Battling Imposter Syndrome in Business: Trusting Outside Voices When You Can’t Trust Your Own

As business owners, we often find ourselves navigating an ocean of uncertainty. Some days, we feel on top of the world, handling everything thrown our way. Other days? Not so much. Instead of feeling like a capable leader, we’re stuck wrestling with imposter syndrome. It’s that sneaky voice in our head that says, “You’re not cut out for this,” or “How did you even get here?”

I’ve been there too—many times, in fact. We pour our hearts into our businesses, yet when we look around, it can feel like everyone else has it all figured out, while we’re barely holding it together. Here’s the thing: you’re probably doing far better than you think, and sometimes, it takes an outside perspective to help us see that.

When Self-Doubt Takes Over

Imposter syndrome is something I see a lot in the entrepreneurs I support. Whether you’re a seasoned business owner or just starting out, it can hit at any time. And it’s exhausting. You second-guess every decision, and suddenly, every small mistake feels like proof that you’re not good enough.

But here’s what I’ve learned (and I’m still reminding myself!): our own self-criticism isn’t always accurate. When you’re deep in the trenches of running your business, it’s easy to miss the wins and focus only on the struggles. That’s why a trusted outside voice—a mentor, a colleague, or even a close friend—can be a game-changer.

Leaning on Trusted Feedback

The next time you’re feeling overwhelmed by self-doubt, try reaching out to someone who knows you and your work well. It could be a quick chat or an encouraging email that reminds you of all the good you’re doing. They see the bigger picture and can offer insights that we can’t always see when we’re caught up in our own thoughts.

Here’s what I do when imposter syndrome kicks in:

Ask for Real Feedback: I’ve found that proactively seeking feedback helps ground me. Whether it’s a client testimonial or a casual conversation with a business buddy, hearing genuine insights about my work helps cut through the noise of self-doubt.

Track the Wins: I keep a simple note on my phone where I jot down wins—big and small. It’s a great reality check when I start doubting myself, and it helps me see the progress I might otherwise forget.

Be Open About It: I’ve learned that talking about imposter syndrome with others can be freeing. When we admit we’re struggling, it often opens the door for others to share their own experiences. You’re not alone in feeling this way.

Remember: You’re Doing Better Than You Think

If no one’s told you today: You’re doing a great job. You’ve overcome challenges, made tough decisions, and continued to show up even when it’s hard. When you can’t trust your own inner critic, lean on the people who see your value clearly.

And if you ever want to chat about how a bit of administrative support can lighten your load, I’m here for you. We can work together to get those tasks off your plate and give you the space to focus on what you do best.