Margot Robbie, an acclaimed Oscar-nominated actress and producer, sheds light on the pervasive challenges faced by women in Hollywood, addressing issues of s---sm and the internal struggle with Impostor Syndrome.
Despite her success and pivotal role as a producer through LuckyChap Entertainment, Robbie emphasizes the persistent difficulties of being taken seriously in decision-making processes. She reveals the ingrained nature of internalized s---sm, wherein individuals, even when aware of her position, turn to older male counterparts for key decisions. Robbie reflects on the societal construct that perpetuates these dynamics, highlighting the need for a collective shift toward embracing equality.
As one of the main producers and the lead in "Birds of Prey," a superheroine film featuring Harley Quinn, Black Canary, Huntress, and Renee Montoya, Robbie experiences the challenges of breaking through traditional gender norms in the film industry. Despite holding the answers to crucial questions, she observes a tendency for others to bypass her and consult male producers, showcasing the prevailing biases that persist.
Additionally, Robbie shares a deeply personal struggle with Impostor Syndrome, a phenomenon characterized by an individual's inability to internalize their achievements, accompanied by a persistent fear of being exposed as a fraud. The actress acknowledges her self-critical nature and high standards, constantly striving for improvement. Even after notable achievements like her preparation for the film 'I, Tonya,' where she underwent four months of skating classes, Robbie reveals that she rarely feels a sense of accomplishment.
"I don't think there's ever been a time where I've thought, 'You've done it,'" she admits. The actress describes an ongoing cycle of self-imposed pressure, always aiming for improvement and battling the feelings of inadequacy associated with Impostor Syndrome. Despite her success, Robbie's journey serves as a reminder that even accomplished individuals can grapple with self-doubt.
Impostor Syndrome, though not officially recognized as a mental illness, manifests as unwarranted doubts and a lack of self-esteem, particularly affecting intelligent and successful individuals. It often emerges after significant achievements, contributing to persistent fears of being exposed as a fraud. The term was coined by clinical psychologists Pauline Clance and Suzanne Imes in 1978, and its impact is widespread, with minorities and women being more susceptible to its effects.
