What Is Imposter Syndrome and How Do You Push Back Against It?
Fitting into a specific group does not come easily to everybody. Some people are more disposed to feeling like an outsider in some settings, even if they are not. No matter the underlying cause or stressor, this is a common experience among all groups. This feeling has several different clinical names, but the most common is imposter syndrome.
For writers, imposter syndrome manifests in unique ways, often comparing yourself to others. Imposter syndrome can affect you if you are looking to become a first-time author or are already a seasoned pro. It does not discriminate. This article examines the ins and outs of imposter syndrome in the literary world.
A Summary of Imposter Syndrome
The name imposter syndrome, also known as imposter phenomenon, neatly describes what it is. When you suffer from imposter syndrome, you feel like you do not belong because you are unskilled, inexperienced, or lesser. In other words, you are an imposter to the situation and it affects your mental state.
All people across industries can suffer from imposter syndrome. However, writers and other artists have unique ways their imposter syndrome manifests. Artists work within a creative field in which you can directly compare works. Some people are more predisposed to look at others’ successes and feel inferior. This is especially true when some authors are more financially successful, win awards, and have more name recognition.
Imposter Syndrome in Specific Demographics
Not everyone experiences imposter syndrome, but for those who do, there are some people more likely to have it. Often, imposter syndrome is based on a relative lack of experience and being a newcomer in an environment. But, there is more to it than that.
One of the most common factors that makes someone more likely to feel like an outsider is based on identity. For example, racial, gender, age, and cultural minorities may feel insecure. This can also include immigrants, queer people, and those from a lower socioeconomic status. Each of these factors can make someone feel like an imposter in their status or success. Further, belonging to multiple groups can increase how much of an imposter one feels like.
Outside of identity, some people are simply more likely to feel imposter syndrome because of their personalities. Specifically, those who already have anxiety disorders or a history of insecurities are susceptible to imposter syndrome.
Managing Imposter Syndrome
If you experience imposter syndrome, there are ways to mitigate those feelings. Everyone has different ways of coping with stress and insecurity, so these are just some examples.
The biggest recurring theme is to focus on your mindset in these situations. While you cannot always control your emotions or thoughts, you can practice managing this. You can practice mindfulness exercises that impact your feelings of insecurity.
This is all a form of self-care that can skyrocket your confidence in all parts of your life. When practicing mindfulness, focus on the positives of your situation, and remember that everyone started in your shoes. You are in the space you are in for a reason, otherwise you would not be in it. Your success might look different than other people’s, so celebrate that. Use it to your advantage instead of letting it hurt your confidence.
For people who truly feel that they are underskilled, hone your skills. Talk to others in your community who might be helpful, and they can give you advice. You are not alone in any community you are in, so do not act like it. Ask for help and support, if you need it.
Finally, if you are working with a publisher, they have invaluable resources at their disposal. Most people will never have the chance to work with professional publishers, so use them as much as possible. At Cloverly Children’s, we foster your entire publishing journey, from drafting to publishing. All of our authors receive our full support on their path to becoming publishing authors.
