In business, we often think we need to project total certainty for people to trust us and buy from us.
We also believe we must know all the answers for our team to respect us.
Neither of these are true.
Yet, because we believe them, we sometimes feel inauthentic and start doubting ourselves.
That doubt—the hidden worry that people might “find out”—holds you back. It’s not your education, bank account, or market that limits you. It’s self-doubt.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Everyone feels that way sometimes.
- Feelings aren’t facts. Doubt comes from thoughts like thinking you must be certain and know all the answers.
Remind yourself you always do your best given the situation.
Maybe you’re distracted because your kid’s in trouble at school, or you’re tired because your partner is sick. That’s life.
You can still feel good about doing your best. And that’s enough.
You can feel confident without feeling certain. Confidence comes from within.
Confident leadership means being comfortable with uncertainty because you trust your ability to get things done through others.
You don’t have to know all the answers. You just have to ask the right questions.
Believe in your team and your ability to set priorities, allocate resources, and evaluate results.
You’re here to express your zone of genius—to demonstrate your unique abilities, not to be perfect.
Be confident being your authentic self.
Authenticity in business starts with showing the real you. Say what you mean. Worry less about appearances. Be willing to say, “I don’t know,” and ask for help.
Ditch perfection. It’s a barrier to authenticity because it’s not real.
We’re all having a temporary human experience.
The greatest gift you can give the world and other people is your true self.