On Overcoming Fear of Success

Have you ever been scared as an artist? The type of scared where you suddenly feel like a fraud and question all your abilities and contributions.

The very first time I had a piece accepted into a show, I felt that kind of fear. I was so excited to have my work recognized by the jurist and their belief in my work was so strong that they wanted to help me to share it with the rest of the world (albeit a small world because it was a small show). Yet at the same time, I was fearful that once the jurist saw my work in person, as opposed to the digital photo I had submitted to the call for art, that she was going to laugh and rescind the offer to show my work.

Well, I couldn’t have been more wrong!

She loved it. In fact, she told me that of all the works she had selected for the show, mine was her favorite. I graciously thanked her, but inside my mind was spinning. Wow! I thought to myself. My work really spoke to her. I wasn’t a fraud!

Of course, there were others in my personal life who told me my art was great and beautiful. It isn’t that I discounted their comments and appreciation. In fact, their support is what keeps me going and makes me want to do even better work. Yet there was a part of me that acknowledged they were emotionally biased. A jurist who must evaluate hundreds or even thousands of artworks and selects mine, well, that’s not due to emotional bias.

What I learned from that experience was that I have more to offer than I give myself credit. After having spoken with other artists, friends, family, etc., I know this is not a unique feeling to me. Many of us second guess or devalue our contributions to this world, whether in the things we create, or the ways we raise our children, or the intellect that we provide, or in other ways.

It is natural for us to want our work to be validated by strangers. I don’t think that necessarily goes away but having trust in ourselves and in what we contribute to this world is even more valuable.