Imposter syndrome can do a number on your confidence.
You know what I’m talking about — that feeling when you volunteer to step into something new but you don’t know exactly what you’re doing.
You’re afraid of failing because you’re exposed as maybe not such an expert after all and you think everyone else around you knows more than you do.
If you’ve ever felt this way, I’m sure you thought having this feeling was a bad thing but I have some news for you.
A little fear and discomfort is good for you. It makes sure you’re not complacent.
You also have some additional motivation to continue learning and stay at the top of your field.
I’ve been in the consulting world for about 10 years and whenever I meet a new client there’s still a little voice telling me “don’t screw this up.” and “make sure you show them you really do know things.”
Too much fear bordering on paranoia, on the other hand, can be problematic… if the job is consuming all of your waking hours…
… or you’re not sleeping at all because every time you close your eyes you see that thing you’re struggling with at work.
I’ve even been through some experiences a couple of years ago where the stress was so real I could feel unrelenting tightness in my chest.
So what do you do to overcome this?
Phone a friend. Whether a paid coach, personal friend or mentor who can check you and help you decipher fact from fiction, you need to figure out who that person is for you.
Some people even have what they consider a personal board of directors.
The important thing is not trying to go it alone.
Let that marinate for a bit (but not too long… because fate rewards the action takers) and then make your next move.
Whenever you’re ready to build your board of directors, you can start by going here
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