Unmasking Imposter Syndrome: Stephanie Szostak's Journey of Overcoming Self-Doubt on Set

Stephanie Szostak, a veteran actress known for her roles in numerous films and TV shows, reveals a hidden struggle with imposter syndrome in her latest book Self!sh: Step Into a Journey of Self-Discovery to Revive Confidence, Joy, and Meaning. In this heartfelt memoir, the 48-year-old A Million Little Things alum shares her personal experience of battling with a "toxic" inner dialogue while working on set.

“It all started with self-doubt, and then it manifested physically too: My heart pounding and my legs trembling, as I relentlessly convinced myself that I didn’t belong in this place, that I was a fraud, and that I'd inevitably be dismissed,” Szostak reveals exclusively in the latest edition of We, while discussing her work experience on set. “This mindset did nothing to enhance my performance and only worsened how I felt.”

Szostak discovered that it took several years of silently struggling before she acquired effective coping techniques such as meditation and journaling. Additionally, she began documenting key insights and reminders from books, podcasts, and therapy sessions, forming a personal reference guide for whenever it was needed. Dubbing it her "own little tool," Szostak found this approach to be beneficial.

Inspired by Szostak's personal guide, Self!sh is a workbook that offers eight self-reflection exercises. This workbook will be launched on World Mental Health Day and aims to support the mental health organization Give an Hour.

According to Szostak, the goal is to help individuals create their own personalized playbook for life. It is important to note that the guide encompasses a diverse range of experiences, including stories from veterans, champion boxers, individuals in recovery, and those dealing with PTSD.

Post Hill Press

In the realm of mental fitness, Szostak emphasizes the paramount role of positive thinking. That's precisely why she begins her day by referring to her playbook, considering it essential. She points out how the influx of news, texts, and emails that we encounter when we turn on our phones in the morning profoundly affects our emotional state. Since we are constantly preoccupied, we often fail to let the inspiring and motivating content we come across penetrate our minds, leaving us trapped in negative thoughts.

The actress from Satisfaction elaborates that the book focuses on self-talk, which is the source of confidence.

"We all experience negative self-talk, and the key is to recognize it and cultivate empowering thoughts," she affirms.

Szostak has discovered a positive aspect in her current challenges, and she believes that Self!sh can also assist others in changing their perspective. She emphasizes that difficult experiences present opportunities for growth. Self!sh: Step Into a Journey of Self-Discovery to Restore Confidence, Happiness, and Purpose will be released on October 10th.

For more on Szostak’s own mental health journey and her new book, watch the video above and pick up a copy of the latest issue of We, on newsstands now.

With reporting by Christina Garibaldi