How can you build confidence and self-esteem as a founder to overcome imposter syndrome?

Documenting key milestones or moments will help you reflect back on the journey you have had and acknowledge your progress. This could be in any form, be it a journal, be it photographs you take, social media posts you create, reflecting on your journey. It is one of the ways you can build self esteem on this challenging, but rewarding journey as a founder.

Since I started working when I was 23, I have worked for the family company and been very successful. However, I suffered imposter syndrome. I did not value my achievements as my insecurities made me need external approval. I had a boss who bullied me, a family member so I left the company. I did not want to go through that horrible situation, so I decided to do something about it. I started going to therapy where I learnt a lot about myself, and I changed 180o in my professional career. I was more confident, less entitled, and humble but assertive. I was promoted twice in one year. Now I recognise my achievements but mainly the small ones, as many small ones compound. I still doubt myself but I embrace it and will go away.

Depending on your state of mind coming up with things you’ve accomplished may feel like a challenge. So start with anything that comes to mind no matter how silly it may seem. Go back to that race you won at your primary school sports day or placing at the middle school science fair. It may seem trivial in the moment but once your brain starts searching for your wins you will come up with more. Once you have your list consider that these weren’t necessarily things you knew exactly how to do at the time and coming out on top wasn’t guaranteed. Maybe it took a little extra research or lots of practice but you figured it out and came through it successfully. So trust yourself and enjoy the process.

Develop ' I can do it mentality. Quite complaining and fear. Be humble. Ask Questions Listen to other people's ideas Be honest

Talking to fellow founders in this journey will help you understand that you are not alone. Everyone has had their struggles, and have worked hard to be where they are today. We often focus on external achievements of our peers, but by understanding their journeys and experiences, you can gather moral support. Spending a lot of time with your team and taking their verbal, non-verbal cues also helps. Verbal cues could include how they feel they have evolved as individuals in the last few years, non-verbal cues could include how they handle stakeholders, how their lifestyle has changed and improved. These will help you stay more connected to your journey, where you take some credit for building an environment which facilitated this.

Surround yourself with people who are good listeners and happy to give you honest feedback. These people may not be in your current circle - so get out there and find the people you need! Network, learn some peoples' stories, and find the ones who can mentor you on your journey.

One thing I've found helpful is to inventory my skill set and the intangibles I bring to the table. People know what they value about you - and are generally happy to share those things with you. In fact, they may have already in the form of endorsements or testimonials. If you take a look at these, you'll most likely find that many people value the same things about you. I always advise my coaching clients to put those qualities on every day, just like you put on a suit or outfit that makes you feel great.

I have been writing a journal since 10 years ago. I Write down negative thoughts once it's out of my mind I stop thinking about them. When faced with a complex task I check my journal and find similar tasks. Journaling has made me a Better Entrepreneur and Leader. Journaling helps me organize thoughts, reflect, and spark creativity. It's my way to clarify and act on my ideas and become more self-aware. Is it time-consuming? Tomorrow morning, take out a sheet of paper and answer the following questions before you start your day: What was something awesome about yesterday? What was something that could have been improved yesterday? What is something that you are thankful for today? What would make today great? it will take you 15 min. try it

Physical and emotional well-being. For me, one without the other doesn't work. Romans said: Mens sana in corpore sano "a healthy mind in a healthy body." I find gratitude makes me fulfilled. In terms of habits for me the most important is sleep. Sleep is essential for me to recharge and be at my top game. When I don't get enough sleep, I struggle to concentrate, my thinking gets sluggish, my reactions slow down, and my mood swings. On weekends I disconnect, meet friends or just chill out

Even when things are going great - learning, seeking feedback and growing through failure and success is a never-ending process. Act like it! ;)

Two of my startups failed. I was ambivalent. On the one hand, no one likes to fail, but on the other hand, I had very clear feelings and takeaways 1) You have learnt new skills, 2) met new people, 3) Found the journey super enjoyable 4) I am a better professional and 5) learn not to take things to seriously 6) Whatever you do, give it your all, and enjoy it. I am by nature, a curious person. I enjoy learning new things and, of course, skills I need for new assignments, but I also like design, and I study copyrighting. It turns out now that in my new business design, copyrighting, and content creation are fundamental. Steve Jobs said “You can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards.

I have been a Founder, Consultant and Investor, and the company is only as healthy as the funder. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness, so please don't hesitate to ask. It is a journey you do not have to take alone. Reach out to your network because someone has gone through what you are going through or will be going through.

Oh my, how much we question ourselves per day! I wish I could hire someone to poke me during the day to tell me "Oh yes, you deserve what you have, you worked real & hard for it!" Unfortunately, inner voice is not that heard, nor loud enough, most of the time. Imposter syndrome is one of the biggest challenges we face. Any time you feel distressed, questioning what you have & where you have got to, pause a sec & ask: How much effort have I put into this? How long did it take me to get where I stand? What have I done this week (even the tiniest thing) that I feel proud of? What was the week's biggest win/delivery? Also, speak up to ones who understand you & your journey. Their words will let you see another picture. Hope this helps!

We are constantly evolving in every sense. Physically, emotionally, professionally, spiritually etc. Imposter syndrome is a feeling of not being good enough. But if you consider that everyone is constantly on their own journey of improving, there is no finish line. There is no time when you won't have some aspect of imposter syndrome. Even if you are "the best" by some standard definition or quantifiable metric you still have yourself to compete against. That is how people at the top get there in the first place. They are doing it for themselves. Especially in early stage startup there will always be a sense of, who am I to run this business? But if you've made it to that stage then keep going and the knowledge will come.