Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Melissa Baird. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Melissa, 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.
After owning my business for 2 years I have definitely faced the looming presence of imposter syndrome. Overcoming this was hard, and to be honest I sometimes catch myself slipping back into the imposter syndrome mindset. Even though I’ve earned my Bachelor’s degree in Digital Cinema and have plenty of professional experience, I was still feeling like my creative contribution wasn’t seen as “enough”. Overcoming this feeling or mindset is something that takes conscious daily effort.
I had to stop thinking that imposter syndrome was a solely negative thing. Instead, I look at it as a way to remind myself to be open to learning from different people in the creative community. I see my fellow creatives not as competition, but as others who have different stories and experiences to learn from–allowing me to grow and develop my work. We are all working towards our goals and ambitions in life. There is so much we can learn from one another when we stop thinking with fear and negativity.
I had to reframe my mindset as one that is never jealous, never intimidated, and never truly in competition–the only person I am competing with is myself. Looking at my own growth and blessings helped me realize that I’ve accomplished so much, and there is still so much room to continue to learn and grow! I believe these “imposter” feelings can fuel high achievement. For example, when I feel myself slipping and comparing myself or my work to others, I want to push myself to the next level. I’m asking “How can I achieve that?”.
Here are a few things that helped me overcome imposter syndrome:
Celebrate your successes
Don’t brush off your successes. If someone congratulates you, don’t move on too fast. Aim to speak more positively about yourself when you respond. Taking time to celebrate yourself, whether it is big or small, can help you solidify your success.
Let go of perfectionism and share your failures
You don’t have to lower the bar, but adjusting your standards for success can make it easier to see your accomplishments. I often feel like if my work isn’t “perfect”, I shouldn’t share it. This is so detrimental to the creative process. When I don’t meet my standards, I resist the urge to see my failure as an exposure. Instead, I look at my failures as opportunities to learn and grow–which will ultimately move me toward the success I’m seeking.
Develop self-compassion
The opposite of imposter syndrome is not disregarding, rationalizing, or sweeping an issue under the rug. On the contrary, the best way to fight imposter syndrome is through self-compassion and being honest with your strengths and limitations. Rather than hiding from challenges or beating yourself up when you feel inadequate, self-compassion can overcome the avoidance tendencies that come with imposter syndrome. When you become accountable for your shortcomings you give yourself the best chance to succeed. The resilience you gain through self-compassion allows you to learn from your mistakes, evolve, and become more successful.
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?
Are you looking for digital content that’s hotter than a jalapeño’s armpit?
Buckle up boo boo.
Because this gal is bringing you amazing content faster than a toupee taking off in a hurricane.
My name is Melissa (Missy) Baird and I am CEO of Missy Films. I work as a Videographer, Editor, and Photographer with a passion for creating digital content that captivates, motivates, and inspires.
As a visual artist, I believe in creating content that captivates, motivates, and inspires. Life is made up of moments. I work within these moments to create content that moves the soul, permanently recording a feeling or emotion that’s fleeting and temporary. It is through our emotional moments, joyful or mournful, that we truly value the ticking clock in the whirlwind called life. My work strives to capture the emotional moments that are so personal yet so universal. When people look at my work I want them to feel the emotion behind the lens.
I graduated from Utah Valley University with a B.S. in Digital Cinema. Some of my work experience includes several projects with LDS Motion Picture Studios, as well as producing, filming, and editing advertising content for some of Utah’s biggest companies—such as Robert J. DeBry & Associates, Kilgore Companies, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Utah.
Upon graduating, my growing clientele has allowed me to set up my own business focused on capturing unforgettable moments for the most amazing clients in the world. I believe that integrity, quality, and hard work are vital in creating and producing successful content.
Recently, I’ve been delving into editorial photography and off-camera flash and I have been LOVING it! I am always excited to learn new techniques and work with new gear!
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?
The three most impactful things I’ve learned on my journey so far have to be:
Persistence Over Perfection
If you’re just starting as a videographer or photographer know that it is a very saturated market. Sometimes it may feel like anyone and everyone is picking up a camera and trying to do the exact same thing you want to do. BUT! Don’t let that discourage you! One of the biggest things I’ve learned in this industry is that persistence is key! That doesn’t mean you have to start out being the very best. Honestly, your first ANYTHING is going to be bad–but you have to get through your first to make it to your 100th.
You have to be ready to work. Of course, your talent and eye play into it, but if you’re not ready to put in the time and effort you will only go so far. It’s a daily grind and you have to be willing to evaluate yourself and ask, “What can I be doing better?”
Work through your lows. Stay consistent. Look for things to shoot. Have an open mind to new opportunities and chances to learn. Whether you’re a novice or a master there is always something you can learn.
Your Only Competition is You
As I mentioned before, there are thousands of other people trying to do exactly what you want to do. I’m guilty of getting sucked into the comparative scrolling on social media and it can be so detrimental to my creative process. It sparks that imposter syndrome and I end up limiting myself and my mindset when I begin comparing my work to others.
At the end of the day, the only person I should be comparing myself to is me. Instead of focusing on others’ work and comparing it to mine negatively, I reframe my mindset, “How can I do that?” or “This is amazing! I want to learn how to do this too!” This opens me up to learning and making a positive contribution to the creative community. I can support my fellow creatives and be happy for their success.
A fun fact, kindness and support to your fellow creatives cost you nothing. This also allows you to connect and create a support group as you start your journey. To be successful, compete: to be very successful compete with the best; but to be ultimately successful, compete with yourself.
The Value of Community
The value of community in the creative world is indispensable. Surrounding yourself with fellow photographers and videographers will be the best thing you could ever do for yourself. Being part of the videography and photography community has truly been a highlight of my journey! You can get support, encouragement, and advice from people who know what you’re going through, especially when you feel uninspired. By connecting with other photographers and videographers you can learn more about the craft and find answers to a lot of your questions.
It’s also a great way to make new friends! I’ve had the opportunity this past year to meet many photographers and videographers that I follow on social media and it’s been amazing to collaborate with all of them! Surrounding myself with like-minded photographers and videographers who are eager to learn and eager to share inspired me. Learning in the safe, supportive setting of a community gives you not only a sense of belonging, and a drive to learn alongside your peers and push to take risks, but it also gives you access to the wealth of knowledge in the community.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
It’s hard to narrow it down to one specific person. I’ve been blessed with an incredible family that is constantly supporting and cheering for me during my lows while pursuing my business. Whenever I feel inadequate or discouraged they’re always there for me to lean on and talk to.
As for developing the essential skills, qualities, and knowledge, a huge part of that is accredited to my mentors and professors at UVU. Also, a lot of fellow photographers and videographers in the community have helped me learn and grow immensely. There are several who have helped me connect with new people that have led to amazing opportunities. I am so grateful for the amazing community and continued support they provide.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://missyfilms.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/missy.films/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/missyfilms
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melbaird/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoAcTwUm4V4oE3C64fJtb1Q
