Journal Prompts for Imposter Syndrome

We need tools to combat the inner critic when it shows up, (usually unannounced). I wanted to get specific with one of the inner critics called Imposter syndrome. Once you recognize that your thinking is really imposter syndrome, you can start to use tools to challenge it. By the end of this post you will know which journal prompts for imposter syndrome are a fit for you and how to put them to use.

What is imposter syndrome?

Imposter syndrome is when our inner critic is turned on and is telling you in a number of ways that you are not qualified enough for your craft. It is believing that you are going to be found out to be a phony, an imposter.

Recognize imposter syndrome

Look at the list of imposter syndrome statements and check off any that apply to you. You can then customize the ones on the list or add your own.

There are so many artists better than me
Someone else could do what I do, but better.
Why should I bother trying?
My art practice is a waste of time.
My social media accounts are not as polished or curated as they should be.
Who am I to call myself an artist?
I didn’t go to school for this.
What if someone finds out how little training I really have?
What is someone tells me I have no talent?
I don’t deserve to be in the front of the stage.
It must be luck that got me here.
Someone is going to find out I have no talent.

Challenge imposter syndrome

Let’s take one of the imposter syndrome statements above and challenge it with a series of questions.

Someone is going to find out that I have not talent.

What will you do if this happens? I will be embarrassed.

Will their findings keep you from creating your art? Maybe for a time.

How can you be certain that what they say is true? I guess I can’t be certain.

Are there “talent” credentials? No, I guess not.

What is your talent? I create repeating patterns for fabric.

Who determines your talent? Future companies?

What if they don’t like your work? I’ll find someone that does

Isn’t talent subjective and individual? Yes

So, would you agree that you have talent? Yes

Can you develop your talent? Yes

Do you see how a series of specific questions can unearth what is irrational and what is truth?

Imposter syndrome journal prompts

The following journal prompts are the result of challenging and reframing the imposter syndrome lies (listed above ) into truthful affirmations. Each number below corresponds with the imposter syndrome statements above.

I am unique and talented in my own right.
No one else is me, no one can create my unique work.
My effort is worth my time and dedication.
My art practice is sacred and needed.
I am appreciating what I have shared on my social media, and it’s a work in progress.
I am choosing to call myself an artist, for this is who I am.
There are many teachers in life other than going to school.
My training is no one’s business but mine and who I choose to share it with.
I am choosing to listen to those who support me and my work.
I am here for a reason and I have a right to be in the center.
I got to where I am now through hard work and talent.
I have talent and I do not need to prove this to anyone.

How and when to use imposter syndrome journal prompts

Choose a one or two that you want to work one. Practice writing one out once a day as well as any thoughts. It also helps to rate your belief when you write them out each day. The goal is to increase your belief in your affirmation each day. Saying them out loud at the beginning of the day as a form of setting you intention, will also solidify them.

If you work better with accountability while challenging your imposter, check out the video below for a unique and exciting opportunity.

I hope you have enjoyed learning about how to use journal prompts to challenge and reframe your imposter. If you have like what you have read, please share the love with a comment or pin. Thank you!