Starting a new businessis a challenging, exciting, and sometimes overwhelming time. You’ve put in the time, effort, and resources to build something new. You might feel a sense of pride and anticipation, but you might also feel like a fraud. This feeling, known as imposter syndrome, which can creep up when you’re starting a new business, especially when it feels like there’s so much to learn and so many tasks to undertake.
What is Imposter Syndrome
Imposter syndrome is generally related to feelings of anxiousness and being unsuccessful, despite
what the reality might actually be. The condition often results in people feeling like ‘a phony’ or ‘a fraud’ and doubting their abilities. The term originates in the 1970s with the psychologist Dr Pauline Clance and her own feelings of anxiety and inadequacy. She worked alongside fellow psychologist Dr Suzanne Imes, who also struggled with self-doubt. Whilst, imposter syndrome is not a diagnosed mental health condition, it can cause significant problems in life. This can include anxiety and low mood, which can impact upon self-employment.
You are not alone
Firstly, it's importantto realize that you’re not alone. Imposter syndrome affects many people - especially those starting something new. Many successful entrepreneurs have all experienced self-doubt. Thus, it is vitally important that we are good to ourselves. Listen to our bodies and minds and rest when we need to. Make sure we get enough sleep, eat well, don’t drink too much alcohol and get enough exercise. Also, don’t be too hard on yourself if things don’t go to plan, it is part on the learning process.
Accept that you are going to make mistakes, it’s the best way to learn. So, focus on your progress. When starting a business, ascertain the facts - have there been tasks in the past you found very difficult when you started and now find easy? What have been your achievements? What are you most proud about? This can help overcome imposter syndrome when starting a business.
When running a business always look to talk about yourself in a positive way. Take time to enjoy your successes, no matter how small they may appear at first. One way is to keep positive feedback close at hand, whether in the form of emails from former managers or other former colleagues. Indeed, keep certificates nearby also.
Get a mentor
No one achieves success alone. Connecting with other entrepreneurs or seeking mentorship from experienced business owners can provide a valuable perspective. A mentor can offer advice, help you problem-solve, and remind you of your strengths when you’re feeling uncertain. You don’t need to have all the answers. It’s okay to ask for help and lean on others and seek help from the Bright Red Triangle and other support. Not only will this reduce feelings of isolation, but it will also provide useful resources and insights for your business.
When starting a business, don’t compare yourself to others, for this is an easy trap to fall into. Comparing ourselves to others will likely reduce our mental wellbeing. There is always going to be somebody better qualified, getting more customers, earning more money. Rather than comparing ourselves, focus on making yourself the best version of yourself.
Reframe your thoughts
Failure is often a source of anxiety for new entrepreneurs, but it’s important to change how you view failure. Instead of seeing failure as evidence of your inadequacy, embrace it as an opportunity to
grow. Every failure offers a chance to learn, adapt, and improve. Many successful business owners have failed numerous times before reaching their current level of success. The key is not to internalize failure, but to use it as feedback. Ask yourself: “What can I learn from this experience?” This will help you move forward with a healthier mindset and prevent you from getting stuck in self-doubt to fully develop your business.
Stephen McMurray is an Edinburgh-based Hypnotherapist and graduate of Edinburgh Napier University