People might say it’s easy to overcome imposter syndrome, but honestly it can be a challenge. If the thought, “I’m not good enough to be doing this,” or “Soon they’ll realize I don’t belong here”? or any words along those lines have crept in your mind…
You’re NOT alone!
Imposter syndrome is one of the most common struggles among creatives (actors, writers, singers, you name it…) When your work depends on vulnerability, originality, and public reception, it’s easy to feel like a fraud.
Feeling like an imposter doesn’t mean you are one though. It means you care. It means you’re stretching. And it absolutely can be managed – even transformed into creative fuel!
Today, we’re diving into how to overcome imposter syndrome, and I’m sharing 7 powerful, mindset-shifting exercises to help you break free from self-doubt and unlock your full creative confidence.
What Is Imposter Syndrome in Creative Careers?
Imposter syndrome is the persistent feeling that you’re not truly qualified or talented, even when you’ve had success or recognition. In creative careers, it often shows up as:
- Constantly comparing yourself to others
- Believing your wins are just luck or good timing
- Fearing you’ll be “found out” as a fraud
- Avoiding opportunities because you don’t feel “ready”
These beliefs are not your truth, however. They’re symptoms of self-doubt in artists, and you can overcome them.
I know, because I have suffered from this in my own creative journey.
Although I was one of the first free-diving mermaids for Ripley’s Aquarium, cast in the Jurassic World Live Tour just before the pandemic hit, and even won Best Actress for my debut feature film The Torment of Laurie Ann Cullom…
I still struggled to fully own and celebrate my success despite having so many career moments to be proud of.
My mindset had me CONVINCED I was an imposter!
Despite booking roles and receiving genuine praise, I couldn’t shake the belief that I wasn’t really good enough.
Not for the dream roles, not for the big stages, not for the success I craved.
I constantly filled my head with lies like, “I’m just an OK actor,” even though audience members would approach me after shows to say how deeply my performance moved them.
It’s not uncommon, but it is something that will hold you back until you break free from it. Your time to overcome imposter syndrome is now!
Step 1 – Recognize the Voice of Self-Doubt
Awareness is the first breakthrough to creative confidence. That inner critic might sound like it’s trying to protect you (“Don’t embarrass yourself”), but it’s actually blocking your growth.
Ask yourself:
- Would I say this to a friend?
- Do I have actual evidence this thought is true?
- What have I already accomplished that proves otherwise?
Write it all down!
When you get those swirling thoughts out of your head and onto paper, something powerful happens… you start to separate fear from fact.
Self-doubt in artists is incredibly common, but that doesn’t make it any less painful or paralyzing. Naming it is the first step. From there, you can begin to reclaim your voice, your worth, and your creative confidence.
Step 2 – Reframe the Fear
Believe it or not, imposter syndrome is often a signal that you’re growing.
I know it might not feel like it, but that discomfort means you’re stepping outside your comfort zone and into something bigger.
Instead of letting it stop you however, try seeing it as proof that you’re leveling up. Growth is rarely comfortable, but it’s always worth it in every way.
Instead of resisting it, reframe it:
“This feels scary because I care deeply about this work.”
“If I feel unqualified, it’s because I’m expanding.”
“Growth comes with discomfort and I’m doing it anyway.”
Overcoming fear in failure as a creative starts here. You don’t have to feel fearless. You just have to act anyway!
Let yourself shine in every way. Be yourself and follow your heart. Don’t let your mind have any power over your creative goals!
Step 3 – Build Creative Confidence Through Action
Confidence doesn’t magically appear. It’s built through showing up. Again, and again, and again. AND AGAIN….
Even when you don’t feel like you are seeing any growth, you have to:
- Submit the audition.
- Send the pitch.
- Publish the post.
- Film the tape.
Each act is a declaration: I’m doing this. That’s how mindset for creatives is developed. Through repetition and aligned action. You have to do the work if you want to see the results you dream of.
You are worthy of success and you are enough! Keep going, keep doing, and most importantly – KEEP BELIEVING IN YOU!
Step 4 – Stop Comparing, Start Creating
Comparison kills creativity. It’s also another contributor to imposter syndrome. You start to compare your looks, talent and everything else to someone else.
Everyone’s timeline is different though. Their highlight reel isn’t your behind-the-scenes and your path is going to look completely different than everyone else’s. That’s one the beautiful things about the entertainment industry!
You are different and you bring different unique talents to the table.
So instead of dwelling on the things that no longer serve you and contribute to your imposter syndrome, start refocusing your energy by:
- Unfollow accounts that trigger imposter syndrome
- Follow artists who inspire without pressure
- Celebrate progress over perfection
You’re not behind. You’re on your path and that’s ok!
Your Imposter Syndrome Breakthrough Worksheet
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE OVERCOMING IMPOSTER SYNDROME WORKSHEET
Step 5 – Surround Yourself With Support!
Have you ever felt alone in your career? The entertainment industry can feel extremely isolating, especially when self-doubt creeps in. Surrounding yourself with people who see you and support you changes everything.
Whether it’s a mastermind, a weekend retreat, or even one trusted accountability buddy, connection helps you remember your power.
And That’s Exactly What We Do at The Bright Stars Greenroom!
Unleash your confidence at our Halloween Mermaid Retreat
Why a mermaid retreat for actors and creatives? Because this is more than just another acting retreat. Mermaid symbolize transformation and duality, and this is a sacred, spooky, joy-filled return to your creative truth as a creative.
At the Halloween Mermaid Retreat, we step into the sea and into our confidence.
We dress up, dive deep, celebrate each other while embracing the holiday!
PLUS, we’ll shake off the doubt in salt water, tarot sessions, sound baths, and underwater photoshoots that capture your most magical self!
It’s where imposter syndrome gets left behind… and your true self gets celebrated!
If you’re craving a creative reset (a space to let go, dress up, and reclaim your artistic fire) join us this Halloween!
🧜♀️ Only a few spots and over $100 off for early sign-ups!!!
👉 Link to Retreat Info
You’re Not Alone, and You Do Belong
Feeling doubt doesn’t make you an imposter. It makes you human.
Every successful actor, performer, or creator you admire has dealt with or is currently struggling with imposter syndrome.
So the next time that voice whispers, “You’re not good enough,” answer back with:
“I’m still here. I’m still creating. And that’s enough!”
If you’re craving more creative inspiration, be sure to subscribe to my YouTube Channel @simplyshannonentertainment
