Artist Struggles & Doubts - Imposter Syndrome

Here's some doubts and struggles I go through as an artist. A lot of you can probably relate (if you're an artist too). Please share your experience with me when it comes to self-doubt and even imposter syndrome. I'd love to hear what it's like for you! Maybe we can help each other :)
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[@JelArts]

I hope you don't mind that the video is a slow sketching video. I thought it might be relaxing to watch a slower one to see my process more clearly. Also, make sure you watch to the end because I talk about changes with my channel! And let me know your experience with imposter syndrome or doubt.

[@AnastasiaR]

JelArts I study psychology and imposter syndrome is not in the DSM-5 (official book of abnormal disorders), but it is a common complaint in clinical therapy and there are ways of handling it that have been proven to help. One way everyone can do is to write about your feelings about it and then write about your accomplishments. This trains your brain to think of these real successes and remember them when you are feeling uncertain.

[@vivvy_0]

JelArts i feel like the paper i use or other material i use will be wasted anyway because i'm never gone be a good artist.. i don't feel to be worth enough to make art so i stop many times.. not the same but maybe a worse version of this imposter syndrome

[@jbig808]

Thank you Anastasia. That is a good way of getting me back into journaling also. Also adding things to my sketchbook on the backs of new sketch pages

[@jbig808]

I felt the same way starting out. I used napkins and $1 store sketchbooks to get over the waste of materials fear. THen I moved on up to better and better materials when I knew I didnt have a waste of paper

[@AnastasiaR]

Joam Bigelow Have you read the book The Artist's Way? It's all about that and they recommend journaling every morning to clear your head and let creativity flow through instead of the random (or negative) thoughts clogging your brain

[@Jazza]

I actually feel this all the time. I think it can be a good thing in that it drives you to work really hard to try and get to a better place, but it can be a really bad thing because you never really feel like you're in the right place, and if you ARE in a good place, you feel like you don't belong there, or like people judge you for being there. Really great video, love your art!

[@JelArts]

That's very true. It can be so hard to find a good balance between the two - wanting to get better but also acknowledging and accepting your accomplishments. Thank you so much!

[@haileybrown6619]

Draw with Jazza Hiiiiii Jaaaazzzaaaa and also I like your sharpie drawing thing Ok Bye

[@Micsma]

Maybe. But when you've been dealing with imposter syndrome for so long and then throw depression onto it... I just want to fade off man. I went onto artprompts and started a fire nymph but then how is can draw hands and aw this looks terrible why am I bothering I'll never be any kind of artist that I want to be... Cursed racing thoughts. Maybe yehve learned to draw out the positive of a negative thing..

[@flowerbug2924]

you probably have some form of anxiety. I don't think imposter syndrome is really just anxiety and being scared of judgment and failure. you should talk to someone about your depression and this anxiety. also no matter what your art has to improve so eventually you will be the artist you want to be. ive been working for 3 years on it now and im almost there :o) just keep working

[@CherryBOMB69697]

Draw with Jazza its so nice to see that your supporting other artists jazza. Your a talented person and you have a good mindset! I enjoy the amazing art you do!

[@hoa_mia]

When other people in my class looked at my art and said "Wow, It's so pretty". I were really shy to say thank you back Or when other say I'm good at drawing, I can't take those compliments even though I'm good at it. I feel I don't deserve all those compliments. I feel like I can fail at art anytime if I just take compliments and make people disappointed so I rarely show the others. That's what I feel when it comes to art

[@hoa_mia]

Alex A I just want to share. That's all

[@threeque]

Hoang This Minh Anh. When I go into a guitar store I feel like I don't deserve to be there. I have to remind myself that I may not be the best, but I have the right to try.

[@hoa_mia]

threeque Good to think positive like that 👍👍👍 I mean maybe not the best, at least you try and it good thing to keep going

[@JelArts]

That perfectly describes how I feel too! It can be hard to accept compliments sometimes.

[@twitchverbiage4638]

Same here my classmates in college always tell me how my drawings are good and how I should go attend art lectures and hell one guy even asked if I was doing fine art but most of the time I reply with I'm not good enough because honestly I don't feel like I am good enough to compare with other artists

[@XabioArts]

thanks for diagnosing both of us 😉 I love each one of your videos more and more as they come out

[@JelArts]

+Xabio Arts Haha no problem! It's nice to have a name for things. And thank you so much 😄

[@sincerelycinnamonroll5567]

Oh hey, I like your videos!

[@cicero2548]

Xabio Arts O.O

[@Karen-yn7px]

Ily

[@ale_xa6108]

Xabio x Jel ♥️

[@jessegerlach4338]

"Let me know if you've ever felt this way" I don't think I've ever NOT felt that way

[@burgerkingfootlettuce3826]

same

[@Raging-Lion]

Jesse Gerlach same

[@Lyridia_]

Same

[@xmarksthespot1372]

You too, guess I'll join the club.

[@LunetteDarke]

Ahhhh ;; I can relate to everything you just mentioned especially the bit about feeling like you dont belong in an art store

[@wolfie_3459]

Nia CloverCats same ;-;

[@JelArts]

Oh thank goodness. I'm so glad to hear that someone feels the same way!

[@gnomismocultural8547]

value doesn't exist, if you think about people on the present moment , what the present moment says about other peoples values ? IT SAYS EVERYONE HAVE NO MORE VALUE THAN EACH OTHER ,everyone have the same value ,because value is something that people construct ,GOLD HAVE NO VALUE ,it its just a construction of the mind,, the gold itself its just a substance , for the universe it haves no value or desqualifications , its just what it is ..try to see the world like this . you will not compare yourself to anyone ..never again.

[@aidan8587]

Nia CloverCats I feel the same way too; the part about the art store definitely hits home.

[@LlamaFreak]

This hit home for me. Everything you described, about the "feeling you're not good enough/talented" or self-conscious about your own artwork. Same with the "looking younger than you really are" thing xD, no one believes me when I say I'm in 11th grade lol, so I'm always self-conscious about that fact out in public.Thanks for making this video, glad to know other people experience too. :)

[@gyutokyo4330]

LlamaFreak I get you im in 8th and ppl are like you belong in 6th.

[@cosimalouapre5690]

Same here. I think i'm in 10th grade but i'm not sure because the american system is very confusing for me,( i'm french by the way). And when i go to art stores i feel really weird because i'm small etc... Even tho people usually think that i'm older than my actual age, i really don't feel that way. I'm always akward around strangers or just classmates who are commenting my doodles, like i feel the need to say thing like "that's just doodles, i can make better stuff" so yeah, glad to know i'm not alone either ^^ Also i'm sorry for any errors, i'm not really english fluent

[@Whoknkows1236]

LlamaFreak Yeah when I was a senior everyone thought I was like in 11th or 10th grade

[@aki_anyway]

Well I definitely feel like this. The fact is that I'm already 26 and I just recently changed my path in life and try to be an artist, I honestly don't see myself doing anything else in my life. The problem tho is that I'm quite old and I really lack experience. I just graduated in architecture and it was a really hard uni to finish but that's not what i want to do in life. So yeah I try my best to practice but all the time i feel like I'm never going to be a professional and I'm never going to be as good as the other artists around because I'm too old. So yeah, you're not alone really.

