Episode Summary
In this episode of Mondays with Mike, host Mike Staver addresses a common and personal question: how do you deal with imposter syndrome, whether in yourself or when helping others through it?
Drawing on his own experiences and insights as a coach, Mike explores the reality that imposter syndrome is a widespread and natural feeling—even for seasoned professionals. He candidly admits to sometimes feeling like an imposter himself, especially on tough days. Mike emphasizes that the first step is to normalize the experience, accepting that everyone feels like an imposter occasionally. He goes on to distinguish between genuine lack of experience (which truly is a form of imposture) and the unfounded self-doubt many people experience, stressing the importance of being honest about your credentials. For those struggling, Mike recommends either getting the necessary training or stepping away from areas where you lack expertise. If feelings of inadequacy are constant, he advises seeking coaching or counseling to build self-confidence.
In essence, Mike encourages listeners to be honest about their expertise, normalize self-doubt, and take practical steps—be it through skill development or professional support—to move through imposter syndrome.
Key Takeaways
- Imposter syndrome is common—everyone experiences it from time to time, and it should be normalized rather than ignored.
- Maintain perspective by reflecting honestly on your actual experience and credentials; don’t represent yourself as an expert in areas where you lack real expertise.
- If you lack skill or knowledge, either invest in developing your expertise or avoid teaching or coaching in that domain.
- Persistent, severe imposter feelings could indicate a deeper confidence issue that might require professional help.
- Normalizing imposter syndrome and addressing skill gaps are the keys to moving past it.
Notable Quotes
- “We all have those moments, right? We all have those moments. I have them, you have them. Everybody has them.”
- “Normalize it. Accept the fact that we all feel it from time to time.”
- “If you are representing yourself as an expert on any topic and you haven’t in some way done that thing, then probably you should do it.”
- “If it’s constant, then that’s a self-confidence issue and you probably need to seek counseling or a good coach to get over it.”
Mike Staver is the CEO and Founder of The Staver Group, a proven leadership development firm dedicated to improving organizational performance by closing the gap between intentions and execution. To learn more about working with Mike and The Staver Group, email info@mikestaver.com.
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