Working through imposter syndrome: An interview with Hattie Collins
As creatives, we often feel driven by perfectionism. We often doubt our abilities, believing our achievements are rooted in luck rather than merit. This describes “Imposter Syndrome”, a psychological phenomenon rooted in self-doubt, a fear of failure and perfectionism. Whilst it can feel like an isolating experience, research confirms that up to 82% of professionals experience it. Imposter syndrome is rooted in self-doubt, a fear of failure and perfectionism. Whilst it can feel like an isolating experience, research confirms that up to 82% of professionals experience it.
Imposter Syndrome manifests in various ways; from sensitivity to small mistakes, burnout and a lack of self-confidence in one’s abilities. As an emerging creative, I experience it, especially approaching graduation where I struggle with confidence in my abilities. Even with evidence of my success, there are times when I am reluctant to apply for internships fearing I don’t have the necessary skills, limiting the opportunities I seek. I am constantly battling the belief that there are others more deserving.
Hattie Collins is an accomplished award-winning journalist, published author and radio broadcaster with over 20 years of experience in the music industry, Her work has appeared in The Sunday Times, Vogue, and i-D. She has collaborated with prestigious brands such as Google, Apple and BBC. Despite her extensive experience, Hattie has encountered Imposter Syndrome throughout her career.
Q. In the early stages of your career, when did you first encounter imposter syndrome, and how did it impact your work
As a music journalist, it took me a long time to feel confident in my writing without an educational background in English or Media. I was writing about Hip-Hop and R&B, a genre dominated by male writers, who underestimated female writers. It took me years before I pitched to newspaper outlets like the Guardian and the Sunday Times. I didn’t think these places were for people ‘like me’. Even now, as an untrained radio broadcaster, the imposter syndrome can still rear its head. However, I don’t let it hold me back.
Q. Has Imposter Syndrome ever affected your creativity? For example, did it affect your ability to take risks, your productivity or the quality of your work?
Absolutely. I sometimes hesitate to pitch to certain places or approach people for jobs. It can also create anxiety— especially in radio where you need to feel and be relaxed. Those voices of doubt will affect your heart rate, your voice, everything. Same with hosting an event.
Q. What are some of your proudest career moments since overcoming or managing Imposter Syndrome?
Ghostwriting a book (Tinie Tempah was my first one), media coaching artists, hosting a radio show (for Apple Music) are things I had never done or been trained to do or given guidance on. I just had to go with my instincts. While I do sometimes hold off from pitching/approaching people, I ultimately do it in the end and I’ll send that email/ make the phone call/ arrange that meeting.
Q.Do you still encounter imposter syndrome today, and how do you manage it differently
Absolutely. I’m quicker to push it aside and to go ahead with my ideas. I also find it helpful to team up with people, there’s a lot to be gained from exchanging ideas with other people. I’m very open to feedback and criticism – which happened with a piece I wrote recently. The editor asked me to rewrite something and I knew the editor was right. You’ve got to find the fine line between confidence in yourself and your work while being open to feedback and guidance from others.
Q. What advice would you give to anyone going through Imposter Syndrome right now?
I think just be gentle with yourself. Acknowledge it’s there and accept it and then put it aside and free yourself to enjoy what you’re doing and grow within that. Things like meditation and yoga can be very helpful. It encourages you to be calm, to feel centred and to put things in perspective. It’s about the process not the result. Let yourself enjoy work and enjoy life!
Hattie’s experience shows us that Imposter Syndrome can affect anyone and is irrespective of career level or achievements. While it may feel impossible to overcome, her story, underpinned by challenges and rewarding success, highlights how Imposter Syndrome can be tamed! Although it may feel as though you are experiencing it alone, you are not and with the right mindset and support, it can be defeated!