Student Blog: A Ruse In Character Shoes
Battling imposter syndrome in the performing arts
Imposter syndrome: it's inevitable. In a field where the "dime-a-dozen" mentality is constantly pushed on us, it can be hard not to compare and doubt yourself. It's not uncommon to have feelings that you don't deserve the opportunities you've been given, that you're not good enough, and that you don't belong. But never fear! Imposter syndrome is something experienced by actors, singers, and dancers everywhere- even theatre professionals, such as Jessica Vosk, who told me in a masterclass that even she tends to feel like she "can't sing" anymore from time to time. Due to the amount of experience we performers have with the subject, there are lots of known ways to battle and beat imposter syndrome and restore your feelings of individuality as a performer.
There are two common elements of imposter syndrome- 1. Comparing yourself to others, and 2. Feeling a lack of individuality. These are both very tough things to deal with, as a performer or in everyday life. Comparing yourself to others is extremely hard not to do, especially in a field where everyday we attempt to meet some unreachable standard of what a performer "should be"-- often wondering why we can't sing, dance, or look like anyone but ourselves. I could write essays of encouraging words on this topic, but for simplicity I will say this: in every class, interview, and Q&A I've attended with any industry professional, the top piece of advice every single person has given is to not waste time comparing yourself to others. Every second you spend putting energy into wishing you were someone else is a second you could be spending learning to love the person that you are. There's nothing wrong with admiring and praising the skills of others, just don't let it replace doing the same for yourself, as there is no one in the entire world who can perform precisely like you can- which means there is no one like you and you are CERTAINLY no "dime-a-dozen" :) cherish that.
Still, when it comes to learning to appreciate yourself as an artist, sometimes it can be hard to develop a confident sense of individuality. It's very important to be confident in what you yourself bring to the table and how you stand out- this is relevant in the theatre industry as well as everyday life. People often worry about not "standing out" enough or the dilemma of how to set themselves apart from other artists, and my best tips to this are 1. Self exploration, and 2. Living authentically in what you find. Learning who you are as a person is learning who you are as an artist- so if you're still figuring that out, have fun with that! Find out what your style is! Music! Clothes! What TV shows, books, hobbies, sports you like! All of these things go into helping you figure out what makes you you. This may sound stressful, but let it be fun! Exploring your style, interests, hobbies, and values can be a fun way to develop a strong sense of self- which leads us to my next point: living authentically in what you find! When people ask you about your interests, explain! When someone compliments you, accept! Don't be afraid to express and be proud of new things you discover about yourself. For example, I've always loved to write, and show this by sharing my plays and music with those around me. I also have been figuring out my personal style with clothes and have been getting more confident with presenting myself! It's very fulfilling to find those things that really make you feel like you, and in a professional setting, this will make you stand out and show off how developed you are as a person.
Even with these two things, imposter syndrome still gets the best of us, and even when we get an opportunity, we can feel like we don't deserve it. This can be a tough mental block to overcome, and the best thing I can say on it is to TRUST YOUR WORK! If you are put in any position in a show you may not feel good enough for, trust that you've done the work to get where you are, and that you've been put there because you deserve it. An opportunity that is meant for you will not pass you by, and an opportunity you get is always meant for you. Learning to trust this sentiment will carry you mentally through your career if you let it, and can help you reaffirm your place in this field.
No performer is a stranger to imposter syndrome. It's something everyone battles with at some point or another, and figures out their own methods towards- these are just a couple of mine! It can take time to navigate, especially if you're exploring the professional side of a theatre career. But, trusting your worth, individuality, and work you've put in will get you far and build your mental strength as a performer and a person. Be kind to yourself! A kinder field is a more successful one, and improving your feelings towards yourself will benefit you, and those in the community around you.
Videos
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The Hunchback of Notre Dame Wheaton College - Watson Fine Arts (6/05-6/14) |
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The Spongebob Musical Stageworks Arts (5/30-6/07) |
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Eureka Day Theatre Workshop of Nantucket (6/04-6/20) |
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I Draw Slow Payomet Performing Arts Center (7/13-7/13) |
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Valerie June Payomet Performing Arts Center (8/30-8/30) |
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Free Father's Day Concert New England Conservatory (6/21-6/21) |
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The Seth Rudetsky Concert Series featuring Lillias White '62 Center for Theatre & Dance (8/22-8/22) |
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The Seth Rudetsky Concert Series featuring Bonnie Milligan '62 Center for Theatre & Dance (7/11-7/11) |
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The Avett Brothers and Mike Patton present AVTT/PTTN Boch Center (6/10-6/10) |
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Bob the Drag Queen Live in Provincetown Provincetown Town Hall (8/22-8/22) |
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