How to Beat Imposter Syndrome as a VTuber and Find Your True Voice ft. PiperSensei

Imposter syndrome is a common experience for many creatives, and VTubers are no exception. It’s that nagging feeling that no matter how hard you work or how much success you achieve, you’re not really deserving of it. This can manifest in various ways: constantly doubting your abilities, feeling like you don’t belong in the VTuber community, or thinking your success is based purely on luck rather than your talent and effort.

As an artist who dabbled in streaming years ago, I’ve had a taste of the streaming world, but I’m not a VTuber myself. That’s why I’ve invited a guest for this post who knows a lot more about the subject and can share her experience. You might relate to her story and hopefully take away some valuable advice!

With VTubing rapidly growing in popularity, (especially had a big boom in the last few years!) the pressure to stand out in an increasingly competitive digital space can add to these feelings of inadequacy. The constant comparison to other creators, the desire to maintain a virtual persona, and the fear of not meeting fan expectations can all intensify self-doubt.

Even behind a virtual avatar, VTubers can struggle with feeling like they’re not good enough. But if you’ve ever felt this way, know that you’re not alone and there are ways to manage these feelings and overcome imposter syndrome.

Introducing today’s special guest: the lovely Miss Piper, also known as PiperSensei! She’s a vibrant VTuber who not only entertains with gaming streams but also shares valuable VTubing and streaming tips, all while spreading positivity through her content. Let’s dive in and get to know her a bit more!

What inspired you to start your own VTuber channel?

I started VTubing because my husband thought it would be a good creative outlet for me at a time where teachers around the world were burning out from demands thanks to the pandemic. He felt I’d be good at VTubing and just judging from how I’m doing so far, he may be right? I think it’s that I’m already used to talking to an audience that may not necessarily respond – I’m actually a teacher irl too. When I began I wasn’t sure whether I’d be good at it because my personality did not align with my understanding of VTubers. But I came to realise VTubing is just a medium for content. It wasn’t about my personality fitting into VTubing, but how I could use VTubing to achieve something with my channel.

What motivates you to continue?

I believe it was discovering what I really wanted to accomplish with VTubing that motivated me when my imposter syndrome was at its highest. I went through my Vtubing ‘mid-life crisis’ about a year in. People who started out the same time as me were reaching milestones I hadn’t. I felt I wasn’t good enough because of it and that led me to thoughts of quitting. But taking a short hiatus and using that time to reflect helped me realise that I wanted to use what I knew as a teacher but in the VTubing space. From there my content skills developed and I slowly pivoted towards making content that would help others who are in the same place I was. My passion to help even one person overcome those same dark feelings motivates me!

Where does your teaching passion come from?

My students! Dedicating one’s life to helping others is a noble calling. And I’ve seen the transformative power of a good teacher. The small things that fuel my passion are the ‘aha-!’ moments and my students thanking me for what I’ve done for them. Teacher or not, everyone likes to be appreciated for what they do. The bigger picture of what fuels my passion is being able to be a part of so many people’s lives, seeing their progress and to have maybe contributed to it in some way.

What Is Imposter Syndrome?

Imposter syndrome is a psychological phenomenon where people doubt their abilities, feel like frauds, and believe they don’t deserve their achievements. Despite evidence of their competence and skill, people experiencing imposter syndrome are often convinced that they’ve only succeeded due to luck or because they’ve somehow deceived others into thinking they’re more capable than they really are. It’s a cycle of self-doubt that can be difficult to break, especially in creative fields.

Common symptoms of imposter syndrome include:

• A persistent fear of being exposed as a fraud.
• Constant self-doubt, even when things are going well.
• Attributing achievements to external factors like luck or timing rather than skill or hard work.
• Comparing yourself to others, especially in highly competitive fields.

For VTubers, imposter syndrome can manifest in unique ways. You might question your creative talent or feel like your success is undeserved compared to other creators in the community. Maybe you’ve built a following, but deep down, you feel like you aren’t “good enough” to keep up with your peers. This can lead to feeling inadequate despite positive feedback from your audience or significant milestones in your career.

These feelings can be even more pronounced in the VTubing world, where success can sometimes be tied to how well you perform as your virtual persona. The pressure to constantly innovate, entertain, and stay relevant can make you feel like you don’t measure up, even if your fans and peers see you differently. This gap between external validation and internal doubt is a hallmark of imposter syndrome, and it’s something many VTubers silently struggle with.

Why VTubers Are Prone to Imposter Syndrome

Here are some key reasons why VTubers often struggle with feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy:

1. Constant Comparisons to Other VTubers and Influencers

The VTubing community is incredibly competitive and fast-growing, which makes it easy to fall into the trap of comparison. You might find yourself constantly measuring your success against other VTubers, especially those with larger followings or more polished content. When you compare your journey to theirs, it can seem like you’re falling short, even when your own progress is significant. This can create a sense of inadequacy and further fuel the feeling that you don’t belong.

