Artist-entrepreneur: How to overcome imposter syndrome?

Ahhh, that infamous imposter syndrome…

the one that blocks us, holds us back, and limits our creative momentum.

You know, that lingering doubt. That little voice whispering: "Who do you think you are to put yourself out there?"… Is this something you experience too?

Unfortunately, it affects many artists, no matter their level of experience or years in the field.

That feeling of not deserving success, doubting your legitimacy, or fearing you’ll be "exposed" can stifle your creativity. And if there’s one thing we don’t want as artists, it’s seeing our creative ideas fade away.

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Moreover, I had already heard that it shouldn’t even be called “impostor syndrome,” because that label actually prevents us from learning. It’s as if those words create a feeling that stops us from giving ourselves permission to learn.

As with everything, the more we mess up, the more we grow. Everyone started somewhere and it wasn’t amazing at first. You probably fell several times while learning to walk. So what? Today you walk, maybe you even run!

Everyone has been mediocre at some point, and it’s through repetition, testing different approaches, and learning by trial and error that we become good, better, and even excellent.

Does that resonate with you?

But even if no one is immune to it, everyone can learn to manage it so it doesn’t become a burden.s.

Here are a few strategies to help you overcome impostor syndrome and strengthen your mindset as an artist-entrepreneur.

1. Learn to recognize it when it starts to show up

The first step in overcoming impostor syndrome is recognizing it when it tries to throw obstacles in your way. By trying to understand why it’s showing up at that moment, you give yourself a better chance of overcoming it — and it becomes less likely to slow you down.

2. Redefine success and failure

What if you saw success as an ongoing learning process and failures as opportunities for growth rather than final verdicts? Can you already see how powerful that shift in perspective could be?

3. Celebrate your achievements

Make a conscious effort to acknowledge and celebrate your successes, whether big or small. Don’t worry — you’re not alone. Few entrepreneurs adopt this habit, but it can be incredibly beneficial. It allows you to appreciate what you’re doing amazingly well instead of immediately jumping to the next project.

Why not keep a journal where you write down your daily accomplishments and the positive feedback you receive? This will strengthen your confidence in your skills and your sense of legitimacy.

4. Build a support network

Surround yourself with people who understand and support you. Whether they are mentors, fellow artists, or online communities, a support network can offer reassuring outside perspectives and valuable encouragement. These people may come from different backgrounds, but what matters most is feeling that they are truly part of your support system.

5. Embrace imperfection

Accepting imperfection as an integral part of the artistic process is essential. Give yourself permission to create without striving for perfection from the very beginning. Make room for experimentation and risk-taking. It will make the process feel lighter and ease the pressure on your shoulders.

6. Practice self-compassion

Practicing self-compassion means treating yourself with the same kindness you would offer a dear friend. When faced with self-doubt, remind yourself that these feelings are completely normal, and learn to be gentle and understanding with yourself.

Take action to counter your impostor syndrome

As Vincent van Gogh once said:

« If you hear a voice within you say, ‘you cannot paint,’ then by all means paint and that voice will be silenced »

I’m not Van Gogh, but I want to remind you that your impostor syndrome doesn’t mean you’re an impostor it simply means you’re stepping outside your comfort zone.

That’s why I’ve prepared a short exercise to help you recognize your limiting thoughts and put them back in their place.

Exercise: The Evidence Inventory

1. Take a sheet of paper and write down five things you’ve created that you’re proud of.

2. Think about what those creations sparked in others (reactions, messages, sales…) and write those down as well.

3. There’s YOUR proof. You’re not making it up you are legitimate.

Impostor syndrome should not hold back your journey as an artist-entrepreneur. By cultivating a resilient mindset and applying these strategies, you’ll learn to navigate self-doubt and fully embrace your creative potential.

RRemember, you’re not alone and every artist, including those you admire, has likely gone through similar feelings.
You deserve to be where you are today, in YOUR place.

👉 You don’t have to wait until you feel “ready.” You just have to begin one small step at a time.

Would you like more advice and support to reach more people, grow your audience, and make a living from your art?

Join our free Facebook community, where artist-entrepreneurs like you come together to share and connect: Artists and Entrepreneurs turn your creativity into income and profits.

I also talk about the well-known impostor syndrome in these vidéos here.