Not the Time for Imposter Syndrome...

5 Ideas in 5 Minutes or less.

1. This Week’s Encouragement:

Recently, I was scrolling on LinkedIn, and I was stunned. Every other post seemed to be about imposter syndrome—personal stories, tips, and strategies. It burns my britches that we’re still feeding into this concept. If I had the time and resources, I’d campaign to have this phrase removed from our lexicon.

In light of everything happening in the world, now is not the time for imposter syndrome. We live in a time when individuals with questionable qualifications are confidently occupying leadership roles. If they’re operating without hesitation, we absolutely cannot afford to second-guess ourselves.

Imposter syndrome, while not a formal medical diagnosis, is a psychological pattern where individuals doubt their accomplishments and fear being exposed as frauds. I would like to shout my simplified belief from the mountain tops. This experience is simply a temporary COMMUNICATION GAP between your current reality and outdated beliefs about your abilities or worth.

Here’s the good news: Patterns can be broken, gaps can be closed, communication skills can be built, and perceptions can be reframed. Here are three ways to start closing your internal communication gap:

• Seek evidence. Challenge the narrative by asking, “What proof do I have that this belief is true?” Focus on concrete examples of your success and strengths.
• Reframe the thought. When you think, “I’m not qualified,” pause and ask, “What’s the affirmative version of this?” For example: “I am qualified, and I bring unique strengths to this opportunity.”
• Cultivate daily affirmations. Positive self-talk isn’t a reactionary tool; it’s a proactive habit. Start now so that confidence becomes second nature when it matters most.

If you experience it anytime this week, remember it’s a temporary gap that can be bridged with the right tools and mindset. By improving the way you communicate with yourself, you can transform doubt into action and hesitation into confidence.

The world needs more competent and confident voices—yours included.

2. Event Recommendation: Government Contract Prep Webinar with Linda M. on February 8th

Imposter syndrome has no place here—this is your time to show up prepared and confident. Let’s make 2025 the year your business lands that government contract!??

Stepping into government contracting can feel daunting—but let me remind you: you are qualified, and your business is capable of succeeding in this space. Confidence is built through preparation, and that’s exactly what this webinar is about.

This session is designed for small business owners and minority entrepreneurs ready to break into the government contracting world with the right tools, strategies, and mindset.

?? What You’ll Learn:

• ? The essential pre-work for funding and grants
• ? Certification programs at the local, state, federal, and corporate levels
• ? How to identify and leverage your NAICS codes
• ? Key tools like Acquisition.gov, USASpending.gov, and DSBS.gov

?? Date: February 8, 2025 ? Time: 7:30 PM Eastern

Limited Spots Available.

3. ?Scene & Heard:? CNBC Make It “Use this 5-word phrase to quit your job, but leave on good terms.”

A big thank you to Aditi Shrikant from CNBC Make It for featuring my insights on how to leave your job with professionalism and grace. It’s time to shelf that imposter syndrome and start thinking of yourself as a brand. Even when you’re transitioning out, you want your interactions to leave a lasting, positive impression.

Click to read the full story.

4. Quote:

“We need to reframe imposter syndrome as a natural response to growth rather than a sign of unworthiness.” — Dr. Valerie Young, author of The Secret Thoughts of Successful Women

5. Ask Keita:

Q. Dear Keita,

I’ve been given a major leadership opportunity at work, but I can’t shake the feeling that I don’t belong. I keep thinking I’m not qualified, and I’m terrified that everyone will find out I’m just faking it. How can I overcome this constant Imposter Syndrome?

Signed The Imposter.

A. Dear The Imposter,

First, let me say this: Congrats! You were chosen for this role because you have the skills, the experience, and the potential to succeed.

You are not faking it. You’re facing a new challenge that’s stretching you, which is exactly how growth happens. To help you combat these feelings, let's shift our communication:

1.????? Acknowledge the Thought: When that “I don’t belong” thought pops up, pause and ask, “Is this really true? What proof do I have that I’m unqualified?” You’ll likely find evidence that speaks to your qualifications.

2.????? Affirm Your Strengths: Write down your top strengths and past successes. Keep this list handy for when doubt creeps in.

3.????? Take Action: Confidence isn’t something you just feel—it’s something you build by doing. The more you lean into the role and take proactive steps, the more you'll see that you're more than capable.

If today’s reflections resonated with you, share them with someone who might need a reminder that confidence isn’t about being perfect—it’s about taking action, even when doubt creeps in. We all have moments of hesitation, but those moments don’t define us—they’re simply a signal to pause and refocus.

Remember, in a world where self-doubt is often amplified, resilience isn’t about ignoring imposter syndrome—it’s about recognizing it, reframing it, and choosing to move forward anyway. You have the power to rewrite your narrative and take that next step with confidence, no matter how small.

In light of everything going on, I encourage you to take action—whether it’s stepping into a new opportunity, supporting someone who needs it, or simply being kind to yourself. Every step counts. So let’s show up for each other, not from a place of perfection, but from a place of progress—one empowered step at a time

?With gratitude,

Keita – Your Favorite Success Bully