2. Balancing Content Creation and Fan Expectations

VTubing requires creators to juggle multiple roles: entertainer, content creator, social media presence, and community manager. On top of producing regular content, VTubers need to engage with their audience, meet fan expectations, and manage the pressures of staying relevant. If you’re constantly worried about not meeting these expectations, it’s easy to feel like you’re not doing enough. This balancing act, paired with the fear of letting your fans down, can lead to self-doubt, even if you’re giving it your all.

3. Performance Anxiety During Live Streams

Live streaming, a core part of the VTuber experience, can heighten imposter syndrome. Unlike pre-recorded content, live streams are unpredictable, and mistakes are visible in real time. Whether it’s a technical issue, a slip of the tongue, or a moment where you don’t feel “on,” these small hiccups can be magnified in your mind. The pressure to perform perfectly during every stream can trigger anxiety, and when things don’t go as planned, it can reinforce the idea that you’re not “good enough” for your audience.

Together, these factors create an environment where imposter syndrome can thrive, making it difficult for VTubers to feel confident in their abilities, despite their successes. Recognizing these challenges is the first step in overcoming them and reclaiming your confidence as a creator.

Can you tell me a little bit about your experience with impostor syndrome?

As a general comment about how I coped with it at the time, I may have felt unworthy in the VTubing context, but I was fortunate that I have other contexts in which I am pretty confident in (teaching, personal life..). I also have other interests and the support of irl friends, family and colleagues. That’s why I encourage overwhelmed VTubers to take a little break from VTubing – for me, it gave me the distance I needed to be able to calm down, think rationally and come back stronger! When your life revolves around one single thing, it can easily consume you.

The Consequences of Imposter Syndrome

Imposter syndrome doesn’t just create fleeting moments of doubt, it can have lasting effects on a VTuber’s mental health, creativity, and overall experience. When left unchecked, imposter syndrome can significantly impact both personal well-being and professional growth. Here are some of the major consequences VTubers may face when grappling with imposter syndrome:

1. Mental Health Impacts: Stress, Burnout, and Anxiety

The constant feeling of not being good enough can take a serious toll on mental health. VTubers often deal with producing content and meeting fan expectations, all while battling their own self-doubt. This can lead to anxiety, which may manifest in the form of overworking to “prove” one’s worth. Over time, the mental strain can lead to burnout, making it difficult to find joy in the creative process or even muster the energy to continue. If not addressed, the long-term stress of imposter syndrome can drain a VTuber’s passion and leave them feeling exhausted.

2. Stifled Creativity and Growth

Self-doubt can suffocate creativity. When a VTuber constantly questions their skills or talents, they may start second-guessing their ideas, holding back on content that could help them grow or connect with their audience. Fear of failure or not measuring up to others can cause creators to play it safe, avoiding new or experimental content that might otherwise propel their channel forward. This stifling of creative expression limits growth and prevents a VTuber from evolving both personally and professionally, as they may stick to what feels “acceptable” instead of exploring new avenues.

3. Risk of Detachment from the Community and Fans

One of the core aspects of VTubing is building a community around your content. However, imposter syndrome can create a sense of detachment. When VTubers feel like they don’t deserve their success or that they’re somehow deceiving their audience, it can become difficult to authentically engage with fans. This disconnect can cause a VTuber to pull back from their community, missing out on valuable interactions that could strengthen their channel. Over time, this detachment can lead to a weakened fan base and a loss of the support system that many VTubers rely on to keep going.

4. Struggling to Enjoy the VTubing Experience

At its core, VTubing is supposed to be a fun and creative outlet. But when imposter syndrome takes over, it can rob creators of the joy they once felt. Instead of enjoying the process of creating content, interacting with fans, and growing as a VTuber, those struggling with imposter syndrome may focus only on their perceived shortcomings. The persistent feelings of inadequacy can overshadow any sense of accomplishment, making it hard to take pride in their work. When enjoyment fades, VTubing can start to feel more like an obligation than a passion, leading to frustration and, in some cases, the desire to quit.

How has imposter syndrome shown up in your daily life?

When I’m not able to meet deadlines at work or I can’t fulfil family obligations, that’s when I feel a bit of imposter syndrome. But I find I don’t beat myself up as much as I might’ve when I was younger. Maybe that’s something that comes with age and life experience.

How to Recognize and Combat Imposter Syndrome

Overcoming imposter syndrome begins with recognizing its impact on your mindset and daily life. Here are some practical steps VTubers can take to identify and combat imposter syndrome, helping to reclaim confidence and enjoy the creative process.

1. Recognizing Negative Self-Talk and Challenging These Thoughts

The first step in combating imposter syndrome is identifying the negative self-talk that often fuels it. Pay attention to those internal voices telling you that you’re not good enough or that you don’t deserve your success. Once you recognize these thoughts, challenge them by asking yourself if they’re based on facts or feelings. For example, if you think, “I only succeeded because I got lucky,” counter that thought with evidence of your hard work, skills, and creativity. Reframing negative thoughts can help you regain perspective and recognize your true value.

