I have a confession to make. Over the years, I’ve struggled on and off with Imposter Syndrome. It often shows up as that nagging voice in my head saying, “You’re not qualified enough. It won’t work. You’re going to fail, and everyone will realize you don’t know what you’re doing.”
I’ve come to realize that I’m not alone. In fact, 70% of people will experience at least one episode of Imposter Syndrome in their lives. Some reputable names have admitted to dealing with this, including Michelle Obama, Wolfgang Puck, Tom Hanks, and even Moses. Yes, Moses from the Bible.
During one of those moments, my husband pointed me to the story of Moses in Exodus 3 and 4. I’ve read it hundreds of times, but this time it resonated differently. I saw clearly that Moses himself was dealing with Imposter Syndrome, which prevented him from saying yes to God’s call. Yet, his story holds profound lessons for combating Imposter Syndrome.
The Calling & The Vision
God called Moses for a leadership mission. Moses didn’t choose it for himself, but God doesn’t make mistakes. He called Moses because He knew he could fulfill the task. He knew what He had placed in Moses. Along with the calling, God also gave Moses a vision and step-by-step instructions. This vision was to keep him for the long journey ahead.
Lesson: As a small business owner, reflect on whether you believe God has called you to your leadership position. If He has, let your confidence rest in the fact that He doesn’t make mistakes. He knows you are up to the task. You can do it. This perspective can help silence the inner critic that fuels Imposter Syndrome.
Consider the process of discerning your calling. Often, our purpose is revealed through a combination of passion, skills, and opportunities. Reflecting on moments when you felt deeply engaged and fulfilled can provide clues to your calling. Journaling about these experiences and seeking feedback from trusted friends or mentors can also clarify your purpose.
Also, have a clear vision for your business. A strong vision provides direction and motivation, especially during tough times. It reminds you of your ultimate goals and the impact you want to make. A compelling vision can keep you grounded when Imposter Syndrome tries to derail you.
Develop a vision statement for your business that articulates your goals and aspirations. Share this vision with your team regularly to ensure alignment and motivation. Revisit and revise your vision as needed to reflect changes in the market or your business.
Never Alone
Repeatedly in the chapter, God responds to Moses’ objections by assuring him that He will be with him. God’s presence was all that Moses needed. Knowing the Almighty God was by his side, providing instructions at every turn, should bring comfort to him.
Lesson: Entrepreneurship can be a lonely journey, magnifying feelings of Imposter Syndrome. But if God has called you to business, He will not leave you alone. He pledges to walk with you, to be your business partner. Whatever weaknesses you feel you have, His strength is made perfect in your weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). This reassurance can help you push through moments of self-doubt.
Building a spiritual practice can reinforce this sense of divine partnership. Regular prayer, meditation, and reading the Word, can strengthen your awareness of God’s presence in your business endeavors. Creating a physical reminder, like a vision board or a symbolic object on your desk, can also help you feel connected to your faith throughout the day.
Reluctance and Self-Doubt
When God called Moses, he responded with hesitation and self-doubt, asking, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?” (Exodus 3:11). It’s normal to question your abilities and feel reluctant. Recognize self-doubt but don’t let it paralyze you. Your experiences and unique perspective are valuable. Acknowledging and addressing your doubts can help you move forward with confidence.
Lesson: Understand the root causes of your self-doubt. It could stem from past failures, societal expectations, or personal insecurities. By identifying these sources, you can develop strategies to counteract them. For example, cognitive-behavioral techniques such as challenging negative thoughts and replacing them with biblical affirmations can be effective.
You Have All You Need
I love God’s response to Moses in Exodus 4:1, as he recites all his “yeah, buts.” God simply asks him, “What is that in your hand?” He then uses the rod Moses had been using for the past 40 years to tend sheep as one of the pivotal tools to achieve the mission. Moses didn’t think much of the rod; it was no big deal.
Lesson: There are things God has placed in you and has been developing in you. You may not notice them because the fear of the mission eclipses them. But God is asking you to take another look. He has already equipped you with all you need for this assignment. Recognizing your own resources and strengths can diminish feelings of inadequacy. Here’s a simple exercise to connect you with what you have in your hand:
Personal Inventory Exercise:
- List Your Strengths: Write down at least five strengths or skills you possess. Consider both hard skills (like accounting or marketing) and soft skills (like communication or empathy).
