035 I From Self-Doubt to Confidence: Tackling Imposter Syndrome When You’re New

  Have you ever had a good idea in a meeting and talked yourself out of saying it before anyone could respond? Do you ever feel like you're one question away from being "found out"? Have you ever over-prepared, over-explained, and still felt like it wasn't enough? Imposter syndrome isn't a confidence problem — it's a protection strategy. In this episode we use our communication framework to understand what's really happening and how to show up anyway. Name your goal — credible presence, not perfection See what you're doing — over-preparing, staying quiet, adding disclaimers are all information Name your worries — "I'll sound inexperienced" / "They'll realize they made a mistake" Identify hidden commitments — protecting your reputation, avoiding early mistakes Test your assumptions — "Competent people don't hesitate" feels true but it's not Four experiments to try: Speak in drafts: "I'm still thinking this through, but one idea might be…" Ask strategic questions Drop the apology before your question Name your learning without disqualifying yourself Key reminder: Confidence is built through action — not certainty. This week, notice one moment imposter syndrome shows up. Identify the worry, the hidden commitment, and the assumption underneath it. Then choose one small experiment and speak once before you talk yourself out of it. Communicate Connect Thrive exists to help you move from discomfort to insight to confident visibility — and this episode is that formula in action. Connect with us! Instagram: @communicationskillsforwomen Website: communicateconnectthrive.com Email: [email protected] Until next time — speak clearly and listen bravely.