[@brandontanujaya7805]

Aki-Anyway i've never related to a comment so much

[@abandonedaccount747]

I'm 22 and feeling the same. But with enough time and dedication, you will improve. I've seen people on reddit post their progress after a year of drawing consistently, and the result is amazing. you can definitely get there.

[@AlexiaWay]

well I'm 27 and I understand that feeling. but I have also learned that art and Artyst shouldn't look at themselves by age. (even though it's hard) but I think there is more to it than that. Passion. Patients. Imagination. And self learning, or Experience but that's just me. ^^

[@aki_anyway]

APristineBanana Yup I know! I've been working hard for the past year, but it seems my progress is so slow...

[@brant-bi8563]

I also decided to take art seriously only after finishing college, and I know it may sound hard, but personally I only saw a big jump on my progress after the mark of 4 years drawing everyday. But you definetely shouldn`t think you are too old, a good chunk of the greatest animators for example are over 50-60 something, and they would still be hired anywhere (they still are). I met artists that were hired at the age of 15, I met artists that were hired in their 40s, this industry is all and only about skill, so it will always be there waiting for you doesnt matter at what age you reach your peak! So dont give up!

[@BlackBerryizHere264]

I, too, have felt this and still do. But as an artist who just graduated last May, let me tell you two things, yougin' lol: Every artist is their own worst critic, and once you stop giving a damn so much about negativity it will be SO VERY liberating. I'm only saying this because it took me nearly to the breaking point for me to appreciate my work. I don't know what you're majoring in, or what your confidence is like, but I'm sending good vibes. Short story version of my experience lol, I wanted to work for Pixar or the big, animation studios when I left school, so I felt like my work always had to be top notch. It was emotionally damaging. While my classmates complemented me on every critique, I felt I didn't deserve half of the praise because my assignments weren't finished often. I kept trying to achieve high quality animation, backgrounds, color, etc. all on my own, and if I didn't, I wasn't good enough. A wannabe animator. It was until junior year, when I was working on a passionate short. I spent so much time trying to please two of my classmates because they were the only ones not understanding my view. I felt that because they didn't get it, I have failed in the emotion I was trying to convey. When I finally accomplished what they were looking for, I was NOT happy with the end result. It was a watered down version of what I wanted it to be. To add insult to injury, one of those two classmates, who clearly didn't work as hard as the rest of the class, felt the need to continue telling me what I NEEDED to do. I was exhausted from late nights, on the verge of tears, and angry at myself. The bastard kept trying to throw in invalid opinions. It was "don't do this!" one year and then "Wait, do do this!" the next. Pissed, I said, "Fuck it, I'm doing whatever the HELL I want to, and it's gonna be finished." I found a subject I was in love with, and worked on it, taking honest critiques when I needed to and kept going. My senior film was my best, and I knew it was when I was finally accepted our school's film festivals. I accepted the compliments. I accepted me. TL:DR, what I'm trying to say is don't let your insecurity make you fall into the trap of seeking others' approval because you want to be great or accepted. You're already an artist, why the hell do you need others to validate your belonging lol. It might take a person or two trying to step up to your level the wrong way before you realize how fucking amazing you are. And if that happens, don't let it leave you bitter. You can still be humble without self-deprecation. That will only keep you from attempting great things. No one is perfect. Failure is a part of learning, you have to let yourself try no matter what!

[@AhmedAldoori]

I definitely feel the imposter syndrome, it's been a part of me for decades. Thanks for the video!

[@xuanxh]

Ahmed, as someone who follows your channel and also took your character design class a few years ago at CGMA (great class BTW, I learned a lot!), thank you saying you also suffer from imposter syndrome. When I look at your art, or other artists' work, I keep thinking "This is so good! I wish I could have their skills and level! That would solve so many of my issues, I'd stop doubting myself, I'd be unstoppable!" In my case, I've come to terms with the fact that self-doubt (and impostor syndrome, they're somewhat related) is here to stay, and is now my biggest enemy: it's not time, not my (past, current, future) skill level. And even artists that I admire are in the same boat! The hardest thing for me now is how to deal with it.

[@skribbly2378]

Everyone come to Shanghai. they have an entire market dedicated to art supplies. its beautiful

[@JelArts]

That does sound beautiful.

[@blankuser987]

Omg nice

[@starry_birdie9893]

every city has very good art stores. Pfft!

[@Balala_]

What is it called and what's its adress? I'm going there for a one day stay in december so I'd love to check it out!! Please!

[@chaaaargh]

I would if I weren't broke 😭

[@AnastasiaR]

My favorite illustrator is JAW Cooper. She's insanely talented but she has said “It’s okay to feel like your work isn’t living up to your expectations. It’s okay to feel the fear that you’re a big phony and everyone’s going to find out.” So clearly this feeling never really goes away. I relate to this so much. The feeling kept me from making art for a few years but now I'm much better at handling it and I even started an art channel. I haven't done a tutorial yet even though I have tons of ideas for them because I'm like well I'm not an expert I have no right.

[@what.thehecc4152]

This is exactly how I felt when I won that scholarship! I was getting showered with compliments by everyone when they told me and I just started making excuses like 'but I did terribly on this test' and 'I had no idea what half the questions meant!' I started crying because I always told myself that I was going to fail and that everyone is smarter than me. Months later, I still believe that it was just luck and that they must have made a mistake. But honestly though, I hate how unoriginal and badly written that story I wrote for the school was. This is the first time I've ever said anything about this so sorry if I sound rambly. I also experience this with art but not as much, though I do feel upset when people compare their art to mine and say I'm better when, in most cases, I'm not

[@anthonykayn7154]

I am currently experiencing anxiety and it really kept me away from the things I love (Writing, Drawing etc). The syndrome that you mentioned it reminds me of a different form of anxiety, cause I have experienced it. Don't let it took you down tho. I also discovered that the more you do the things you love, the more you are feeling comfortable with what you are doing. School is giving me a fast heartbeat, but with a pen and a blank piece of paper I try to escape. I don't know if you can relate.

[@reltna752]

i love u so much, tbh i just found u and i suck at drawing but ur inspring me to draw alot more :^) keep up the good work

[@0skele272]

reltna YOUR ART IS AMAZING YOU WONDERFUL PIECE OF HUMAN BEING

[@animateflicken9993]

reltna your jel arts are my drawing wiff waffles and leslielu marie

[@puddingj9406]

Lavendertowne has a lot of advice for cartoons so if you want to check her videos out go on ahead!

[@para_luhar9396]

reltna i subbed to u 87

[@masonheitner8410]

a Jones YES!!

[@DJxTriKz]

I was hoping impostor syndrome was feeling like all your work is just inspiration from other art pieces and you have touches of everyone else's work in your own. And 5% of it is yours. I can't get over that feeling.

