Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Tips for Actors to Manage Self-Doubt and Reach Their Full Potential

Imposter Syndrome refers to a pattern of self-doubt, in which an individual questions their abilities and feels like a fraud. This term was first identified in 1978 by psychologists Pauline Rose Clance and Suzanne Imes. Even though it has been around for decades, it still affects many people, including actors. It is the idea that you have only succeeded due to luck and not because of your talent or qualifications. The inner critic (IC), also known as the saboteur, fuels self-doubt. The IC is designed to ensure our survival and hates change because our minds are designed to keep us safe. The IC will have all the reasons/beliefs/assumptions/perspectives to help maintain the status quo - and this shows up as a pattern of self-doubt, which we call Imposter Syndrome. The more ‘on purpose’ the idea/thing/situation is, the louder the IC will become. So the sign of the IC can indicate you are doing something that is important to you.

It's essential to acknowledge thoughts and feelings. Ask yourself: does that thought help or hinder me? Is it even true? What’s my reaction when I believe that thought? Who would I be without it? This acknowledgement cannot be underestimated because it immediately creates separation between you and the IC. Remember that you are not your thoughts - you’re the person having the thoughts.

To manage self-doubt, learn to think like a non-imposter. By valuing constructive criticism and seeing the bigger picture, we strengthen our connection to what is called our ‘Inner Leader.' The Inner Leader knows how to make those life-affirming choices that lead us to the fullest experience of our lives. Sharing your feelings with someone you trust is also an excellent way to manage self-doubt. We are better equipped to navigate this industry with more confidence and take risks when we have a ‘secure base.’ Your secure base is made up of the people who we know at our core will support us. They don’t seek to problem solve but are able to listen with empathy.

Mindfulness is also a great way to manage self-doubt. It is the practice of simply noticing what’s occurring in the present moment. The IC’s narrative (and insecurities) are nearly always associated with past thoughts or future fears. When we focus our full attention on the present moment, we are less likely to become overwhelmed, and we can respond to self-doubt rationally rather than reacting to it.

It’s important to remember that beliefs are just well-practised thoughts and we can choose to practice generating thoughts that are empowering and positive. Self-doubt happens to most people, and it's normal to experience it. However, it's important to manage it effectively so that it doesn't hold us back from reaching our full potential. Remember that you have what it takes to succeed in your acting career, and that your talent and hard work have brought you to where you are today.