We were lucky to catch up with Kincaid Walker recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Kincaid, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.
I suppose it speaks volumes that I feel a little bit like an imposter alleging that I’ve “overcome imposter syndrome”! It’s an insidious feeling with which I have certainly struggled — not putting myself out there; perfectionism; fear that I have nothing to say; certain someone else is more “special” or qualified; on and on. A couple of things have helped me to push through, be seen and feel worthy to put my work boldly out into the world.
For one, I have been shocked to learn that some of the actors, writers, and human beings I most respect do fierce battle with it too. That was enlightening to me.
Second, I remember reading this fantastic quote from the great choreographer Martha Graham — “It is not your business to determine how good it is, nor how valuable it is, nor how it compares with other expressions. It is your business to keep it yours clearly and directly, to keep the channel open.” They are wise words, and I think a true antidote to imposter syndrome: trust that whatever comes through you – your experiences, your point-of-view, your art – the world needs it, and there is a reason that it’s coming through you. Don’t get in the way of your own purpose, your own special contribution to the world, by stifling it before it can come into being.
The older I get I realize the far bigger risk is not putting yourself out there, not believing in your right to take up space and have a voice.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
As an actor, writer and producer, I get to wear many hats in my career. I’m extremely fortunate to be able to pursue a life in the arts and I never take that for granted. With every project I get to be a part of, I cherish the opportunity to collaborate, learn and give my all. I’m currently working on moving several projects I have written for the screen forward as well as completing my first novel. I have amazing representation with that keep me busy on the acting side as well.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
If I could give my younger self any three pieces of advice, I’d say:
1. Be open to the opportunities which flow your way, even if they don’t come in the precise package you thought they would. It’s important to be discerning, but it’s also tempting to become cynical, insecure and doubt that what is coming to you is meant for you and intended to move you forward. Saying yes is an act of faith and optimism and self-belief, which I think is very powerful. I highly recommend it.
2. Make authentic, enduring relationships with people in your industry, and when you find one, nurture it by being reliable, accountable, and staying connected.
3. Commit to that which you feel most connected. Don’t be afraid to be specific and focus. There are so many opinions out there about what you “should” do to be successful. Don’t let yourself be pulled in directions which don’t feel authentic and take you off the path you know is right for you.
How would you spend the next decade if you somehow knew that it was your last?
Well, it’s a good challenge but also a formidable one — right now my creative partner and husband, Jason Eksuzian, and I are working on making a feature film. We’ve made a number of projects together – digital series, short films, pilots – but this will be our first feature. We wrote the script together. We want to shoot it in Iowa, in my hometown of Des Moines, and right now we are gathering the actors, production team and funds necessary to make it a reality. It’s an idea we have wanted to do for a long time, and we are excited to see it come to fruition in the near future.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.kincaidwalker.com
- Instagram: @kincaidwalker
- Linkedin: Kincaid Walker