[@milkduds9148]

Delivery god Yato, at your service! But that's how everyone develops in art. Its largely unconscious, so unless you go blind, you will always take bits and pieces from other art you see

[@nachtkralle7281]

Delivery god Yato, at your service! Yeah, I feel that way, too. It's like I was just copying others. I'm not even sure, if I'm "allowed" to answer, because my profile picture is obviously not original, it's Pokémon and I was inspired by someone else, who did a similar drawing. So that one isn't even my own idea, just like 5%, because I did it a little different. Even, when I'm drawing something and use a refernce which is not a photo, but more kind of an illustration (I once searched for illustrations of fruit e.g.) I feel like I'm just copying. When I draw more abstract stuff, I feel like it's not good enough, because everybody is able to draw some shapes and just go wild with colours. Well, I'm going to post it anyways, but I hope you get how I feel :3

[@gusdontbe_9930]

same

[@SweetPigment]

Oh my Goodness I relate to this more than I can describe! More in education than anything, I am so glad you shared this :)

[@navneetjouhal8993]

Wow, so far this seems like my thoughts summarised. I thought this was how people normally think or because I have very high expectations. I don't have any social medias, or if I do, they're not used.

[@navneetjouhal8993]

apparently, there are five types: Perfectionist (High expectations) Superperson? (Cover-up even though they feel like they are lower) Natural Genious (Doesn't believe they earned success) Individualist (Doesn't ask for help) Expert (Feels unqualified if they don't meet all qualifications)

[@sherrycous]

I know exactly what you mean and how you feel. I am no artist, but I won an" employee of the year" thing last year as a fellow. After they gave me the prize, I asked one person who was on the committee:" Am I the only candidate?" Becuase I thought that is the ONLY reason that I got it instead of someone else. She looked at me like:" Of course, there are other candidates." Then after a few days, I saw a very thin envelope on my desk, my first thought was:" Is that termination letter, am I fired?" Yeah, because firing the person, you just selected as employee of the year totally makes sense in my mind.

[@impossibledreams2467]

Holy smokes, I didn't know that imposter syndrome exexisted... Cause it definately applies to me but I thought thats just me being weird... especially that feeling of somehow not having a right of being somewhere, or even doing something...which is obviously completly not rational and doesn't make any sense at all.... thing is, even with this comment I somehow feel unquallified for wrighting/posting it because there are like 100 other people who have already poseted comments and probably have also already expressed what I wanted to say anyway; so who am I to write this one then? And obviously thats complete bullshit and it shouldn't be that I am wasting my thoughts on.... But I think you were right when you said that in the end most people don't give a shit about you being at the art store or whereever for that matter ... So I'm guessing the best thing to do for people like you and me who have this problem is to acknowledge it and then to try and overcome it by continuing to post online, go to art stores and just not letting the feeling take over. And yet here I am hovering over the post button and thinking, dude no one is gonna waste their time reeding this novel you just wrote, you not even a propper artist... But you know what fuck that I'm gonna post it any way! also if there is someone who wants to talk about this, I'm just gonna call it aritsts fear for now, feel free to drop me line! :) Also I you have read the entire think and have gotten to this point: thank you very much I really appreciate it!

[@LeeLemon008]

This just reminded me of being in first year at uni, and whenever I sat in the kitchen in the apartment I felt like I needed an excuse to be there xD It sounds so stupid...

[@samfisher3575]

I talked to my therapist about my own personal fear of positive feedback. Here are 3 things you can do to help with that: 1) make 2 lists. 1 list will be a list of your hobbies/interests. This can range from anything between art, music, shows/movies, and even what kind of clothes you like to wear, as well as all the animals you have in your life (not just your own pets) and what you like to do with your friends. The second list will be for things you like about yourself. Make these lists in intervals of 5 different things, and then go into detail on each one until you fill a page. Not only will this help you with self-assertion and not being so hard on yourself, but it will help you a lot with step 2. 2) filter your social media. Personally, I find that not filtering your social media can leave you open for self doubt because you are surrounding yourself with things that you don't like and it turns you into a cynic. This will follow you everywhere you go. My advice would be to stay off Facebook because it's not possible to filter out what you don't like. Instead, use apps such as Instagram, Pinterest, and Tumblr. Only follow topics/people who you whole heartedly care about and you will feel a weight lift off of your chest. 3) when someone compliments your work, instead of saying "thank you," say "thank you for liking my work." It may seem awkward, but repeating back what they complimented you on will help your brain get better at taking those praises into consideration and you will feel your confidence build up! This doesn't just apply to your art. If you're wearing a new shirt that day, and someone says, "I like your shirt," reply with, "thank you for liking my shirt!" It really helps me and I hope it can do the same for you!

[@ciaracromie4958]

I also have this problem. Thanks for informing me what this feeling is called.

[@boopityboy5441]

I didn't really know I had imposter syndrome until u actually started to point out a few things imposters feel, like I still don't feel like I'm qualified to call myself an artist even after 3 years of having my own side buisness with returning clients who like my work. I feel like I'm not worth the praise I get.

[@brundlesara]

Omg i finally find a name for what i feel everytime i draw something! Thank you, i can start to fight against this!

[@0skele272]

Celaeno Art same

[@karina.a9466]

Yeah I feel like an imposter alot like if am using certain expensive supplies to do art with i feel like oh I shouldn't be using this because am not a so called artist yet , so it's really weird how that happens to me ,and yeah I understand how your feeling

[@godherself5148]

wow, I can totally relate! Sometimes my friends go through my sketchbooks and compliment me on certain things, and a lot of those comments I don't feel I deserve. Thank you for sharing, I never new it was an actual thing!

[@PrincessInvaderJai]

I feel like this sometimes.... Thanks for sharing this! You're right! In reality, we don't realize how talented we truly are!

[@lukassjogren7910]

My mom keeps forcing me to post my "art" on instagram, even though I've told her that every single thing I put up gives me so much anxiety

[@greymatter33]

Thank you for this, I've never heard of this. I'm a 39 year old lifetime artist and I am now receiving some praise and opportunity for my art, but I keep waiting for them to find out I am a nobody. This helps me feel less alone, thanks for posting this, seriously, THANK YOU!!!

[@JelArts]

+greymatter51 You are so welcome! It can feel so great to have a term for your feelings sometimes 😊

[@strooooble]

Yeah. I feel like this a lot. Maybe not all the time, but very often. People tell me I am so talented and gifted and whatnot, and I'm just standing there looking at my pieces, feeling like a fraud because really, I can see all the mistakes I made, etc. Taking compliments as an artists was always difficult for me. (But I am like that in general, too, not just when it comes to art.) So no, you're not the only one. Although, I love going into art stores, it's just too exciting and I then quickly forget that there are other artists around and I don't feel nervous, I get way too happy seeing all the supplies and colours. :D

[@artjaxson3]

Thank you for being vulnerable, speaking on a subject that I can relate to, and creating a great piece of artwork, all simultaneously!

[@Kurhoemix]

Girl your art is awesome, your tutorials have helped me so much! But it's good to hear that other people feel this struggle too! I'm always extremely hesitant to call myself an artist because I went to college for something else, so I think I'll always call myself an amateur no matter how good I may get because of it. Good luck dealing with your imposter syndrome and like you said just keep telling yourself you deserve everything you have, because you do!!

