21cMusician Toolkit 21cMusician Toolkit Health & Wellbeing Spotlight on Imposter Syndrome This Mental Health Month, we’re focusing on imposter syndrome - the feeling that, despite all evidence to the contrary, we got to where we are by luck or by chance and will eventually be found out. It is estimated that up to 80% of people may experience imposter syndrome at some point in their lives. But how can Imposter Syndrome affect us as musicians, and can we tackle it? How can coaching help with this? We chatted to Coaches Marion Friend MBE and Richard Collins to find out more... . So, first of all, how would you describe Imposter Syndrome? Marion: The most common things I hear from clients with imposter syndrome are that they're not worthy enough. They're looking over their shoulder all the time to people who may be performing better in their view, and they may think “their career’s going better than mine.” I heard someone describe it once as the ‘shitty committee’ and that shitty committee is telling them they’re not enough and others are much better. Richard: People with imposter syndrome feel like a fraud. That can be a really lonely feeling. They’re often making comparisons with others and thinking “they look so much more confident than me. How can they do all these things so naturally?” And they're keeping a lot of their thoughts to themselves which contributes to the feelings of loneliness. . How do you think that Imposter Syndrome affects musicians, in particular? Marion: I think it's important to bear in mind that musicians come in all ‘shapes and sizes’ and they have different specialisms. Some are singer-songwriters, some are orchestral musicians, some spend their time with a portfolio career doing a variety of activities centred around music. Imposter syndrome can rear its ugly head at any time in those professions. Richard: One of the common themes amongst musicians is perfectionism. Music is, of course, a highly competitive environment. From a very young age, we're used to looking at ourselves, and comparing ourselves against one another, thinking, “how do I compare with this person next to me?” Often musicians will struggle to think that they're doing well because they have extremely high standards for themselves. Marion: I think it's particularly the case when you're a new graduate, you've come out of college or university and you may think: “Now what? Am I up to this? I've studied for all this length of time but actually I don't know if I'll ever get into the profession and make a success of it. And what does success really mean?” Then when opportunities come up, you might be wary of seeking them out owing to lack of confidence and a sense of inadequacy. . Do you have any advice for someone who might be experiencing imposter syndrome? Marion: I’d firstly say know that you are not alone. Many people around you might be experiencing the same but are not talking about it. You may choose to talk to someone who is a compassionate listener and on your side, and this is where coaching can be very helpful . So, what is coaching? Richard: Coaching is a conversation that helps you move forward. A coach helps you to reflect on what's happening by asking questions that help you become more aware, work out what your choices are, and decide what actions you’re going to take. Importantly, coaching is completely confidential, which allows you to think freely and be more honest than you may feel able to be with your peers. When you're talking to family or friends, or indeed a teacher, they may have strong opinions, want to give you advice, or even tell you what you should do. Coaching isn’t like that - it’s an opportunity for you to explore your own thinking. Marion: Coaching can be transformative. It can really help people who are suffering from imposter syndrome by having this confidential supportive space, and by offering different options with their thinking and their career development. Coaches can put a mirror up to you and help you explore a different perspective with your challenges. Richard: Coaching is also a fantastic form of professional development. Often in coaching, people come to explore their career potential and growth. They might feel stuck in their careers, and think to themselves, “I really need some space to reflect and work out what I want to do into the future." Want to give Coaching a try? Whether or not you are experiencing Imposter Syndrome or another dilemma that you feel is disrupting your development, this Musicians’ Mental Health Month, we’re offering a limited number of free 30-minute one-to-one coaching sessions with Marion and Richard. Held online, they’re a chance to pause and refocus, helping you move forward with greater clarity and self-belief. Apply now - spaces are limited! . Is Coaching different from Psychotherapy? Sometimes the root cause of the symptoms of Imposter Syndrome might be something a little deeper, in which case, psychotherapy could be a good option for you. Unlike coaching, which is usually more future-focused and goal-oriented, Psychotherapy provides space to reflect more deeply on thoughts, feelings, and personal experiences. YCAT also has a limited number of free Psychotherapy sessions available this Musicians' Mental Health Month via Tonic Music, if you'd like to give it a go. Find out more about Psychotherapy Sessions . Our Coaches Marion Friend MBE is a consultant in arts & education and a life coach, mentor and facilitator with a particular interest in career development, and in supporting individuals to explore and reach their potential. Her clients including new graduates, professional musicians, chief executives in public and not-for-profit sectors, education, national portfolio organisations and charities. Website Email Richard Collins is a coach and facilitator, helping individuals and organisations in music and beyond make positive, lasting change. He has supported the development of talented, young musicians for the majority of his career. His work spans spans career and skills development, wellbeing and work/life integration, or simply ‘space to think’. LinkedIn Email Signing up to the 21cMusician newsletter gives you access to the latest content, advice and support, as well as exclusive offers and job listings! Sign up to the 21cMusician Newsletter Manage Cookie Preferences