I would say that I generally feel pretty competent, while still being able to recognize my limitations. The concept of being in a role where you feel like an imposter seemed silly to me at first. Obviously, you wouldn't be in that role if you the people who put you there didn't have confidence in you, so why think otherwise? Right...
That was until I started my own small business and giving myself the title of "photographer" felt like overstepping. Or until I actually started to enjoy posting on Instagram, but didn't have a large following, and didn't really want to be coined as "an influencer." I put in the work to invest in a professional camera, I spent time learning how to use my editing software, and I stepped into this role. Yet still, the thought of people choosing ME to capture their biggest moments seemed unreal.
A lot of people would probably say, "Woah... Andrea, don't advertise that you're not secure in the services you're offering," but let's clarify–– I am confident/secure in my ability to photograph. I have looked at my work and been astonished and amazed by the outcome. I have taken photos so emotion-filled that I have been brought to tears while editing. I post things that I am truly passionate about, and that I believe serve a purpose. But for me, imposter syndrome is less about that, and more-so "why me?" What I struggle with isn't my ability to do my job well, but rather seeing where I fit into an environment that is already so saturated with talent and valuable content. It feels kind of crazy putting your stuff out there, let alone getting asked to capture someone's graduation photos, vow renewals, or maternity photos.
These inquiries will always be one of my greatest honors. People share some of their biggest milestones, proudest moments, and intimate occasions with me. They trust me to express their joy, their pride, their togetherness, and excitement through my photos and the way I see the world, and that is humbling beyond measure. But in that, what does imposter syndrome look like for me, and how do I combat it?
What it looks like:
- Why me?
- What is so special about my work?
- Why should people listen to what I have to say, I'm not an expert?
- Nobody honestly cares about your work.
How do I combat it?
The simple answer––with the truth.
- I answer these questions and remind myself who I am and what the worth IS in my work. I am a Christ-loving, warm, kind-hearted, woman that "loves love" and extends herself in investing deeply into others, fully, and unconditionally. That is reflected in my work, and while there are plenty of others who produce content in the same areas, my life experiences, my identity, and what I bring to the table is unique.
- I remind myself that my identity is not in my qualifications, although my qualifications are relevant to my work. My identity is in Christ, and people that choose to confide in me, trust me, and hire me, are those who see me and believe in my ability and believe in what I share, as much as I do. They saw the environment my content and work was published in and believed that I was best fit.
- I reject biting off more than I can chew. I am certainly not everything, and my work and my content will not suit everyone. However, that does not mean that it is any less important to share my contribution.
- I remember my why. Why do I genuinely do what I do?... Not the fluffy answer people expect to hear, about passion and drive, etc... But the genuine reasons I do everything: 1) my faith 2) because I genuinely LOVE it 3) because of the joy and life it brings to my life and to the lives of others. I don't take photos for the money, I don't take photos because it's popular, I take photos because of the euphoric feeling I get when I see an image I absolutely love. I take photos because of the relationships my camera allows me to build with new people. I take photos because of the emotions behind the moments I capture. I don't post on Instagram aiming for a number of likes or comments, I post because what I put out documents my life––it shares my hardships and joys. I post stuff because I enjoy being connected to others and having a greater sense of virtual community.
If you're combatting "imposter syndrome," or struggling to feel motivated to invest deeply into your callings, your hobbies, career, or whatever it may be, here is my advice:
Speak truth over yourself and your work, don't buy into lies.
Remind yourself of where your identity truly lays
Watch your plate, don't pile on more than you can handle.
Ask yourself what your "why" is. Know why you push yourself, why you persevere, and what you love about what you do. Write it down, repeat it, work by it, live by it. Do your work authentically out of this drive.
I am proud of you. You were meant for a time such a this and made to do great things.
With love,
Andrea
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