You might be familiar with the pattern: You set a new goal or make a significant change, and initially, there’s excitement. But as you start to implement these changes, feelings of discomfort and self-doubt begin to creep in.
This internal tug-of-war is often a sign that you’re pushing your boundaries and growing, but it can also feel paralyzing.
In my journey, as much success as I've built and as much gratitude as I have for where I am, there is always a part of me, especially looking back 12 years, that thinks, I wonder how much of an impact I could have made by now if I hadn't doubted myself.
If I hadn't told myself I wasn't ready yet, or if I didn't listen to those thoughts that I was afraid to put myself in places or conversations or rooms that felt too big for me, I wonder where I would be.
It’s a challenge many of us face but often hesitate to talk about due to the shame and stigma attached. Yet, it’s crucial to normalize this conversation and explore how we can transform these feelings into catalysts for growth.
There are proven strategies to break free from these limiting beliefs and move forward with confidence. In this blog, I’ll guide you through how to confront these doubts, shift your mindset, and use these challenges as stepping stones for growth.
Understanding the Hidden Sign of Growth
What is something that you knew was for you or that you wanted and you immediately in your head said, “No, not yet.”?
Despite the achievements and milestones, you may still feel like a fraud or doubt your capabilities. It’s almost like you start to interview yourself with questions like:
Who am I to serve that level of client?
Who am I to charge that much?
Who am I to stand on those stages?
Who am I to lead this team?
Who am I to write a book?
This cycle is not unusual and the feelings can be unsettling. Often, these feelings are rooted in fear of the unknown or fear of failure.
“Imposter syndrome is based in fear, fear of the unknown.”
I’ve experienced it firsthand. Looking back over 12 years of coaching, I can identify how my own self-doubt and imposter syndrome have occasionally held me back.
Yet, this discomfort isn’t a reason to pull back; it’s a sign that you’re expanding your comfort zone.
It’s time to stop treating these feelings as normal and start addressing them as the roadblocks they truly are. This is where we have a choice. We can either retreat back to our old habits or face these feelings head-on and push through them.
Turning Doubt into Action
If you’re feeling like an imposter, it’s a sign that you’ve reached a crucial point in your journey. It is a signal that you’re on the brink of growth. It’s an opportunity to challenge those limiting beliefs and embrace your true potential.
Typically, we think that the solution lies in surface-level strategies….like gaining more knowledge or skills. Surface-level strategies can provide immediate relief, but often, the root cause is deeper.
This is where support systems, like the Mom Founders Inner Circle, can make a difference. By joining a community of like-minded women who understand your struggles and aspirations, you gain access to tailored guidance and a network of support that helps you navigate these challenges more effectively.
The key to moving past imposter syndrome and self-doubt is to address these thoughts directly. It’s not about eliminating fear entirely but learning to manage it effectively. You need to transform the way you think about yourself and your capabilities.
6 Steps to Rewriting Your Inner Narrative
To overcome imposter syndrome and self-doubt, you need more than just tactical strategies. Here’s how you can start:
1. Acknowledge the Feelings: Recognize that imposter syndrome and self-doubt are signals that you’re pushing boundaries and growing.
Imagine you’ve just been invited to speak at a high-profile industry event. Your immediate reaction might be, “I’m not qualified to speak at this level.”
Recognize that this discomfort is a sign of growth. Acknowledge that feeling out of place is natural when you’re stepping into a new role.
2. Shift Your Mindset: Instead of viewing these feelings as obstacles, see them as opportunities for growth. Understand that feeling uncertain is a natural part of expanding your comfort zone.
Maybe you’ve been considering raising your prices to reflect the value you provide, but you’re afraid clients will leave. Shift your mindset by viewing this as a step towards valuing your expertise appropriately. Embrace the idea that setting higher standards is a natural part of growing your business.
3. Develop Confidence through Action: Confidence comes from taking action, even when you’re afraid. Start by setting small, achievable goals and gradually tackle bigger challenges. Each success will build your confidence.
4. Question Your Doubts: When you encounter negative self-talk, challenge these thoughts. Ask yourself whether they are based on facts or fears. Often, these doubts are rooted in fear of the unknown rather than reality.
5. Embrace Discomfort: Growth is uncomfortable. Accept that it’s okay to feel wobbly as you step into new roles or take on new challenges. This discomfort is a part of the evolution process.
>>>>> Identify the discomfort “red flags” in my most recent podcast episode <<<<<
6. Create a New Narrative: Rewrite the story you tell yourself. Replace thoughts like “I’m not ready” with ones that affirm your capabilities and potential. Understand that imposter syndrome often signals that you are on the verge of a significant breakthrough.
As you begin to implement these strategies, you’ll notice signs of progress:
Increased Confidence: You’ll start feeling more secure in your abilities.
Expanded Comfort Zone: What once felt intimidating will become more manageable.
Proactive Mindset: You’ll move from avoiding challenges to actively seeking them out.
Empowered Decision-Making: You’ll make choices based on your strengths, not your fears.
Moving Forward with Confidence
Don’t let these feelings hold you back any longer. Use these proven strategies to turn self-doubt into motivation and transform imposter syndrome into a catalyst for growth.
Remember, you have the power to rewrite your story. Every step you take, no matter how small, is a move towards overcoming imposter syndrome and embracing your full
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