Facing and overcoming the imposter at your next level

So often we talk about achieving that next big thing for us, whatever that is. We talk about working up the nerve to get to that “big thing”, but what about when we’re there? Does imposter syndrome creep up during the “big thing” such that you know you’re at that next level, yet you start questioning if you should be?

It's my perspective that that’s when imposter syndrome can show up.

You might have no fears doing a book signing for a couple of hours at your local bookstore where you’re on a first name basis with the owner and that person offered to have you there. But the idea of a pitching Barnes and Noble or doing an all day expo is terrifying.

Maybe speaking informally to an audience, like a podcast interview, one-on-one at your table or booth, or even on a conference panel, doesn’t feel intimidating. But the idea of speaking to a full room or multi-screen virtual event makes your heart race.

We might even ask ourselves similar questions, like:

• Who are you to speak to this group or guest on this podcast or earn six figure monthly royalties?
• Who are you to get visible with your catalog of work?
• Who are you to share your message?
• Will anyone care?
• Will I feel like a fool if it doesn’t work out like I had hoped?

But that’s the thing about imposter syndrome, you wouldn’t be facing this challenge - be at this level -  if you weren’t ready for your next level.

It’s showing up because you are the right person, and it’s the right time, regardless of the outcome.

But that doesn’t mean it’s easy to overcome.

Showing up and facing imposter syndrome

It’s one thing to have thought about this new opportunity, but it’s a whole new thing to actually experience it and know deep down, believe deep down, that you’ve got this, regardless how it turns out. And like my business strategist and coach says “you can’t say the wrong thing to the right person and you can’t say the right thing to the wrong person.” What this means to me is that there are people who will care and want to be part of your world because of the value you add to theirs. This means that when you speak from your heart to your right people, they know it, and even if they disagree, they still respect you for the differences and want to stay in your world.

New Levels, New Truths

The thing about new levels is that they present new truths. Things that worked for you in the beginning may no longer be true for you now, and that it is more than OK. It’s also absolutely spot on for you to accept that new truth that you are an award-winning author or you are an exceptional speaker or you are whatever that is because that is now part of your experience. All of those things have shaped you to get you to this new level, even if it feels beyond your reach. You grew out of your experiences because in part of the fact that you faced your fear. Doing those things out of your comfort zone, reaching for and moving into your new level create new beliefs and truths for you.

Taking those steps to face imposter syndrome and move past it so that you bounce back faster the next time it presents itself (because it will) is something you don’t have to do alone. Strategic support from the right person who not only gets you, but wants you to succeed as much as you do can propel you forward in ways doing it alone won’t.

Want to go deeper? 

I believe if the story came to you, it must come through you to share. You've already done the brave work of writing and publishing. Now it's time to show up powerfully as the thought leader you are, so your message reaches the people who need it most. Because when visibility opportunities arrive — a book signing, a podcast invitation, a speaking engagement — it's not only about the writing anymore. It's about you, fully showing up, as the person behind the work and message. 

Author Stylist 

Author Stylist Guide: Own Your Greatness, Get Visible, and Share Your Message is for that moment. Not how to get more opportunities — how to make the most of the ones that come to you, so you show up with confidence, shine in the room, and let your book and message reach the people who actually need them. You already have the courage and the gifts that got you here. This book helps you use them. https://www.jennifermilius.com/books 

Want to go beyond the book and let your message reach the people who need it most without downplaying your authority or hiding your power? The Author Stylist Services and Resources will help you show up authentically as the expert you are, and when you do there's a joy and confidence that radiates. That's what I help you tap into - so your voice, your message, and your work can make the impact they're meant to make. Author Stylist Services and Resources: https://www.jennifermilius.com/stylist