind begins to tell me “Maybe you shouldn’t do this project after all” or “It looks terrible and cheap looking” Read more>>

Gudy Prada

I think imposter syndrome is probably one of the hardest things for musicians to deal with, and it’s important that we become aware of it and find ways to overcome it. For me, I’ve come to understand that progress is made based on the skills you have at the moment, and that’s what truly matters. Instead of letting self-doubt take over, I focus on identifying the specific areas I want to improve. I then develop a plan that fits my availability, making sure it’s realistic and achievable.  Read more>>

Tiah Khuu

Imposter syndrome is rooted in the mistaken belief that there’s a standard measurement for worth or qualification that some people inherently possess over others. In truth, there is no official system that ranks people in a definitive way. Even those in high positions can be less qualified than others, yet they still occupy those roles. The world operates with flaws, reflecting the fact that no one person is truly above another in all aspects. Read more>>