Suffering from Imposter Syndrome? So do I!

And apparently, that‘s quite normal for experts

I am an expert. There, I said it. I am a presentation skills expert. Saying it out loud feels strange. I have overcome so many obstacles that I feel like an imposter saying it. But it is true. And how do I know? People turn to me for help when they are stuck with their presentation or feel that their delivery isn’t working. They turn to me to ask for help with Zoom, Powerpoint, wording, and everything else that is involved in the process of making and delivering a stellar presentation.

But why am I telling you this? Truth be told, I couldn’t sleep last night. I started reading Expert Secrets by Russel Branson. Right in the beginning, he talked about how many experts don’t see themselves as such, thinking that they are not good enough. Wow, that touched a nerve. And it got me thinking.

I know a lot of great people who are experts in their fields. And except for a few people, most are humble and don’t think they are really experts. They just happen to know quite a bit about their field or that they have this natural ability — no need to make a big deal out of it.

But here is what I have come to realize. It is a big deal. I have poured thousands of hours of tears, sweat, and dollars (yes) into overcoming my fear of public speaking. I read tons of books and articles, watched countless videos, attended many workshops. Once I knew what I was doing, my innate need to help others kicked in. And people appreciate the help and insights I give them. They are willing to pay for it!

Am I perfect? No. I still learn and grow. But my knack for teaching others is definitely an added advantage. Truth be told, I still get flustered; I still get nervous.

A few weeks ago, I gave a small presentation twice in the same day to two different networking groups. One person attended both (he organized one, and I invited him to the other). The first one, held in Hebrew, was a bit of a disaster if I am honest. I hemmed and hawed quite a bit. A few people even called me up afterward and told me off (yes, very supportive). Then came the evening, and I gave the same presentation in English — flawlessly!

The guy who attended both spoke to me afterward and told me he was amazed. It was like two different people were giving these presentations! You see, Hebrew isn’t really my forte. Yes, I live in Israel, but I am not nearly as comfortable speaking it as I am speaking in English. But you know what, I am in a networking group that forces me to give my short 30 seconds pitch every week at least once. And after over a year, I am starting to find my comfort zone.

The lesson I learned from my journey is a simple one — I can overcome my obstacles. It is just a matter of time, sweat, and perseverance. Because you see: I am an expert.