[@sheoakaflett9298]

Ive been meaning to say your art is so lovable and beautiful. I understand as much as possible from a viewer/artist's perspective what this is like. Remember not one of your videos fails to inspire me ❤

[@xipherzen]

I completely understand this paranoia as part of my own pile of anxieties in life. There's always that constant fear, and I think the slow sketch video really kinda helps represent (the way you keep going back and forth with some of the lines and the expression on her face). I popped over due to the title and it's nice to know that there's others struggling with the same feelings. I'm a student in video game design and single parent at the age of 25 just starting to realize that artistry is what I want to do, and what you described is exactly the kind of situation/thoughts that cause a great deal of struggle with trying to be an artist. So thanks for this video :)

[@tarinvernon7007]

I can relate. I feel like that at work and online. Altough I DO get called out by one person at work sometimes. People keep saying that he does that to everyone and not to worry about it but its hard to not take it personaly. Sometimes Im just waiting for the day I get fired I guess. Being the only girl in the group doesnt help either. As for the store thing. Theres this one tiny art store I like going to but since I know the owner is an artist herself I feel ashamed when I buy stuff there.

[@Eryn404_VA]

You captured the emotions so well, I 'felt' it. The turn around at the end really hit me. I've been a fan...well, lurker for some time. The moment about being unable to accept praise without a (un)healthy dose of self-criticism is so familiar. You're definitely not alone there. But it's artist KZbinrs like you that keep my, and many others' I'm sure, enthusiasm for art alive. So, thank you.

[@dorkchops]

I recently stopped drawing because I felt my drawings were not really art, and tbh I still feel that way, and being in high school in an age where perfection is a trend doesn't help😧. The sad thing for me is that I used to love drawing and art but as I got older and started to care about perfection and other people's thoughts, I just slowly lost my motivation and confidence. I drove compliments away because I figured that people were just trying to sugarcoat my lack of skill and not because the drawings were actually nice. Watching art tutorials and videos meant to be inspiring kinda made me feel worst because I knew that I could not even begin create some of the things they did. So I stopped making original stuff and started copying other art and photography, which kinda made me lose my imagination in a way. People used ask to see my "artwork" and called me an artist even after I told them I was not. I'm trying to loosen up and accept the imperfections in my drawings, but it may be a while before I actually feel like an artist again...

[@andreagarciaboldoba4126]

Thank you for talk about this, I've never heard of this syndrome before and it really defines how I feel about creating art, especially because I'm learning, and is nice to know that other people feel the same way I do, that I'm not the only one and I'm understood. I also feel like you when I'm in art stores, specially if the employers are looking at me because I often take my time to look everything and to compare the things that I'm gonna buy, so it makes me nervous when employers ask me if I need help searching something, I feel like they think I'm not good enough for being there and that's why I need help. Btw, I think that you're a really amazing artist, I appreciate your art so much and I really love all your videos so it's weird for me to assume that you feel the same way I do because honestly I think you shouldn't, you're so amazing😊💕

[@RentingSpam]

Story of my life! I literally feel this way all the time. I actually went into an art store the other day and I was looking at pens and I was all like "What if these people are judging me? Does it seem like I know what kind of pens I'm looking for? What if I'm doing this all wrong and they know?" The struggle is so real.

[@sincerelycinnamonroll5567]

Thank you for making this video! You have described everything that I feel about my art

[@AlexA-jt3dx]

Holy crap I have this I'm an artist but I've never been into an art store Because I have this at such a high degree that I don't want to go out in public, I feel out of place everywhere I'm also a perfectionist, I always think that what I make is not enough so I end up drawing every single day without stopping and when I see something greater I try to reach that but fail first try and feel bad

[@0skele272]

Alex A i so know how you feel

[@NotASpyReally]

Never stop doing what you love to do :D

[@MeowMeowKapow]

I think we all feel like this at some point, until one day you either stop caring, or you suddenly realize that you actually believe in yourself. For me, the turning point was me losing my job as an art teacher and not being able to find any other job. As a result, I started amping up my personal art production to help deal with the stress....but I made so much artwork that I started forgetting about what I'd already made. I was looking through a stack of drawings to find a specific one and was shocked and delighted by a bunch that I didn't remember, and actually thought to myself "wow, I really like this!" Which, about a week later, someone purchased one of my silly little paintings that was just sort of practice because they loved it.... and it felt good. So I'm an artist, now. Amped up my insta posting, started my KZbin channel, reopened my Etsy, and chose to believe in myself. It's still a little weird and I feel like I have to justify to people why I'm doing this instead of getting a "real" job. I'm still a little stuck in feeing like this is a hobby and not my career, but....I'm doing my best to really let it sink in.

[@ocarinaofs4ria]

Damn... this video hit so hard, I actually cried a little while watching. It described me in such a deep level. I just realised how often I feel like this, not only in the art field, but almost ALL the other fields in life. You're not crazy and not alone!! Thanks so much for speaking up about this topic :')

[@Gordon_draws]

You're definitely not the only one. I have a lot of those fears as well! Great video,thanks!

[@artiikii8473]

I feel like when I first started getting 'confident' that I wanted to do art, I had this kind of 'am I allowed to try this with my skill level?' feeling and would get awkward when someone /did/ tell me I was good at drawing, especially in my art classes, when I knew a couple students were MUCH better than me. One year (it was either grade 10 or 11?), I had this kid who would just sit and watch me draw. He always said he liked watching me draw, and even now he still compliments me on everything, and even just the most random things that I drew (like once he told me 'this might sound weird but I really like the way you draw ears' and I still don't get it since my ears aren't that special) And I was always thinking 'Why would you watch someone like me draw?' though that's essentially what I've been trying to do lately is make speed paints where...people watch me draw. As I progress with my art and see my own improvement, though, I've realized that maybe I am 'allowed' to do this and no one thinks I'm a faker. As for the art store thing, I worked at an art store for a bit and even then I was like 'it feels so weird to be in here'. Then again I was part of the early morning crew that cleaned up the place before it opened, restocked shelves, and put up new stuff, so it was weird just being in an empty store itself. But my mom still works at the same art store and sometimes, even though I love looking at art supplies, I think 'what do I need to do at an art store?' Yeah, totally not like I'm an artist. Even if my main trade is digital. Idk if I can call any of this 'imposter syndrome' but it does sound similar.

[@StrawberryNova]

This is honestly really relatable. Like the whole thing. It can feel so, so much like people are judging or comparing you to other people and it can make you second guess yourself. It's really daunting sometimes, but I think sometimes it can drive a person to try and get better. I had issues with the art store bit just the other day, actually, buying painting supplies. Getting stuff to try something new (I've never painted before) can exacerbate the feeling, and it actually left me pacing the paints and brushes aisle for a good ten to fifteen minutes despite struggling with my arms full of stuff, just feeling like people were judging me and what I bought. Your videos are really good! This was a great one, good talk on the subject!

