Feeling like an aerial imposter? Read this↓

When I first started aerial (18 years ago!), it was magical to learn my first climb, my first inversion, my first “wow” shape in the air. Each milestone lit me up with joy and kept me coming back for more. ✨

My very first aerial performance in 2008 in NYC!

Fast forward to now, and I’ll be honest, I’ve been feeling a bit aerialed out. My body and mind have been asking for more rest, and some days that means not training at all. Other days, it looks like moving in different ways, like yoga, handstands, strength training, long walks, or even a StairMaster class I’ve been into lately.

Recently, I’ve also been feeling a bit meh about my personal practice. I catch myself getting into comparison loops, like I need to keep up with all of the cool dynamics, catch-and-release moves, and what I call “aerial candy.” As much as I know better, even I deal with comparison and imposter syndrome at times.

But here’s the truth: we are all unique, we all have our own style and you do not need to do every single skill you see on social media or get every skill in class perfectly to be celebrated for the progress you’re making. And even if you’re in a season where you feel like you’re regressing, remember that constant upward progress isn’t always attainable and that’s okay! Life happens, and your practice will ebb and flow with it.

Whether it’s teaching aerial, opening a studio, creating an act, trying a new apparatus, auditioning for a role, posting on Instagram - you’ll likely feel like an imposter, especially in the beginning.

Who am I to be doing this?

What will they think of me?

Do I really have what it takes?

Ugh, I'm not good enough yet!

I’m going to mess this up and everyone will notice.

I shouldn’t be the one doing/teaching/leading/sharing this.

Yep, all of that sounds familiar. I know because I’ve been there! When I began Aerial Physique over 13 years ago, those thoughts swirled around in my mind often and still do at times. What I've learned is imposter syndrome doesn’t need to be gone before you take the leap. The courage comes from moving forward while it’s still there. To help with that, I put together a framework I call A-R-T-Y.

A-R-T-Y: A Framework for Moving Through Imposter Syndrome

A: Acknowledge Notice when you feel like an imposter, without adding shame or guilt on top of it. Almost everyone who’s achieved something meaningful has felt this way at some point. Often it’s rooted in fear or the stories we tell ourselves that aren’t actually true. Instead of being upset with yourself for feeling it, allow it to be there and carry it with you. Fear doesn’t mean stop, it usually just means something is new.

R: Ready is a lie The truth is, we almost never feel completely “ready” when it comes to doing something we care about. If you wait until that moment magically arrives, you’ll likely be waiting forever. Often, “I’m not ready” is procrastination wearing a disguise called perfectionism. What if, instead of waiting, you gave yourself permission to explore, to experiment and to see what unfolds?

T: Take action Confidence doesn’t come from overthinking or running through every “what if.” It comes from doing. Each small step - trying that new skill, teaching that first class, sharing that post, sending that audition video, or signing up for that workshop, builds momentum. Every action adds up, and before long, you’ll look back and realize you’ve been proving to yourself all along that you can.

Y: Your perspective matters Sure, others may be further along, but no one else has your exact story, your background, or your way of expressing movement. Each of us carries unique experiences and gifts that shape how we teach, create, or perform. The right people will connect with you because of that. You don’t need to have it all figured out before you begin - you’ll learn, grow, and refine along the way.

A Gentle Reminder

Confidence doesn’t just show up in aerial or in life, it grows every time you keep a promise to yourself. Each small commitment adds up, whether it’s focusing on that skill, dedicating time to something you want to improve, taking that class, or simply honoring your need for rest. Celebrate what your body can do, honor the seasons where you need more rest, and explore other ways of moving. Even the simplest skills hold the kind of magic that first drew us to aerial. You don’t have to love every part of where you are right now, but you can recognize your effort, your resilience, and your progress - that is to be applauded. 👏 Aerially yours, Jill