Imposters Everywhere!

When I landed my very first paying coaching client, I was excited beyond belief....until about an hour prior to our session. Then all the fears set in - "Who am I to help this guy build his business? What do I know that he doesn't already know? What if he asks for his money back!? Yikes," I thought, "I'm an IMPOSTER!!!"

Luckily, I came to my senses and realized that isn't true. I got my fears under control and the session went well, but - wow - I really wasn't prepared for this level of self-doubt. Do you ever feel like you're going to be "found out"? Like people think you know more than you really do know? Well, join the ranks of millions.

I've done a little research on the topic and, guess what? It even has a name. That's right, so many people experience this fear that it's got the perfect name: The Imposter Syndrome.

Even top-level, powerful executives experience The Imposter Syndrome. The experts who appear to be as cool as a cucumber and have the answer at their fingertips feel the flutter of disbelief when they are called in to consult or advise on the latest dilemma. . Moms and Dads wonder "who in the world am I to make these decisions for this little person?" but on the outside, they are the expert on what's best for their child. Women, especially suffer from forms of The Imposter Syndrome, wondering if their choice of words will sound right or if their decisions will be accepted as sound.

So, the next time you wonder how you qualify to do the job or reach for your dreams, know that you're not alone. At one time or another we all wonder how these responsibilities have found their way to our plate and how in the world we're going to "fake it till we make it" without being found out. But let's get real...you are NOT faking it. Take inventory of all the talent, knowledge, and wisdom that you DO bring to the table. Notice how often those around you ask for your input and advice. Give them some credit! Would they ask if they didn't consider you the authority?

Have you had an experience that could be described as a form of this epidemic syndrome? You're safe here - why not share? It will make us all feel more human.