[@ashya6186]

I'm so happy to finnally know that the feeling I always had about me and my art have a name and other people is fighting the same problem. I always felt like I'm so fucked in my brain to be the only one with such a self-destructive attitude. I'm a qualified graphic designer, and eaven after school, exams and short work experiences in design studios I still feel i dont belong to this job. This imposter syndrome put me so down at the point that I'm often not able to work. I'm a freelance and my boyfriend, which believe in me a lot, spread the voice about me being a designer and i got job from it. But still I'm not able to deliver in short times, eaven if the job is done. I stop myself from working cause so scared about people thinking I'm not good in my job. Every time that somebody tell me that my work looks great, I think that they tell me this just cause they are pity for me. I'm also so embarassed to share my works with other designers. I dont really want them to see me as a mediocre designer, or worst, I dont want them to think im just a kid trying to design without knowing what I'm doing. I'm also conviced that my clients have the feeling to waist ther money working with me. Now my family wanted to give me as a present a screen tablet (it will arrive in 1 week and im so excited!), cause they know i love to paint more than design, and this makes me finally wanting to create and express myself through digital art. But the way is still long and I will have to work hard, but somehow i feel i can do this. So maybe this syndrome developed in such a sick way just cause i wasn't doing what i really love. Or maybe it will come out again when i will realize that i need to improve and excersise a lot to have a well done piece of digital art with my signature on it. ...I want to congratulate with who has managed to read all this bad english bible, I guess i needed to take out all this also to realize that it's a reality and change is possible! ^^ Thank you JelArts for this video and for sharing tips and tricks. I'm a new follower! P.S. I'm a fan of your art too! :*

[@strawburriemilk9434]

i'm so glad you made a video about this omg, i've always felt rly lost and confused abt it i feel the same way about art, and actually about my schoolwork ?? which i think is surprising bc it's not actually like a "creator thing" but yanno

[@ciaracromie4958]

I can relate to everything you said. Well except the looking younger thing. I actually look older. I'm 13 but everyone that I've asked says that I have to be at least 15,16 or sometimes even 17 and I also act alot more mature than most people my age. So I always feel that since people have higher expections for me and that if I don't meet those expectations I'll be an outcast or seen as 'not worth it'.

[@Chellulu]

I can relate to this so much! I'm actually starting my second year in college and I now started studying Game Art & Animations. My first year was more like experiencing what I wanted to choose so I didn't feel thát much pressure but I do now. Whenever someone compliments my art I always feel awkward and I feel the need to point at my friends like "Oh, ah but look at their art! It's so much better! You should compliment them, not me." It's even worse because I'm a perfectionist. So getting compliments for little sketches is extra hard. Aaahh sorry I'm rambling. Aaaanyway, nice video! It was nice to hear someone explain why I (and others) feel this way. Keep up the good work! x

[@Jarjarvideos]

If you're insecure about your art then I'm really proud of you for keeping up with KZbin and other public platforms so we'll :) You've earned all that you have achieved

[@JelArts]

+Jarjarvideos That means a lot to me, I really appreciate it! I kind of developed a "I don't care as much" attitude when it comes to KZbin, but some days I can be so critical of myself and what I post. It's a rollercoaster 😅

[@syntaxfailure5233]

I'm a very young artist (I'm not even 14) so everyone treats me like I don't know what I'm doing. I used to like my art, but now all I think is that it could be better. I always look forward to improving, but I get weird looks when I'm in art stores.

[@crummihunni8335]

CaramelPop age doesnt mean anything to me. Im only fifteen, but just because youre "young" doesnt mean you dont know what you are doing. If youve put the time and research or the practice into your occupation/art then you do what you do. Its your specialty, dont let strangers think they know better inside of your head when really they dont. I personally am a critique to my own art as well, which i think is a great tool as an artist to have since you can always work on improvement. But i also think theres a difference between self-criticism and being negative. Always think "i could work on that" instead of "the persons arm looks terrible..." to me personally there is no measure of who is better at art, always try your hardest. You have your role models, and you are others role model. Be positive, practice and dont let others bring you down! I havent seen your art but i bet it looks absolutely stunning:) keep up the good work

[@syntaxfailure5233]

Lauren Mayer Thankyou so much for that! You really helped me.

[@heyitstat4227]

i get weird looks when i walk into art stores as well and i'm 18, (i know im so old..jk not really) and its great that you want to learn more about art. it's very rare nowadays. feeling like everyone tells you that you don't know what you're doing maybe try (if you're comfortable) asking them if they do and if they do ask them the question why? But most importantly don't let others get in the way of the things you love.

[@syntaxfailure5233]

Tatiana Atsoccar Thanks so as much ❤️❤️❤️ but the thing is the medium I prefer is Markers, so I spend a lot on copics, prismacolors, etc. people say I'm just waisting money, but I work ( excluding special occasions) for that money and I choose what i spend it on, but I can't help but think about someone else who could have bought the marker I had and made something much more beautiful than I ever could.

[@heyitstat4227]

my friends little sister is about 10/11 yrs old and she uses copics as well, and everyone needs to start somewhere with a medium and yours just happened to be markers. The fact that you worked hard for those supplies you should be proud because copics and prismacolours are bloody damn expensive.

[@hoan6909]

Holy.. I'm a few minutes in and I'm already relating to everrything. I always feel bad when people call my stuff "Art" or tell me that I'm good at something, because I think I am clearly not good and things that I do shouldn't be refered to as "Art" and that my stuff looks not that good in comparison to the version in my head. And when they tell me I should stop thinking that I'm telling them that it was luck or try to explain to them what's wrong about my work.. I've never thought about that like this. Thank you for making the video, now I'm having an existential crisis. It's pretty scary thinking about how everything you just said made me uncomfortable, because I relate so much. (really, thanks for the video and great work!)

[@Saviroosje2]

Oh my that is so me... When someone compliments my work, I just don't know what to say. I make up excuses like "Oh really? Naah it isn't that great, drew it in 15 minutes" etc... Thank you for this video Jel, this was really interesting!! Keep up the fantastic work!

[@nomadbynature798]

Wow... this is the best explanation of Imposter Syndrome I have ever heard. Thank you for sharing this. I think it gets easier the older you get. I’m 31 and I still experience this to a degree, but nowhere near the extent I experienced Imposter Syndrome 10 or 15 years ago. I used to feel the exact same way in Guitar Center or other music stores as you described in the art stores. I hope you’re feelings and confidence around and that have improved because you are an AMAZING artist!!! Hope life is treating you well! ✌🏻🍻

[@oliwri]

ohh I feel the same and not only about drawing, but in almost every single aspect of my life. thank you for sharing this, I'll look into it.

[@theartdump3257]

I have never entered an actual art store for these exact reasons, I've only ever entered the Michael's craft store without feeling out of place when buying art supplies. Feels nice to know I'm not alone with this kind of stuff. 💚

[@asa-pi]

That's very interesting. I haven't personally experienced feeling uncomfortable being in an art store, but I can totally understand where you are coming from. The whole "unable to take a complement" thing, THAT, I completely understand. I had an oil painting teacher who tried to complement my painting, but I kept pointing out the mistakes and he told me to just take the complement. People take the time to notice your work and trying to "prove them wrong" only undermines their kind gesture. He said even if you don't feel worthy of the complement, just say "thank you" and leave it at that. The world needs more confident artists, so be confident in your work.

