opinion

Tips for Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

Tips for Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

Imposter syndrome is a silent yet formidable foe that many of us encounter at some point in our lives. It doesn’t discriminate by gender, profession or even accomplishments. In fact, it often thrives in environments where success is prevalent, making it all the more challenging to overcome. In this article, I’ll share personal insights into conquering imposter syndrome from the perspective of a female CEO and sex worker.

Welcome to the Club

The more I pushed my boundaries, the more my confidence grew. Successes, once recognized and owned, became powerful antidotes to imposter syndrome.

Imposter syndrome is a psychological phenomenon where we doubt our accomplishments and have an internalized fear of being exposed as a fraud. It can be particularly acute in a competitive industry like ours. I’ve often found myself wondering, throughout my 25-year professional career, if my achievements were a result of inherited privilege, pure luck or if I genuinely earned my success.

Acknowledgment

One crucial aspect of overcoming imposter syndrome is recognizing it. For me, this realization came when I attended the last XBIZ LA conference and found myself doubting my ability to network with industry peers and contribute meaningfully to the discussions. It was then that I understood that imposter syndrome was holding me back from seizing opportunities to learn and grow.

Acceptance

To combat imposter syndrome, I began to focus on self-compassion and self-awareness. I learned to appreciate my accomplishments, recognizing that they were the result of hard work, determination and expertise. I also realized that failure and self-doubt are part and parcel of the journey to success. In order to grow, I have to face all the challenges facing me, both internal and external.

Support Networks

Mentorship has also played a pivotal role in my journey. I sought guidance from successful individuals who have faced similar challenges. Their stories of resilience and the hurdles they have overcome are truly inspiring. Additionally, building a support network of peers who share my experiences allows me to validate my feelings and gain a fresh perspective.

Lean Into Change

Taking risks and stepping out of my comfort zone became my mantra. Instead of shying away from challenging opportunities, I embraced them. The more I pushed my boundaries, the more my confidence grew. Successes, once recognized and owned, became powerful antidotes to imposter syndrome.

Gratitude With a Dash of Perspective

Furthermore, practicing gratitude helped me appreciate my journey. Regularly reflecting on my accomplishments, both big and small, allowed me to see how far I have come. Gratitude not only boosts my self-esteem but also instills a positive mindset. 

As a female CEO, I’ve realized that embracing vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness. It’s essential to acknowledge that imposter syndrome is not a condition exclusive to gender or age; it can affect anyone. Consequently, it’s important for those in leadership roles to share our experiences openly to create a more informed and inclusive environment.

Imposter syndrome is a formidable adversary. It can be especially challenging for those in the adult industry, which has no formal road map to success. However, this challenge can be overcome with self-compassion, mentorship, risk-taking, gratitude and a willingness to embrace vulnerability.

We must remember that our achievements are not mere accidents, but the result of our hard work and dedication. As sex workers, as professionals and as members of society, we have a responsibility to share our stories, hopefully helping others overcome imposter syndrome and achieve their full potential.

With over 20 years’ experience in mainstream marketing, retired sex worker Carly David originally began her career in entertainment before transitioning to advertising agencies. In 2018, she founded PS: Group, a creative agency for the adult industry. She advocates for sex workers’ rights and decriminalization. For more information, follow @WeArePSgroup on X.com and visit wearepsgroup.com.

Related:  

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More Articles

profile

WIA Profile: Lexi Morin

Lexi Morin’s journey into the adult industry began with a Craigslist ad and a leap of faith. In 2011, fresh-faced and ambitious, she was scrolling through job ads on Craigslist when she stumbled upon a listing for an assistant makeup artist.

Women In Adult ·
profile

Still Rocking: The Hun Celebrates 30 Years in the Game

In the ever-changing landscape of adult entertainment, The Hun’s Yellow Pages stands out for its endurance. As one of the internet’s original fixtures, literally nearly as old as the web itself, The Hun has functioned as a living archive for online adult content, quietly maintaining its relevance with an interface that feels more nostalgic than flashy.

Jackie Backman ·
opinion

Digital Desires: AI's Emerging Role in Adult Entertainment

The adult industry has always been ahead of the curve when it comes to embracing new technology. From the early days of dial-up internet and grainy video clips to today’s polished social media platforms and streaming services, our industry has never been afraid to innovate. But now, artificial intelligence (AI) is shaking things up in ways that are exciting but also daunting.

Steve Lightspeed ·
opinion

More Than Money: Why Donating Time Matters for Nonprofits

The adult industry faces constant legal battles, societal stigma and workplace challenges. Fortunately, a number of nonprofit organizations work tirelessly to protect the rights and well-being of adult performers, producers and industry workers. When folks in the industry think about supporting these groups, donating money is naturally the first solution that comes to mind.

Corey D. Silverstein ·
opinion

Consent Guardrails: How to Protect Your Content Platform

The adult industry takes a strong and definite stance against the creation or publication of nonconsensual materials. Adult industry creators, producers, processors, banks and hosts all share a vested interest in ensuring that the recording and publication of sexually explicit content is supported by informed consent.

Lawrence G. Walters ·
opinion

Payment Systems: Facilitator vs. Gateway Explained

Understanding and selecting the right payment platform can be confusing for anyone. Recently, Segpay launched its payment gateway. Since then, we’ve received numerous questions about the difference between a payment facilitator and a payment gateway. Most merchants want to know which type of platform best meets their business needs.

Cathy Beardsley ·
opinion

Reinventing Intimacy: A Look at AI's Implications for Adult Platforms

The adult industry has long revolved around delivering pleasure and entertainment, but now it’s moving into new territory: intimacy, connection and emotional fulfillment. And AI companions are at the forefront of that shift.

Daniel Keating ·
profile

WIA: Sara Edwards on Evolving Clip Culture and Creator Empowerment

Though she works behind the scenes, Sara Edwards has had a front-row seat to the evolution of adult content creation. Having been immersed in the sector since 1995, she has a unique perspective on the industry.

Jackie Backman ·
profile

Segpay Marks 20 Years of High-Risk Triumphs

Payment processors are behind-the-scenes players in the world of ecommerce, yet their role is critical. Ensuring secure, seamless transactions while navigating a rapidly changing regulatory landscape requires both technological expertise and business acumen.

Jackie Backman ·
opinion

The SCREEN Test: How to Prepare for Federal Age Verification

For those who are counting, there are now 20 enacted state laws in the United States requiring age verification for viewing online adult content, plus numerous proposed laws in the works. This ongoing barrage has been exhausting for many in the adult industry — and it may be about to escalate in the form of a potential new AV law, this time at the federal level.

Corey D. Silverstein ·
Show More