The Expert Dilemma: More "How" Than "Can You"

Have you ever found yourself stuck in the expert dilemma? You know, the one where you have the knowledge, the skills, and the experience, but instead of people asking you to do the job, they keep asking you how to do it.

It’s flattering at first. People recognize your expertise, they value your opinion. But after a while, it starts to get frustrating. You’re ready to lead, ready to execute, but instead, you’re constantly advising.

Imagine being a chef, renowned for your culinary skills, but instead of cooking, you spend most of your time teaching others how to make your signature dishes. Sure, it's nice to share your secrets, but wouldn't you rather be in the kitchen, creating those masterpieces yourself?

This is the expert dilemma. It’s the fine line between being a mentor and being a doer. It’s the challenge of transforming those "how do you do it?" questions into "can you do it for us?" opportunities.

So, how do you shift the focus? How do you turn your advisory role into an execution role?

First, show your value through action. Talk about your successes, highlight the impact of your work. Don’t just share the process; share the results. When people see what you’ve accomplished, they’ll be more inclined to ask you to take the reins.

Second, be proactive in sharing your achievements. Use your platforms to showcase not just your expertise but your ability to deliver. Whether it’s through social media, blogs, or industry events, make sure your narrative includes examples of your direct contributions.

Third, it’s okay to set boundaries. It’s perfectly fine to say, "I can do this for you." Sometimes, people need a gentle reminder that your skills are best utilized in action, not just in advisory capacities.

In the end, it’s about taking control of your narrative. You have the expertise, now it's time to turn advice into action. By positioning yourself as a leader who can deliver, you’ll find more opportunities to do just that.

So, the next time you find yourself facing the expert dilemma, remember: your value is in doing, not just in knowing. Let your expertise shine through your actions, and watch as those "how" questions turn into "can you" opportunities.

Embrace the challenge, lead with confidence, and turn your knowledge into impact. It’s time to step out of the advisory role and into the driver’s seat.