Inspirational talks can take all sorts of forms. Here at E3C, we like to keep things informal and cozy! In November we held our first “Design Drink & Discuss”. This new talk series brings designers and other creative professionals together. The purpose? To be inspired by the experiences of other local creatives.
“The Imposter Syndrome: How to make it when you feel like you’re faking it. A talk for creatives” was given by Sunil Sarwal of The Small Monsters.
Sunil spoke about his own journey dealing with Imposter’s Syndrome, and how it affected his education and career. Starting with his time as a design student at NSCAD, his first job, his life as a freelancer, and finally as the head of an agency, he showed how Imposter’s Syndrome was both the cause of suffering and anxiety, and the driver behind his success.
Talk Highlights
Some key takeaways from Sunil’s talk and subsequent Q&A include:
- It’s okay to not know the answers. It’s not okay to let that isolate you. Ask those around you for help.
- Many, many people have Imposter’s Syndrome, but we can choose if it will push us forward or hold us back.
- ‘Fake it ’til you make it’ is real. Keep working, keep improving, and one day you won’t be faking it.
- Your old work looks bad now, not because it was bad, but because you’ve gotten better by doing it.
Photos by Shannon Ellis
Everyone Can Relate
In attendance were graphic designers, animators, programmers and illustrators. Students, professors, freelancers and enthusiasts. All coming together to bond over the common feelings that Imposter’s Syndrome brings. No matter their background, people nodded their heads in agreement at key moments in the talk.
We look forward to delivering more speakers to the Halifax creative scene in the new year. If you’re interested in giving an informal talk about your creative journey, we’d love to hear from you! No experience necessary, just a readiness to share your experiences with others.
