combating imposter syndrome
actions to take in the face of self-doubt
During recent recordings for season 1 of narrative’s upcoming Ordinary Thoughts podcast, a recurring theme has been breathing life into our conversations. We’ve had the privilege of sitting with some incredible artists, writers, coaches, and entrepreneurs who have been feeding us priceless gems on life, the process of expression, what it means to be a BIPOC creative, and more.
From diving into microaggressions in the workplace to theories on why people of color are sometimes reluctant to display their natural hair in corporate settings, to stories about guests recalling that time J. Cole (yes, Jermaine Cole) got into a full-blown argument with his philosophy professor and won (you don’t want to miss that episode!), countless captivating topics were discussed. We cannot wait to share them with you soon. However, an element that particularly stood out to us was the common enemy that so many of us share: imposter syndrome. Let’s dive in.
You know, lots of creatives of color share this feeling of not fitting in or doubting their worth, no matter what they do. It's fascinating. There's this beast in our bellies, as Black and Brown folks, that manifests as anxiety about whether or not we deserve a seat at the table. We tend to overthink simple stuff like sharing our own art on our own social platforms to just applying for the job we’re probably overqualified for, getting tangled up in toxic comparisons, negative self-talk, and imposter syndrome. Sometimes we do this without even noticing it.
We’ve done it – tucked away good work just because we’re being overly critical of ourselves, or passed on an opportunity because we convinced ourselves we weren’t ready. We especially resonated with that immense sense of gratitude whenever we’re finally “given” an opportunity. That “I’m just happy to be here”, feeling, if you will, instead of that “I worked hard for this. I earned this spot fair and square" truth. Then we step into those positions, rooms, or opportunities we so rightly deserve, and the overwhelming sense that we’re intimidating those around us is suffocating– those who only got there thanks to a connection at the top, rather than the grit of their skills or experiences.
But then, boom. It happens. When we finally do the thing we’ve been telling ourselves we’re underqualified for – go for that job, publish that work, make that pitch – we experience that "damn right I did” feeling that blows the “I’m not ready, not qualified” feeling out of the water. That feeling alone is worth chasing. It's like when we finally get that chance, we realize the hardest part was taking the first step. If you’ve shared these feelings with us, here are a few reminders for when you’re selling yourself short.
Be scared and do it anyway. Somebody famous definitely said this. But the point is, it’s going to get done with or without you, so let it be YOUR voice, your vision. Do the thing folks who look like us or speak like us hardly ever get to do: the chance to claim space in this world; the chance to be seen, to be heard.
Celebrate the small wins. Take the time to acknowledge and celebrate your successes, no matter how small they may seem to you. In the sprint toward success, sometimes we forget to celebrate the distance we’ve already achieved. Wrote a few words down? Made a few brush strokes? Met a deadline? Got that workout in? Took some time to rest? Good sh*t, fam! You did that. Hug yourself and keep moving forward tomorrow.
Lean into your community. As the adage goes, “it takes a village.” Surround yourself with supportive people, albeit family, friends, or fellow creatives, who understand what you're going through. If one thing’s for certain, you’re not alone. Sharing a safe space with others can help alleviate feelings of comparison and isolation that come with otherwise being the only Black or Brown person in the room.
There are so many more reminders to embrace our unique journeys, practice kindness untoward ourselves, and lean into our people, in the upcoming season of Ordinary Thoughts. We promise you’re not going to want to miss it!
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