- Identify Past Successes: Recall and list three instances where you achieved something significant, whether in your business or personal life.
- Recognize Your Unique Attributes: What makes you unique? It could be your background, experiences, or perspective.
- Gather Feedback: Ask colleagues, friends, or mentors to share what they see as your strengths and talents.
- Reflect and Affirm: Review your lists regularly and affirm yourself by acknowledging these strengths and achievements.
Incorporate a regular review of your accomplishments into your routine. Set aside time monthly or quarterly to update your inventory, celebrate your progress, and set new goals. This practice not only boosts confidence but also helps you stay focused on your strengths.
Support Systems
God provided Aaron, Moses’ brother, to assist him (Exodus 4:14-16). Aaron became Moses’ spokesperson and helped him carry out God’s plan.
Lesson: Seek support and collaborate with others. Building a support system of trusted advisors, mentors, and team members can help you overcome feelings of inadequacy and bolster your confidence. Knowing you have support can mitigate feelings of isolation and self-doubt.
Strategies for Building a Support Network:
- Join Professional Groups: Become a member of industry-specific organizations or local business groups. These communities can provide networking opportunities, resources, and support.
- Find a Mentor: Seek out a mentor who has experience in your field. A mentor can offer guidance, support, and valuable insights.
- Build a Peer Network: Connect with other small business owners or professionals. Share experiences, challenges, and successes to learn from one another.
- Leverage Social Media: Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your industry. Participate in discussions and forums to expand your network.
- Attend Workshops and Conferences: Participate in events related to your industry to meet like-minded individuals and expand your professional circle.
Regularly nurturing your network is crucial. Schedule regular check-ins with your mentors, attend networking events, and engage actively in online communities. Offering help to others in your network can also strengthen these relationships and build a reciprocal support system.
Overcoming Setbacks
Moses faced numerous setbacks, including resistance from Pharaoh, complaints from the Israelites, and his own moments of frustration. Despite these challenges, he persevered.
Lesson: Setbacks are inevitable in business. Use them as learning experiences rather than reasons to give up. Resilience and perseverance are key to overcoming obstacles and achieving success. Understanding that setbacks are part of the journey can help reduce feelings of being an imposter when things go wrong.
Techniques for Building Resilience:
- Stay Positive: Focus on positive outcomes and maintain a hopeful outlook. Optimism can help you navigate through challenges.
- Practice Self-Care: Take care of your physical and mental health. Exercise, healthy eating, and sufficient rest are crucial for resilience.
- Learn from Failures: Treat failures as learning opportunities. Analyze what went wrong and how you can improve.
- Set Realistic Goals: Break down your goals into manageable steps. Achieving smaller milestones can boost your confidence.
- Stay Connected: Lean on your support network during tough times. Sharing your struggles with others can provide comfort and new perspectives.
- Scriptural Reflection: Incorporate regular reflection on Bible verses that encourage resilience and perseverance. For example, James 1:2-4 says, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything
Develop a resilience plan that includes specific strategies you will use to cope with stress and setbacks. This could include mindfulness practices, regular physical activity, or setting aside time for hobbies and relaxation.
Here’s the Bottom Line
Often, we struggle with Imposter Syndrome because we look to ourselves rather than to the one who has given us our mission and mandate. We trust what we can do rather than what He can do through us. By shifting your perspective from looking at yourself, you will see that you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you (Philippians 4:13).
Imposter Syndrome is a common experience, but it doesn’t have to define your journey. By drawing strength from your faith, seeking support, and recognizing your unique gifts, you can overcome self-doubt and lead with confidence. Remember, you are called, equipped, and never alone.
Take a moment today to reflect on your calling, embrace your unique strengths, and reach out for the support you need. Your journey as a leader is divinely orchestrated. Step into your role with the assurance that you are exactly where you need to be, doing exactly what you are meant to do. Trust in your calling and move forward with unwavering confidence.