[@myrkflinn4331]

OMG finally someone who talks about this! Amazing explanation cos I keep finding those artists around lately and it's sad!Please, be happy of your work... Me, you, everyone, please be happy for once about what you established! You can always improve and thrive for more, but have some breaks at times! You're after all a human. And this comes from a very negative person with chronic PTSD! So please, don't think that way, you are worth the time you are given on this planet to live! Enjoy that time!

[@brodika]

Two days before I watched this video, I felt the exact same way. The friend I was with thought I was crazy... but it's nice that it's not just me. I love all the videos on this channel. Thanks for continuing to make them.

[@jenniefiedler9854]

I think most people who put themselves out there feel this way. When I had a chair in a salon I often felt like a fraud. Why would anyone want ME to do their hair?? It's normal, especially when we care about what we produce. Just remember, people respond to how art makes them feel. I like your art very much and I enjoy watching you make it on your channel. I'm 57 and just getting started in character illustration and it's a lifelong dream coming true. At this point I don't think I care so much about other's opinions, only that I'm getting to do it at last. Keep up the wonderful work you are doing! 😊

[@lunaelise3765]

Hi, firstly, I love the sketch in this video. I love their expressions. I'm an animation student and being in a cohort full of skilled artists, I relate to this wholeheartedly! I'm glad you thought of a good name for it, "Imposter Syndrome". I do have an irrational fear that people will clock me for things like using references and using pen stabilizer in paint tool sai or even simple things like drawing inspiration from other styles. It's very much a thing that happens in your head. I've heard people talk shit about styles that are too Disney, too Tumblr, too Anime etc. Some of those people even being my friends but they never say things about my own art but thoughts of people conspiring behind your back and saying I'm not a real artist. It even went as far as to even halt my process on all my projects for a good year, out of fear that my paintings were "too anime" or "too disney". The best way I've dealt with it is just to kinda take away your feeling of prestige for being an artist; to try and think of it as just any other mundane job. Of course listening to constructive criticism is still good but really, it just takes a bit of getting used to to sort out what criticism is helpful to you and what isn't. Sorry for the long post!

[@noelle_drew6934]

damn. it feels so relieving that there's a term for this! thank you very much! you're not alone in this!

[@fyisadeghi]

Wow, this is exactly how I feel on a daily basis. I could not put a word to that myself, but this definitely described it. I fear that if I don't mold myself to what people want to see I won't be accepted. Perfection is key to me, that way nobody will call me out on a mistake I made. Thank you for making this, it really opened my eyes.

[@GaellDragons]

Oh my gosh thank you sooo much for making this video! I tought I was the only one to feel this way about my art, it is really good to know that other artists feel like that too. I can really relate to everything you said, especially about not accepting compliments and also not feeling in the right place into art stores.

[@Alex-yy3sk]

I honestly understand your pain. Whenever I go into any store or just anywhere when I'm not with someone it makes me shy, unconfident, and just awkward. I know that no-one cares, but it still bugs me. Whenever I go out in public, I hear a little voice in my head. "Don't mess up, Don't mess up, don't mess up," And I keep hearing it. And it's VERY discouraging when something stupid gets featured or popular, but my 100 drawing art dump gets 5 likes. It makes me feel like I'm worthless, and that no-one cares about me if I was dead. I have tried to kill myself 2 times already, almost three. I just don't feel like myself.

[@alantecuapetla4251]

Thank you, for showing me I am not the only one feeling like this, thinking of inferiority on myself and building a mental wall of not being able to reach those who I admire, cheers and keep doing your amazing work.

[@JelArts]

Thank you! It's also great for me to know that so many others experience this too :)

[@BabySquirrelBeading]

Interesting topic. I've always wanted to be an artist but opted for a secure profession (nursing). Now that I'm am retired I decided to jump in. KZbin video's from artist like you has accelerated my progress. When I stumbled on colour pencil pet portraits I was blown away at how skilled I was at it. Clearly all the daily practice I did contributed. My fear now is that the skill will vanish as magically as it appeared. I know this is ridiculous. I've been doing one pet portrait after another without a break. I'm afraid to loose the momentum. I also tend to jump from one thing to the next. That's my imposter syndrome.

[@missoringasm7144]

Ah yes. I feel like this too. It applies to me in different ways, like I'm an author, artist and I play guitar and violin and even thought I get many compliments on my skill in all of these things I just can't take them. I always thing I'm not that good and can pick out everything wrong with whatever I'm doing, be it a short story, a pice of music or a drawing. I find it hard to take compliments in general. I'm always looking for a change in environment because I feel like I'm never in the right place, like I don't belong. I'm always terrified of what people think of me and such. Etcetera etcetera. I'll have to look into this Imposter Syndrome thing more.

[@sadkitchenware7723]

I too have this when going into art stores. I feel like people and the employers are 'able to tell' I'm not a real artist (even tho that's not really true?) But why I clicked on this video is bc I saw the title and it felt like yeh this might be it... I've recently been getting into digital art and so is one of my friends. She's sent me some of her work that was already really good and also gave me the link to a few photosop brushes. But for some reason I feel like I'm not alowed to use any kind of special brushes. It's like I must do everything myself and using brushed to blen or whatever feels like I'm cheating. And I'm not really doing it myself. Even brushes for lineart. Idk if this is a part of the imposter syndrome but the title immediately reminded me of this. I also find it hard to take compliments on my art. I'm trying to work on it tho (bc indeed I feel like when I brush it off, people get annoyed or may think I'm fishing for even more compliments) I also thought about making an instagram for my art/oc's but I feel like my friends will think it's not actually good or that it is even art at all... Sorry for the letter! I just wanted to know if these are part of the imposter syndrome as well :l

[@kyrabythesea]

omg i feel the exact same way! i've been wanting to post my art on instagram or tumblr for the past couple of years but i always hold my self back, same with my digital art. I get worried about what the final outcome is going to be and just accept that "digital art isn't for me," when i know deep down if i practice enough i can get better?? i've had my tablet for almost a year now and i've hardly used it, when i was planning on purchasing one i told myself that i would use it all the time, but now it's a pain to take it out ://

[@prsl-qy5mt]

This video just opened my eyes. Not only do i feel like an imposter when i go into art stores. I also feel like one whenever i go to a grocery store, a social gathering, hell even when I am part of a fandom because I never feel like I deserve to be or belong there. I'm really reserved because I oftentimes feel like anything I say can allow someone to expose me for something. I definetely need to work on that thank you so much for opening my eyes

[@taylorgregory7040]

Same exact feeling. I am not very good at drawing and this feeling of being absolutely worthless actually crippled me. I didnt pick up a pencil fo almost 9 months. But i had also been told that my drawings were good but overheard those same people saying that they were terrible. But i am still trying. Im not giving up because of some bad anxiety and comments. Thank you for posting this and for sharing your art and wisdom!

