Imposter syndrome can be a pervasive feeling for many professionals, and the lash industry is no exception.
As a lash artist, you might find yourself in a constant pursuit of perfection, comparing your work to industry standards and feeling a sense of inadequacy from time to time. Beauty industry professionals face unique challenges that can amplify these emotions.
At Lashin' Out, we believe every artist has a unique talent and can excel with the right mindset and support system.
In this blog post, we'll explore ways to break free from imposter syndrome and build a solid foundation for your lash business.
What Is Imposter Syndrome?
Imposter syndrome can be described as a feeling of inadequacy and self-doubt despite evidence of success and competence. It is a psychological pattern that affects individuals in various fields, from business professionals to athletes and, yes, lash artists.
Many lash artists, especially in the highly competitive lash industry, experience this feeling. It’s that nagging sense that you don’t belong here and that your clients or peers will soon discover you're not as skilled as they think.
Feelings of inadequacy can stem from various sources, including:
- Societal pressure
- Unrealistic achievement standards
- Personal insecurities
The Impact on Lash Artists
The lash industry is highly competitive and continuously evolving with new techniques and trends.
As a lash artist, you may feel pressured to keep up with these changes while maintaining high-quality work for your clients.
The constant pursuit of perfection can take a toll on your mental health and lead to anxiety.
Comparing your work to other beauty industry professionals, especially in the close-knit community of lash artists, can worsen these feelings.
The characteristics of imposter syndrome include:
- Self-doubt: Constantly questioning your skills and qualifications, even with evidence.
- Attributing success to external factors: Believing your success is due to luck, timing, or other external factors rather than your talent and hard work.
- Perfectionism: Setting extremely high standards and feeling that anything less then perfection is a failure.
- Fear of failure: Avoiding challenges due to fear of not meeting expectations.
- Overworking: Putting in excessive effort at the expense of well-being.
- Discounting praise: Brushing off compliments or positive feedback.
- Comparison: Measuring your abilities against peers and feeling inferior.
“Comparison is the thief of joy.” ~Theodore Roosevelt
How To Break Free From Imposter Syndrome
Feeling confident is essential for overcoming imposter syndrome. Here's how you can build confidence as a lash artist:
- Recognize your achievements: Start by acknowledging your achievements and your progress in your lash career. Celebrate every milestone, whether mastering a new technique or gaining a loyal client base.
- Focus on your individuality: Remember that each lash artist has a unique style and talent. Instead of constantly comparing yourself to others, focus on developing your craft and showcasing your individuality.
- Be open to learning and growing: The beauty industry is constantly evolving, and as a lash artist, it's important to stay updated with new techniques and trends. Embrace the opportunity to learn and grow rather than see it as a reflection of your inadequacy.
Create a Supportive Community
The lash industry is competitive, so having a supportive community is essential. Surround yourself with other lash artists who uplift and inspire you. This can provide a sense of belonging and remind you that imposter syndrome is a common struggle for many.
At Lashin' Out, we've created an inclusive community of lash artists where we share our successes and challenges and support one another in our growth journey. We believe in lifting one another up rather than competing.
Practice Self-Care
Self-care is essential for lash artists to prevent burnout and maintain mental well-being. Set boundaries for yourself and prioritize time for rest and relaxation. By reducing stress and anxiety, you can perform at your best.
Take care of your physical health by getting enough sleep, eating well, and staying active. Doing these things can also have a positive impact on your mental state.
Dealing With Pre-Appointment Anxiety
Pre-appointment anxiety is a common issue among lash artists and can add to feelings of imposter syndrome.
Some strategies to cope with this anxiety include:
- Plan ahead and be organized
- Visualize a successful appointment
- Take deep breaths and practice relaxation techniques
- Remind yourself of your achievements and skills
Join the Lashin’ Out Community
Are you ready to overcome imposter syndrome and thrive as a lash artist? Join the Lashin’ Out community today!
Experience the benefits of being part of a supportive network that understands your journey, celebrates your achievements, and helps you through challenges.
Lashin' Out understands the challenges you face...we've been there too! That's why we offer a personalized 1:1 mentorship program...all about you! You tell us where you are struggling, and we will tailor your session to help you grow and succeed as a lash artist. Let’s overcome imposter syndrome together! 💜
