Previously, I posted about what so-called “Imposter Syndrome” can look like at the far end of the voiceover road.
And amid all the general (and most appreciated) encouragement, there was this from a guy I’ve always looked up to.
Doug Turkel. If you don’t know about him, you should. https://dougturkel.com/
Aside from being a terrific voice talent, he’s also been a strong proponent of self-promotion and self-confidence. Since meeting Doug at one of the earliest Faffcon events for voice talent,
I’ve been amazed by his success and marketing savvy – which is equal in every way to his willingness to share his wisdom.
After my “Imposter” mini-rant, he posted this personal reply. High praise, coming from a guy like Doug. Maybe I’ve learned more from him than I thought I have. Here’s what he wrote:
Rowell, I’ve written a lot about impostor syndrome, and I can tell you that everyone who takes their work seriously and holds themselves to a high standard knows what it feels like: that whisper (or SHOUT) of doubt, the sense that you’ve somehow fooled everyone and it’s only a matter of time before you’re found out.
But from the outside looking in, especially in your case, it’s clear that it’s not reality speaking, it’s just your high standards distorting the view.
Your skill, your range, and your professionalism have been proven time and again. You’ve put in the work, you’ve delivered, and you continue to raise the bar. That isn’t luck, and it sure isn’t trickery. It’s talent backed by experience and shaped by discipline. (Just think of all the work you’ve put in during the last couple of years alone!)
Here’s the real irony: the only people who don’t wrestle with impostor syndrome are usually the ones who *should*. Real impostors don’t question themselves, they coast on ego. The fact that you feel this way isn’t a weakness; it’s proof that you’re invested in doing excellent work. That self-awareness and humility? That’s what separates genuine professionals from pretenders. So when doubt creeps in, remember: it’s not a signal to shrink, it’s a sign you’re exactly where you belong.
You know all those people who’ve complimented you over the years? And all of us who’ve met you and are familiar with your work? We all have the highest respect for what you do…and we know that there’s nothing “impostor” about it.
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So, dear reader, if you identified with the stuff I wrote about feeling this way in my last post…put some of what Doug wrote up against your own experience. And I’ll betcha a cookie you’ll see something in there to make you feel better!
Thank you, Doug.
— over and out —