[@Gobi_Ness]

Nope, you are definitely not alone. I have this problem all the time with my art work . But keep on pushing forward with your art, and things will get better . One thing that helps me is to drow just for my self just drow for my self . And it's been helping me get bolder.

[@ginasartcorner5686]

Such cute sketches! Also I know the feelings you talk. Sometimes I´m also like thanking the person that gives me a compliment and at the same time saying that something is off with the drawing and such :D

[@xuanxh]

I know this is an old video, but thank you for doing it. I'm not sure if my issue could fully fall into the "impostor syndrome" category, but I tend to think that the few paintings I am really proud of are a result of blind luck, almost like an "accident", something that wasn't supposed to happen. I do not finish most of my drawings and paintings. I abandon most of them. In fact, I am so afraid of failure that overcoming the fear of the white page is a real struggle that has been following me for 10 years: I doubt and criticize almost everything single one of my pen strokes.

[@marhasy]

That is so true! I'm almost 30 and this feeling is still there. Sometimes I'm afraid to upload my drawings, one time I wanted to decline a good job offer just because "you know, you need a trained artist to make this, not me" :/ Compliments from strangers is the best solution for me. Like, they are strangers, they don't care about my feelings, they will say my art is bad or stolen if they think so.

[@pleasedontlookatme5883]

This hit home really hard I never accept compliments on anything and even now I don't feel like I'm good at anything. I felt so out of place and felt like I wasn't a real artist. So much so that I actually quit doing art and told my self I could never be an artist. I've started to draw again but I still brush it off as just a hobby nothing I could ever be good enough to make a living out of. I'm so scared that I'm not worthy of even calling myself an artist. I sometimes feel bad even watching artist on KZbin like I'm somehow not good enough to even see art I think is amazing. This video made me cry I can never explain how much it meant.

[@littlenobody9999]

I have got into drawing and art about three years ago (I'm thirteen right now ^-^), and I am aware that this is way less than other artists. As a kid, I was kind of confident in my art since I accepted compliments and believed them, kid thoughts and stuff. Anyways, as I grew older, my confidence has slowly faded. I became afraid of posting my art on Instagram, Snapchat and even drawing Amino. When entering an art shop, I feel really insecure, I can't show my art to others and try avoiding people as much as I can so I don't show my drawings. I just get in, get my stuff, and run out like nothing just happened. I never feel like I deserve the so called "talent" that my family and friends talk about. What made me feel more insecure was my art teacher and some older artists in either my school or outside, seeing that they always correct my mistakes in anatomy and tell me that my art isn't really that impressive. So I started not keeping my art, just doodling stuff and throwing it in the bin. Then I started trying to help myself, watching inspirational art videos, getting advice from greater artists and so on. I became a little confident in my art, posting it on some places, showing it to a few people, and starting to draw more with zero care if someone thought it was horrible since it was a hobby of mine. This is where I started getting the hang of drawing, starting to slowly improve and become happy with what I draw. Now I'm aware that this is a gift from God, a thing I should appreciate and be thankful for, not underestimate. So I started looking forward for improvement and drawing more often! :) Also, just wanted to mention a few things that motivate me to draw more: -Young artist's drawings. Yes, it might seem a bit weird or strange for some people, but even though I'm young as well, that doesn't stop me from getting inspired by these things. I always like looking through there art, slowly noticing the small details and improvement that happened as the time went by. Heck, I even let my younger artist cousins draw me random messed up stuff. It always makes me think that there's a long way ahead of me as a young artist, and that I can improve as well if I really will to do so. -Random objects around me. Sometimes while cleaning my bedroom, drinking tea or even just blankly staring at my hand, I just suddenly want to draw them out of boredom, it fires up the baby artist inside of me and even makes me draw more unrelated stuff. It starts from drawing the poky on the table to suddenly drawing my OCs and other characters and items. -Finally, drawing videos. I might be looking in Ilya's amazing Instagram account filled with wonderful drawings and see a little wip drawing video that they posted. I just normally watch it like a human being, then start to watch even more of them, until finally giving up and bringing my pencil and sketchbook to draw. I don't kniw why, but it really motivates me to draw. -Anime, AnImE, ANIME! I'm a giant fan of Anime, as you can see! *INTENSE BINGE WATCHING IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT INTENSIFIES--* Anyways,, watching Anime really makes me want to get up and scribble anything, anywhere. Especially old ongoing serieses, such as Naruto. I always get motivated after seeing Masashi Kishimoto's improvement in drawing, from Naruto to Naruto Shippuden. He really improved, and that makes me look forward even more for improving! Lol thank you for reading this whole thing if you actually did XD

[@birb2044]

I learned to take compliments so people stop insisting on the compliment even though i don't honestly believe them buuuut I LOVE YOUR ART! it's such a lovely style and video :D

[@ARCHIVEgeminope]

Oh boy if that ain't me... But seriously I really do have this. Especially since I go to an arts high school. I have and always been easily intimidated in my arts and academics, despite being a 4.0 student. I always think that when people say they like my art or say I'm smart I feel like they are giving me pity or something like I don't truly deserve it and they are just trying to be nice. I think it's mostly because my family really doesn't want me to go in the arts in college and my mom has at least twice discounted my art ability like saying that "You are not an artist" or "all you draw is Pokemon/Anime/Cartoons/.etc. (which holds some truth). But now I try to take compliments and criticism to improve my art and get better to prove why I'm in that school and show that I could have a chance, regardless of intimidation, self-pity, imposter syndrome, and stress.

[@rayraygottago]

I myself am in the air force, though ever since my sophomore year in high school (i'm 27 now) i've always wanted to do character art and design. I've never felt like I practiced enough nor have much to show, but people have always told me it looked good, even though I could see every flaw in anything i've done. Lately, after getting a display tablet, i've been getting myself to just draw, to make myself better at it. I don't have much time unfortunately to do so, since my job, but i have seen myself improving quite a bit. I've been more receptive to positive reactions to my work, and it really has helped me keep moving forward, instead of wallowing in my self doubt, thinking I wasn't any good at what I did. Thanks for this video, it really helped bring to light what I wasn't seeing back then!

[@englishrose4562]

I experience this every time someone sees my art, and compliments me. Except when it's my mom :| It's a little frustrating, which is why I don't let others see my art much. But that is why I started KZbin! And thanks JelArts! Your art is soooo inspiring to me. I am now also taking on the idea of painting and doing watercolors. I might buy some when I go to an art store for the first time! Amazing video BTW! So helpful!

[@patjacobs3263]

Honestly it sounds like you are experiencing anxiety. I'm no dr. but I'm pretty sure that impostor syndrome has its roots in anxiety, particularly because you have a specific focus for your fears. Worth checking out anyway! Great videos and good luck!

