If You’ve Been Navigating Self-Doubt Lately…
Whether it’s wondering if you belong in the room, hesitating to speak up, or downplaying your contributions—even when you’ve done the work—you’re not alone.
Self-doubt shows up in all kinds of ways.
Sometimes it whispers. Sometimes it shouts.
Sometimes it’s so familiar we barely notice it’s there.
By Sophie Makonnen
Whether it’s wondering if you belong in the room, hesitating to speak up, or downplaying your contributions—even when you’ve done the work—you’re not alone.
Self-doubt shows up in all kinds of ways.
Sometimes it whispers. Sometimes it shouts.
Sometimes it’s so familiar we barely notice it’s there.
This week, I’ve pulled together three reflections that speak to different parts of that experience. Each one offers a different way in—whether you’re trying to rebuild confidence, speak more openly about your work, or stop waiting to feel “ready” before you act.
Here’s the playlist:
Confidence: The Career Skill You Can’t Afford to Ignore
Confidence is often treated as a nice-to-have, but it's essential for emerging leaders. This blog explores the difference between a lack of confidence, a situational skill-based hesitation and impostor feelings, which run deeper and often persist even in the face of success.
Drawing on research and reflections from thought leaders like Brittany Packnett Cunningham, Sally Helgesen, and Dr. Valerie Young, the piece sheds light on how many professionals fall into the trap of believing that great work should speak for itself. But it rarely does. Competence opens the door, and confidence gets you heard.
Yet the path isn’t always linear. Confidence can falter in moments of risk, change, or visibility. And impostor feelings—those lingering doubts about whether you truly belong—can show up even when you’re more than qualified…..
Success Isn’t a Secret. Why Are You Hiding It?
In many purpose-driven sectors, professionals often hesitate to make their contributions visible. This blog explores the tension between humility and recognition, and why visibility isn’t about ego—it’s about ensuring your work gets the attention it deserves.
Confidence is necessary, but it’s not enough. Without visibility, even excellent work can be overlooked. While some are lucky to have sponsors who advocate for them, most professionals must learn to advocate for themselves. That means speaking up, documenting wins, and learning to share achievements without feeling like you're bragging.
Drawing from thought leaders like Sally Helgesen and Peggy Klaus, the blog highlights the internal and cultural barriers that hold people back, from fear of appearing boastful to believing that hard work should speak for itself. But staying silent has a cost: missed promotions, sidelined ideas, and the perception that you’re not ready for leadership.
The good news? Visibility can be cultivated…..
Speak Up. Take Space. Lead Now.
Professionals, especially those earlier in their careers, often hesitate to speak up, believing they need more experience or confidence first. However, the idea that we must feel “ready” before contributing is a myth that can quietly stall our growth. Leadership doesn’t begin when we feel flawless—it begins when we engage, ask questions, and contribute, even if our voice shakes.
This article challenges the belief that seniority is the sole marker of credibility. It reminds us that fresh perspectives, critical questions, and lived experience are equally valuable. The fear of judgment or not being “expert enough” can keep us quiet, but silence doesn’t build visibility or influence. Contribution does. Visibility isn’t a reward; it’s part of how others begin to see your leadership in motion.
Your contribution matters. You don’t need to wait for permission to use your voice.
See you next Sunday,
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