Stop Overthinking—How to Build Confidence and Take Action

The Fear of Not Being "Qualified”

Have you ever felt like you’re just one certification, one degree, or one more year of experience away from being "qualified" to do the work you actually want to do?

You're not alone.

I recently had a conversation with someone transitioning into a new career. He’s passionate, driven, and already making a difference. And yet, he was struggling with something I hear all the time: imposter syndrome.

His words? "I don’t have a lot of experience doing this. Maybe I should work for someone else first. Maybe I need some kind of official certification. Maybe I’m not qualified."

Sound familiar?

When Did We Start Believing We Need Permission?

I told him a story about a rehabilitation program that helps former inmates re-enter society. Their first task? Folding napkins and setting tables. The second day? Teaching someone else how to fold napkins and set tables.

Their qualifications? One day of experience.

It’s a simple but powerful lesson. You don’t need years of credentials to help someone take their next step—you just need to be one step ahead and willing to serve.

In the movie Catch Me If You Can, Frank Abagnale Jr (played by Leonardo DiCaprio) successfully posed as a sociology professor. When asked how he pulled it off, he simply said, 'I just read one chapter ahead of the class.' That’s it. He didn’t need to be the world’s foremost expert—he just needed to stay a little ahead. That’s often all it takes to add value and make an impact.

Imposter Syndrome Is Inevitable—At Every Stage

Even peak performers aren’t immune to imposter syndrome. In fact, 71% of U.S. CEOs have reported experiencing imposter syndrome at some point in their careers. If the people running billion-dollar companies feel this way, it’s proof that imposter syndrome isn’t a sign of incompetence—it’s a natural part of growth.

No matter where we are in our careers, we will feel imposter syndrome when we try something new. It happens when we step into unfamiliar territory, and it’s actually a sign of growth.

Think about these transitions:

• Starting a new business – The excitement is high, but so is the doubt. "Am I really cut out for this? Do I have what it takes?"

• Getting promoted – You’ve worked hard for this, but suddenly you wonder if you really deserve it. "What if my team realizes I don’t know everything?"

• Landing the dream job – You spent years wanting this, and now you’re in the room. "Do I actually belong here?"

Sound familiar? Imposter syndrome isn’t proof that you’re unqualified. It’s proof that you’re pushing yourself to grow. The real challenge isn’t eliminating it—it’s learning how to work through it.

Here's How to Take Action

Feeling like you don’t belong? Here’s how to take back control:

1. Identify Your Strengths

Instead of focusing on what you don’t know, focus on what you bring to the table. Your experience, skills, and unique perspective all matter.

Example: A new manager might feel they lack leadership experience, but they excel at problem-solving and motivating their team. Instead of trying to “be the perfect leader,” they can lean into their ability to foster collaboration.

2. Ask for Feedback

We’re often our own worst critics. Seeking feedback from colleagues, mentors, or even clients can give us a more realistic view of our abilities.

Example: A first-time entrepreneur might feel overwhelmed by launching a business. By asking early customers or mentors what they find valuable about their service, they can gain confidence and refine their approach.

3. Take Smaller Steps Toward the Bigger Goal

Instead of focusing on the entire mountain, focus on the next step. Progress builds confidence.

Example: A professional switching careers might feel overwhelmed by the idea of becoming an expert in a new field. Instead of waiting to feel “fully ready,” they start by taking one freelance gig, attending networking events, or shadowing someone in their desired industry.

No One Is Going to Hand You a Certificate Saying “You’re Ready”

We love the idea of external validation. A diploma. A job title. A letter after our name.

But here’s the truth: The only real qualification for coaching, leadership, or making an impact is doing the work and delivering value.

Yes, competence matters. No one wants an unqualified surgeon, therapist, or financial advisor. But most of the things we aspire to do—whether coaching, writing, speaking, or starting a business—aren’t about being the world’s foremost expert. They’re about being one step ahead of the person we’re helping.

You Learn By Doing

There’s no certification that will make you feel “ready.”

There’s no moment where the imposter syndrome disappears entirely.

The only way forward? Start. Learn. Adjust. Keep going.

If you’re already helping people—if your work is making their lives better—you’re more “qualified” than you think.

What’s One Step You Can Take Today?

If you’ve been waiting for permission to pursue the work you care about, consider this your green light.

What’s one action—big or small—that moves you forward today?

Drop it in the comments. Let’s talk about it.

Still unsure of your next step? Let’s figure it out together. Book a discovery call and let’s chart a path forward.