Overcoming Impostor Syndrome as a New Speaker

This article is authored by VIP Stand Out Online Member Wendi McNeill, Charli Jane Speakers

Stepping into the world of public speaking can sometimes bring a sneaky feeling called ‘impostor syndrome.’ It’s that voice in your head saying you’re not good enough or you don’t belong on stage. But guess what? Many great speakers have felt this way at some point. The good news is you can overcome it and shine as the speaker you’re meant to be.

Understanding Impostor Syndrome Impostor syndrome often strikes when we’re stepping out of our comfort zones. It’s a mix of self-doubt and fear of being ‘exposed’ as a fraud, even though it’s not true. Recognizing this feeling is the first step in overcoming it.

Celebrate Your Successes

Remember, you were chosen to speak for a reason. Reflect on your achievements, big and small. Every successful speech, every positive feedback, and even the courage to step on stage are victories against impostor syndrome.

Embrace Continuous Learning

No speaker knows everything, and that’s okay. Embrace the journey of learning and growing. Attend workshops, read books, and learn from other speakers. This continuous improvement reinforces your confidence and expertise.

Connect with Fellow Speakers

You’re not alone in this journey. Connect with other speakers, especially those who’ve been in your shoes. Share your feelings and experiences. Often, you’ll find they’ve faced similar challenges and can offer invaluable advice and support.

Reframe Negative Thoughts

When doubts creep in, challenge them. Turn negative thoughts into positive affirmations. For example, replace “I might mess up” with “I’m prepared and capable.”

The Power of Preparation

One of the best ways to combat impostor syndrome is thorough preparation. Know your topic well, practice your speech, and anticipate questions. Being well-prepared boosts your confidence and reduces anxiety.

Immediate Action Step: Create an Achievement Log

Right now, start an achievement log. Write down all your accomplishments related to public speaking, no matter how small. Include positive feedback, moments you felt proud, and times you improved. Review this log whenever you feel impostor syndrome creeping in. It will remind you of your capabilities and progress.

Overcoming impostor syndrome as a new speaker is a journey of self-acceptance and growth. It’s about recognizing your worth, continuously improving, and turning self-doubt into self-empowerment. By celebrating your successes and maintaining an achievement log, you can silence the impostor within and embrace your true potential as a speaker.

Remember, every great speaker starts somewhere, and with perseverance, you, too, can find your confident voice and make a lasting impact. We have many helpful speaking resources on the Charli Jane website (CharliJane.com) and a network of 16,500+ fellow speakers to bounce ideas off of in our Breakthrough Public Speakers group. https://www.facebook.com/groups/breakthroughpublicspeakers