2. Focus on Achievements and Strengths Instead of Comparing to Others

It’s easy to fall into the comparison trap, especially in the VTubing community where creators constantly showcase their latest accomplishments. However, instead of comparing yourself to others, focus on your own unique journey. Take time to reflect on your achievements, both big and small. Celebrate the milestones you’ve reached, whether it’s gaining a new subscriber, successfully streaming a live session, or creating content that resonates with your audience. By focusing on your strengths and accomplishments, you can shift the narrative from “I’m not good enough” to “I’m making progress.”

3. Accept Imperfection as Part of Growth

No VTuber’s journey is without mistakes or challenges, and that’s perfectly normal. Recognizing that imperfection is a natural part of the creative process can help ease the pressure you place on yourself. Instead of striving for unattainable perfection, embrace the hiccups and learning moments along the way. Each mistake is an opportunity to improve and grow. By accepting imperfection, you can relieve some of the self-imposed stress that feeds into imposter syndrome and take a more balanced, forgiving approach to your VTubing career.

4. Build a Supportive Network of Fellow VTubers

One of the best ways to combat imposter syndrome is by connecting with other VTubers who understand what you’re going through. Building a supportive network of fellow creators can provide a sense of community and validation. Talk to other VTubers about their experiences with self-doubt, and you’ll quickly realize you’re not alone. Sharing your struggles with people who get it can be incredibly reassuring, and these relationships can offer much-needed encouragement when you’re feeling low.

5. Take Time Off and Explore Side Hobbies

Sometimes, stepping back from VTubing and taking a break can help refresh your mindset. Engaging in side hobbies outside of content creation can build confidence in other areas of your life and remind you that you are more than your online persona. Whether it’s trying a new craft, exercising, or simply indulging in a personal passion, giving yourself time to recharge can help combat burnout and improve your overall well-being.

6. Practice Self-Care and Set Realistic Goals

Imposter syndrome often leads to burnout, as you may push yourself harder in an attempt to “prove” your worth. To avoid this, prioritize self-care and set realistic goals for your content creation. Make time for activities that recharge you, whether that’s spending time offline, enjoying hobbies, or connecting with friends. Additionally, break down your VTubing goals into manageable steps, and don’t overwhelm yourself with unrealistic expectations. Setting achievable targets allows you to celebrate progress without feeling like you constantly need to do more to be successful.

What is your current relationship with it?

I don’t really encounter it much at the moment in VTubing anymore. It’s largely thanks to knowing when to take a step back from social media, putting things in perspective when I do find myself comparing, and trusting in my community. I have had no reason to doubt them so far so I shouldn’t start now! I’m at peace with being imperfect but I strive to be my best anyway.

Interview with Miss Piper

Do you ever compare yourself to other VTubers, and how does that affect your confidence?

I used to but not so much anymore. It was definitely the main reason behind my little hiatus in 2023. Nowadays if I feel a bit of imposter syndrome, I think I have the experience and developed awareness to rein myself in and remind myself “hey: you’re not them, that’s not a fair comparison and you know it.”

How do you manage or overcome feelings of self-doubt when they arise?

To build on the previous answer, I think it comes down to a conscious effort to change one’s mindset. It certainly takes time but because I’ve been in the scene long enough, I feel like I’ve been able to develop it to a point that imposter syndrome doesn’t affect me as much anymore. Other conscious mindset changes include choosing to focus on your friends and supporters rather than your detractors or the people who aren’t aware of your existence.

Do you feel that the anonymity of VTubing affects your sense of self or impostor syndrome in any way?

It’s definitely affected my sense of self for the better! It’s allowed me the freedom to create a persona that is a more accurate representation of how I feel – cute pinky anime girl who’s Sonic obsessed – and that makes me feel more confident about myself. I’m not sure definitively how this affects my imposter syndrome but perhaps it comes down to the individual.

Are there any strategies or practices you use to stay grounded and remind yourself of your worth?

There is a story that carries a lot of teachers through especially tough times – The Starfish Story, by Loren Eiseley (super short, I’ve attached a nice graphic of it I found below). Its moral is that we have worth because of the small good we are able to do. So if I ever start feeling low, I think of the kind comments I’ve gotten from people thanking me for the content I make. That reminds me that what I do is worthwhile even if I’m not changing the world

Wrapping Up

Imposter syndrome is a common experience, especially in creative spaces like VTubing where the pressure to perform and meet expectations can feel overwhelming. It’s important to remember that these feelings of self-doubt don’t define your worth as a creator. Every VTuber has their own unique path, complete with ups and downs, and that’s what makes this community so vibrant.

Embrace your individuality, trust in your journey, and remember that you’re constantly growing, learning, and improving. Your voice and creativity matter, even when you might not feel it.

If you’ve ever struggled with imposter syndrome as a VTuber, know that you’re not alone. Keep going, and don’t let self-doubt hold you back from sharing your content with the world. Your community is waiting to hear from you!

Follow me on Twitch at pipersensei and Twitter at pipersensei to see more of my content!

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