SZA’s Honesty About Insecurity and Impostor Syndrome

Article by Manuela Bittencourt – 08/12/2025

SZA isn’t just known for her unique voice and genre-blending sound—she’s also admired for her openness about her struggles with insecurity and impostor syndrome. 

Her journey offers a genuine insight into how even successful artists grapple with self-doubt, and how honesty can be a powerful tool for healing and connection.

What is Impostor Syndrome?

Impostor syndrome is that nagging feeling that you don’t belong—that your success is a fluke and it’s only a matter of time before someone calls you out as a “fraud.”

It’s especially common among artists, whose work is deeply personal, constantly evolving, and always on display for judgment.

SZA’s Struggle and Strength

Despite Grammy nominations, platinum records, and sold-out tours, SZA has opened up about feeling like she’s “faking it” or that she’s somehow undeserving of the praise.

SZA even opened up, saying she was anxious that people would only go to the grand national tour to ‘see Kendrick.’ (Dailey)

She’s spoken candidly about anxiety, perfectionism, and the emotional toll of living up to the expectations that come with success—even while making some of the most defining R&B music of her generation.

​​You can hear that insecurity woven into her songs. In “Normal Girl,” she sings:

“Wish I was the type of girl you take over to mama / The type of girl, I know my daddy, he’d be proud of.”

The line aches with the feeling of not being enough, of wishing to be someone more lovable, more accepted—feelings at the core of impostor syndrome.

Why Her Honesty Matters

SZA doesn’t just sing about vulnerability—she lives it. By sharing her mental health struggles publicly, she permits others to do the same.

Her honesty chips away at the pressure to “have it all together” and reminds us that insecurity doesn’t cancel out talent, growth, or worthiness.

In a world obsessed with filters, metrics, and perfection, her authenticity resonates deeply. And that’s exactly why it matters.

How to Deal With Impostor Syndrome

• Recognize that it’s common—even your heroes feel it. 
• Reframe your thoughts: success doesn’t mean you’re perfect, just persistent. 
• Celebrate small wins and progress, not just perfection. 
• Talk openly about your feelings. Silence feeds the fear. 

Remember: your voice is unique and needed.

Final Thought

SZA’s journey shows that doubt doesn’t disqualify you—it humanizes you. And sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do is keep showing up anyway.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re not enough, you’re in good company. But your art, your effort, and your voice?

They’re more than enough.

So next time that voice in your head says, “Who do you think you are?”
Answer back: “Exactly who I need to be.”

Bibliography

Dailey, Hannah. “SZA Worried Fans Would Want to See Only Kendrick Lamar on Joint Tour.” Billboard, 17 June 2025, www.billboard.com/music/music-news/sza-worried-fans-only-want-kendrick-lamar-joint-tour-1236001130/. Accessed 31 July 2025.