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Imposter Syndrome Is Real in DJing

I spent time with an accomplished DJ and producer today, and as usual, we got deep into the psychology of DJing. There are a few things we always end up circling back to—stuff we wish someone had told us early on:

1. DJing = Real-Time Problem Solving

If you’ve ever played vinyl, you’ll get this. Things go out, go wrong, need fixing—live. You’re solving problems in front of a crowd while making it look like you’re totally in control.

And you are, but only because you’ve trained that part of your brain to stay calm and agile. It’s like playing chess while dancing on a moving train.

2. Evolve or Die

Music tech moves fast. CDJs, controllers, software, stems—whatever it is, it’s changing. We both started on vinyl (he’s waaaay better than I!) and have a soft spot for it, but let’s be real: it’s expensive and fiddly.

We’ve shifted through tech over the years not just to stay current but with a view to keeping the audience engaged.

DJing is a journey; evolving with the tech is part of that.

3. DJing Is Just the Ticket In

Learning to mix isn’t the destination. It’s the pass into the industry. It gets you into the room, but your unique value keeps you there.

My friend loves supporting big DJs behind the scenes (ironically, I think he’s one of them). For me, DJing gave me a platform—so that DJ coaching and therapy is where I bring my unique value.

We decided that these interests and skills are your super power as a DJ. No one can imitate your most passionate offering.

4. Physical Space Shapes Headspace

We got into how different spaces make us feel. He mentioned how the Baby Box at the Ministry of Sound feels tight and awkward, whereas the 103 room feels spacious and commanding.

I agreed—and added that clubs in general feel more comfortable to me. Why? Because behind the decks, we’re supposed to be there. We have permission. No punters reaching over asking for Pitbull tracks.

Bars, on the other hand? Different story. You’re on the same level as the crowd—both physically and energetically.

Requests come flying in. Boundaries blur. You’re accessible, and that changes the dynamic entirely.

5. The Mental Game Is the Real Game

Then we went deeper.

Beyond the physical space, we talked about the mental space. My mate prepares deeply for his sets. He’s meticulous, thoughtful, and strategic.

And yet, despite more than a decade of experience and incredible skill, he admitted something surprising:

Looking up at the crowd sometimes triggers imposter syndrome.

That hit me. Hard. Because if he’s feeling that, with all his talent and track record, then clearly—we all do.

Here’s the Truth:

• Performance anxiety is normal.
• Imposter syndrome shows up for most of us.
• And the only real move? Step up and perform anyway.

Or as Susan Jeffers put it:

“Feel the fear and do it anyway.”

I’m sharing this because if you’re reading this and feeling that self-doubt creeping in, you’re not alone. Imposter syndrome just means you care. You give a damn. You’re in the game.

And if you’re in the game, keep playing.