[@pawsitivelyCurious]

i used to struggle with imposter syndrome a lot in highschool!! after i got out it stopped being such a problem since i was no longer in an environment that made me feel like i had to compare everything i did to someone else, but it is a thing and it's a very common problem with creatives. i remember one of my best friends at the time gave up drawing for a while because her anxiety about being a fake got to her really badly ): the thing that mostly helped me get over this stuff is mostly little forced changes in your mental dialogue - catch yourself when you're putting what you've worked for down. even if you don't really mean it, start rebuking the things your mind says in the negatives. you worked to get where you are! find little things in the flaws of your mind's logic and exploit it. reveal to yourself why you're wrong that you're a fake - give your effort as much value as you assign to others!! your actions should be weighed equally to others' actions! just because you have more insight to your own doings doesn't mean they're worth any less - when people compliment you, instead of analyzing the intent or why they're "wrong," try saying "that's really sweet, thanks" or something like it until you're able to actually accept what the compliments are saying! if you don't feel like you deserve a compliment, that doesn't always mean you have to turn it down. saying something like "that's really sweet" doesn't necessarily say you agree, but at least you don't somehow make the other person feel bad for wanting to make you feel good about what you did! refusing a compliment can make someone upset, b/c the intention is almost always just to praise or make you feel good for something you've put work or time into - remember that art, videos, music, whatever work you do -- it takes TIME. a lot of time! everyone's changing at different paces, everyone practices in different ways -- you are not fake for doing things differently, for wanting to pursue different mediums than others, for having a "common" or "unique" style. you've spent (or will spend) a lot of time -- maybe even YEARS -- improving, whether it's as a job or a hobby. give yourself the credit! let yourself feel good about it - one of the most important and cheesy phrases that ever got told to me was "fake it till you make it" if you don't think you deserve compliments, keep repeating to yourself that you do. if you don't believe you've spent a lot of effort on something, keep repeating to yourself that you did!! the "keep repeating positives" mantra you see a lot on social media and other silly things sounds super cheesy, but it's genuinely how i got over a lot of negative mindsets sORRY this comment is so long, but i hope some of this is helpful to somebody ; o ;

[@PATCHALEXY]

I graduated from an art school and i really felt like an imposter back then. Everyone was really productive and their progress was really visible while i was stuck on the project the whole time, i ended up graduating without ever having properly finished a project. Since i've always had trouble making friends, it was only at the end of the 3rd year that i started making real friends and feel accepted, but until that point i'd feel like everyone secretly hated me and i felt like i didn't deserve to be here, especially since i had been dealing with depression and skipped a lot of classes. Fortunately today, a year later, i'm about to finish this project i have been working on for the past 4 years and if things go well it'll he a gigantic kickstart to my career, my whole life might completely change and i feel that by that point i'll finally accept myself as a true artist !

[@tatiputz]

I totally have imposter syndrome and had no idea! it sucks so much :( it's weird cause when I was younger I was way more comfortable with compliments and so.. but now that I'm almost 23 and going to a graphic design school, I can't help but to act exactly the way you described you do :c I guess I compare myself too much now that I'm sorrounded by amazingly talented artists and feel a lot more insecure. but ever since I realized that, I''ve been trying really hard to actually believe someone when I get complimented. btw, just found out that you exist and loved your art! you're really talented and I mean it!!

[@TheNosarajr]

You've a long way to go, so feel inferior, you are, you'll grow, you do have respect for the great artists out there, that's a key. I'm an old geezer, I've had some success as a sculptor, I can't draw, but hope to learn. I feel the same way you do in an art store. It would be nice to be serene, better to be curious, nice to be confident, better to be a happy steady worker.

[@tiantian388]

I completely agree! I'm always insecure about my skill and intimidated by other artists. And by the way, your tutorials really do help me and inspire me :)

[@kaizze8777]

I always used to be the youngest wherever I go, and with that comes with the getting used to being quiet and just listening to older people around me. 15 years later with that I noticed people just asking me for advice and picking my brain for tips and stuff. In my mind I'm still the little kid that is used to being quiet. But now as a dad , husband and business man I still feel that way. Youth was the seed for my imposter syndrome but I'm getting used to it and comfortable with advising people. I have awards and plaques and photos to remind me that I am indeed "qualified" to speak on certain subjects. What helped me was to have these things up all the time, and just surround yourself with people that value YOU

[@jasonkarjadi4034]

Thank you for posting this; both for the talk and the slow-drawing video. It's nice

[@ChelseaGracei]

Your an amazing human

[@ladyofthelake98]

Someone finally said it! I've been feeling like this for while but couldn't quite point out what it was. Thank you so much! At least now I know it's not just me and I can hopefully start getting better by knowing I'm not alone

[@JoseMendez-xd4ll]

I can relate to this so much, I´ve been drawing my entire life, and I love art. However, I also have another passion, I love the electric guitar, but I haven't tried to play guitar because I had thoughs like the ones you mentioned in the video. To me, going to a guitar shop was extremely difficult, I felt like everyone was watching me, and judging me. It was horrible, and I did't feel like I was worthy of picking up a guitar, which, believe it or not, made me waste almost three years I could have used for practicing. Your video inspired me to try and do the things I'm afraid of. Thank you!

[@pizzatimetheater]

I feel this!!! Especially the art store thing but video game stores, even tho video games are my favorite games ever. I'm constantly terrified people will be like 'youve probably never even played that game before' when i wear video game shirts. Im glad i found this video! ^^

[@ilovevampires66]

Thank you so much, I didn't know this was a thing, I thought I was alone in this. I don't consider myself as an artist because I don't think I'm good enough, doesn't matter if others say otherwise, how many prizes or competitions I win or how many jobs they offer me I always feel like I'm fooling everyone and they're gonna find that I'm actually not talented at all. Knowing this is a thing actually help me to see things with a little more perspective!

[@amandac8836]

I have been having this feeling for the longest time and had no idea there was a term for it, holy crap. I'm legitimately in awe right now hahahaha. Phew, my mind was exhausted trying to figure out why I felt this way. Thank you so much for this!

[@aldoink]

I've definitely felt this way. I used to struggle to accept compliments about my art when I first started posting things online, and now I'm trying to work on a portfolio and go down the self-employment route, I feel like I have to tell people I know I'm not as good as they think I am; in case someone chimes in and points out how much I need to improve. Creative people are more likely to have some form of anxiety, so I think it's natural to feel this way as an artist. I also looked about 12 when I was 19, so I know that feeling too

[@abigailfalin2639]

I relate to absolutely everything in this video. I really struggle with feeling good about myself, especially my art, my personality, and the fact that I look younger than I am. It’s so annoying! But it’s so nice to know someone else is like me.

[@Vyrilien]

Veeery relatable, thanks for sharing! As for the art store thing, I kinda expected myself to feel that way when I recently had a few projects to do that I as a digital artist needed physical supplies for. But funnily enough because art isn't my career (never dared to dream to even pursue it professionally), my brain managed to trick itself into feeling secure about being a newb under the guise of 'don't mind me, I'm just a hobbyist messing around with whatever, don't mind me actual-professionals'. Of course, concerning competence in anything within my actual field of study I feel absolutely terrified of demonstrating. Man, isn't it funny how we're wired.

[@mikantsumiki1703]

I felt like that, and occasionally I still feel this, but now I'm an art teacher for all my friends, and because they're newer, and they're so enthusiastic, and their faces lit up when I started teaching them, and they strive for my approval I feel like I'm good. Because my whole friend group looks up to me.