Imposter syndrome: It’s frustrating, it’s exhausting, and it’s something most of us will deal with at some point in advertising. But here’s the truth: you’re not an imposter.
Unless you’re claiming to be a powerful copywriter by the name of Andrew Radlowski. Then you are an imposter and may be surprised to learn you owe the IRS a great deal of money. Good luck. Anyway, here are my sincere thoughts on overcoming imposter syndrome.
Realize you’re not alone
That’s it. Everyone good at what they do feels or has felt it. So, if you feel impostor syndrome creeping, congrats—you’re in good company.
Celebrate your wins (even the little ones)
Did you nail that presentation? Get a client nod of approval? Make the room laugh at your bonus idea that involves sending a chimp to space? Celebrate it and keep track of these. You’ll thank yourself later.
Don’t compare your every day to someone else’s highlight reel
Your favorite creative with the groundbreaking campaigns? Yeah, they struggle too—you just don’t see it. Remember, you’re seeing their polished final draft, not their rough first attempt. Focus on your growth, not someone else’s highlight reel.
Lean into feedback
Yeah, constructive criticism can sting, but it’s the way you’ll grow. Take feedback as a gift, not a judgment of you as a creative or leader. It’s fuel. And when you get that less-common glowing review? Bask in it like it’s a sunny Friday afternoon.
Keep learning
Imposter syndrome loves to hang out in the unknown, so keep sharpening your skills. Take a course if it looks interesting even if you have “senior” in your title, stay up on the latest good work, and follow the careers and work of others who you think are killing it. The more you know, the quieter that inner critic gets.
Remind yourself why you got into this
You got into advertising for a reason—it can’t be because you liked Mad Men. You impostor! Nah, no one cares, this is just for you. Maybe you’ve always loved wordplay, storytelling, or you’ve always looked at ads and thought they could be better/funnier/Shaq-ier. Whatever it is, reconnect with that passion when the cold, dead hands of doubt creep in.
Find your tribe
Surround yourself with fellow creatives or teammates who get it. Share your wins, laugh about the setbacks, and support each other. Community makes all the difference.
Fake it ‘til you make it
Sometimes, you’ve got to play the part until you feel the part. Walk into that brainstorm like you’re that inspiring leader or the most talented copywriter ever, which I know is impossible because that title belongs to Clippy. Even if you’re not feeling it, confidence will catch up eventually.
and finally …
Imposter syndrome doesn’t mean you’re not good enough – it means you care about what you’re doing. And for the number of hours we spend at this, you should. Caring is what makes you a great creative or team lead. It gives you the energy to improve, to be open to inspiration, and to make your next thing better than the last.
The next time you hear a voice whisper “Who do you think you are?” Answer it with confidence: “I’m someone who’s still learning, still growing, and still killing it.” Keep writing, keep hustling, and keep proving that voice wrong. This writer firmly believes it’s time we stop questioning ourselves and “Live Mas.”
