How do you deal with impostor syndrome as a graphic designer?

I think it’s also super important to reach out to other designers and creatives you trust to build you confidence. I had an amazing designer with years of experience who taught me so much, I started to realise that I knew some stuff they didn’t know, and there was stuff to learn from them. It’s also about coming to terms with the fact this line of work is also evolving and there is never an end game to our education. You will be an expert for a time but not forever if you don’t grow or adapt with the industry.

It is disappointing when I spend hours on a design and it is not appreciated. Sometimes I feel strongly that this is exciting and works, yet it is not shared by the client.

I've been a designer for almost 40 years and have never heard of Imposter Syndrome. That said, the digital age has made assets and powerful tools available to the masses. So the job of the designer as I see it is to create or combine assets in ways that are new and add value. Design is way of seeing and thinking. We all stand on the shoulders of giants.

For a large majority of creatives in several fields, 'impostor syndrome' is a common hurdle. For me the key is to remember what the definition is: "A person who pretends to be someone else in order to deceive others, especially for fraudulent gain." If you love what you do, your not scamming people, and the people like your work - Then you are not an impostor. Focus on the creation, focus on giving your best. Don't be afraid to accept compliments and reject hate. Embrace your talents and your skills. They will show you that are not an impostor. Trust in yourself. You got this far.

I believe that anyone, given enough time, can be great at anything they set their mind to. What is important to take from that, however, is that *you* are the one currently taking that step to practice your craft. Even if your work may seem easy, if you feel inadequate or inexperienced, remember that *you* are the one currently there, because *you* spent those hours learning what you love.

Amidst impostor syndrome, remember that showcasing your design achievements and recognizing your strengths is like displaying your proudest creation, bolstering your confidence. For instance, when you curated that impactful branding project last year, you demonstrated your design prowess and ability to deliver exceptional results.

When you find out that the project you were not so sure of or even hated, is a favourite for someone else, then you realize that your own negative point of view is not what someone else sees, in fact they love it. So remember we all have different tastes and there is always someone else out there who loves what you do and so believe that what you do is good and worthy of praise.

Impostor syndrome may conspire to leave you feeling isolated, uncertain, and hesitant to seek guidance or counsel. Yet, remember this: you're far from alone, and there are allies aplenty who can guide you on your journey. Reach out for the wisdom and motivation of those who comprehend your challenges and dreams. Connect with a community of fellow graphic designers, interact with peers to exchange insights, find a mentor or coach who can steer you, or engage in online courses and workshops to expand your skills. Additionally, do not shy away from soliciting constructive feedback from your clients, colleagues, or supervisors.

Design is a process and is why you will often work with a team, whether a formal team or a group of individuals from various departments. Get comfortable with the fact that you don't know everything, you have only a limited perspective and that both are okay. The team expands the knowledge and perspectives that are brought to bare on the design project. You can learn a lot from your team so take advantage of that collaboration. I have worked on both formal and informal teams and can honestly say that I learned so much about myself as designer and about the design process from those teams.

Embrace Growth Mindset: "We need learning people, not learned people!" as shared in a training by Ernst & Young. This mindset shift acknowledges that mistakes are part of progress and fuels ongoing improvement.

For me, self care has a lot to do with perspective. I find it really helpful to always be looking in both directions. Ahead, to the top design work being done which inspires me to keep chasing greatness. Behind, to see how much I've learned and grown over the years. Perspective is everything and it's impossible if we're only ever looking at designs better or worse than ours.

Don't be afraid NOT to do something. I think it's ok to turn stuff down if you feel you aren't a good fit for in favour of stuff you are, I think there's a wrong perception these days that every designer or creative can or should or want to be able do everything and every client is brilliant. It's ok to not do something if it's not right for you, working on the wrong jobs for the wrong client can be self defeating for both your creativity and mental well being. Also, avoid working for anyone looking for a 'rockstar' or 'ninja' on the job description. *That last part is very important.

I've been a professional artist for over 20 years and imposter syndrome still comes and goes. When I feel like it's negatively impacting my creativity I do two things: call a friend who gets it and will remind me that they are just thoughts and not based in reality. I also cut back on how much I look at social media and what others are doing. It's sometimes hard to remember that we usually see the good and very little of the bad - but then compare it to our whole experience and start the anxiety loop of self doubt.