Stop Overthinking: How to Be Your Authentic Self on LinkedIn

Hey there peeps

It's Sharon, your no-nonsense Irish LinkedIn Mindset and Brand Strategist.

Welcome to my first LinkedIn Newsletter!

This week I want to dive deep into a topic that I know many of you struggle with - overthinking and the fear of judgment on LinkedIn.

Let’s tackle this head-on and find your authentic voice.

The Common Fear of Judgment

We’ve all been there. You sit down to write a LinkedIn post, only to be paralyzed by thoughts like, "What will people think?" "Will they judge me?" "What if I come across as a total dick?" This fear of judgment is incredibly common and can be a massive block.

Why do we feel this way?

Well, it's human nature to seek approval and avoid criticism. We want to be liked and respected, especially in professional settings. But when this fear starts controlling our actions, it prevents us from showing up as our true selves.

My Story: From Overthinking to Authentic Posting

Let me take you back a few years. I was terrified of posting on LinkedIn and particularly of engaging on posts. I would spend hours perfecting a post, only to delete it because I was scared of looking like a total twat.

The breakthrough came when I decided to share a raw, honest story about my journey of becoming a business owner at 51!

Guess what happened?

The post resonated with so many people. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive. That experience was a game-changer for me.

It taught me that authenticity trumps perfection. People connect with real stories and genuine emotions.

The more I let go of the need to be perfect, the more I saw engagement and built meaningful connections.

It was incredibly liberating, and it can be for you too.

Practical Tips to Start Posting Confidently

Now I want to help you break free from overthinking and start posting confidently on LinkedIn. Here are some practical tips:

1. Embrace Imperfection: Remember your posts don't have to be perfect - we are not perfect! Focus on sharing your message, even if it’s not polished. Authenticity is far more engaging and relatable.
2. Start Small: If a long post feels intimidating, begin with a simple update or comment on someone else’s post. This can help you ease into posting more regularly.
3. Share Your Story: Personal stories are powerful. Share your experiences, struggles, and triumphs. Your unique journey can inspire and connect with others.
4. Engage with Others: Build your confidence by engaging with your network. Comment, like, and share posts that resonate with you. This interaction not only boosts your visibility but also builds relationships.
5. Set a Posting Schedule: Consistency is key to building a presence. Decide on a posting schedule that works for you, whether it's once a week or twice a month. Stick to it, and you’ll see progress over time.

Conclusion

LinkedIn is a platform for connection and relationship-building. By being your authentic self, you not only make a genuine impact but also attract the right kind of connections.

So, stop overthinking.

Be yourself.

Share your journey.

And watch how people respond to your authenticity.

If you found these tips helpful, let’s continue the conversation! Share your thoughts, experiences, or any questions you have in the comments. I’m here to support you on this journey.

PS Why not download my latest PDF to help you get results on LinkedIn - https://sharonmurray.systeme.io/leanintolinkedin