This Is Why You Feel Like a Fraud
Summary
- I often talk to entrepreneurs about imposter syndrome, and my advice is simple: stop lying.
- I had a conversation with an agency owner who had 150 B2B clients but admitted he didn't know how to run a business.
- He felt like a fraud because he didn't tell clients he only knew how to get customers, not run a business.
- I told him it would be more compelling to state the truth: "I had a big agency but didn't know how to operate it."
- You won't feel like an imposter if you just state the facts and tell the truth.
- Imposter syndrome creeps in when you claim something that hasn't happened yet or pretend something happened when it didn't.
Video
How To Take Action
Implementation Strategies for Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
Be Transparent
I would suggest implementing radical transparency in your business and personal growth journey. If you're an entrepreneur, admit what you know and don't know. If you're selling a service but lack certain skills, be honest with clients. Transparency builds trust and eliminates the fear of being "found out."
- Action Step: When marketing your services, clearly state your expertise and areas where you are still growing.
Acknowledge Your Strengths and Weaknesses
A good way of doing this is by recognizing and owning both your strengths and weaknesses. This will not only help you feel more authentic but also allow you to focus on improving.
- Action Step: Make a list of your strengths and weaknesses. Share this openly with your team or clients to set proper expectations.
Communicate Honestly
Honesty is key in combating imposter syndrome. Instead of pretending you're more experienced or accomplished than you are, communicate your real journey and experience levels.
- Action Step: When discussing your experiences, make sure to include both your successes and your learning points.
Create Authentic Content
If you're in content creation or marketing, stop trying to project an image of perfection. Real stories are compelling; people connect more with authenticity.
- Action Step: Share case studies or personal anecdotes that highlight not just your wins but also your challenges and how you overcame them.
Build Incrementally
You don't need to claim future successes. Focus on what you have accomplished so far and build from there. This incremental approach makes your goals feel more attainable.
- Action Step: Set smaller, achievable milestones rather than focusing on big, distant goals. Track and celebrate each milestone to build confidence.
Seek Feedback
A good way of ensuring you are on the right track is by asking for feedback from clients, mentors, or peers. This keeps you grounded and helps you identify areas for improvement.
- Action Step: Implement a regular feedback loop, whether through surveys, direct conversations, or performance reviews.
By focusing on these strategies, you'll not only feel more genuine but also build stronger trust with those you interact with. Real success comes from being real.
