June: A Month of Growth & Fresh Starts FOCUS
June is here – longer days, new possibilities, and maybe even a little extra motivation to shake things up. It’s the perfect time to step back and look at growth in a new light – because it’s not about hitting big milestones.
Real growth happens in the small moments, the mindset shifts, and the quiet confidence that comes from finally giving yourself credit where it’s due. It’s about recognizing you – your strengths, your progress, and the fact that self-doubt has been taking up too much space in your head.
This month, let’s call out imposter syndrome for what it is – a sneaky little voice that’s been overstaying its welcome. Whether it’s creeping into your work, relationships, or personal goals, it’s time to flip the script. You don’t have to be perfect to be capable, and self-doubt doesn’t get to call the shots. You’re already enough – time to start believing it.
The Inner Battle of Self-Doubt
Ever felt like you’re just one lucky break away from being “found out”? Like no matter how much effort you put in, self-doubt keeps whispering that you haven’t really earned your success?
Imposter syndrome isn’t just a career issue—it’s a confidence issue. It sneaks into every corner of life, making even well-earned wins feel temporary. But here’s the thing: feeling like an imposter doesn’t mean you are one.
Quick Gut Check: Think of a recent accomplishment—big or small. Was your first instinct to credit luck or downplay it? If so, you’re not alone, but let’s shift that thinking.
How Imposter Syndrome Shows Up
At Work:
- “I don’t deserve this promotion—I just got lucky.” (Luck is great, but so is skill—let’s not forget that part.)
- “I need to work twice as hard so people won’t think I’m a fraud.” (Overworking ≠ proof of ability.)
- “I can’t ask for help—it’ll make me look incompetent.” (Spoiler: asking for help actually shows strength.)
In Life:
- “I’m not a good enough friend/partner—everyone will leave once they see the real me.” (The real you is exactly why people stick around.)
- “I always feel like I’m pretending to be confident.” (Confidence isn’t pretending, it’s practicing.)
- “I don’t deserve happiness.” (Let’s go ahead and throw this belief all the way out.)
Pause for a Reality Check: If your best friend said these things, would you let them spiral or remind them how much they bring to the table? Now, apply that same kindness to yourself.
How We Try to “Fix” It (And Why It Doesn’t Work)
Instead of tackling imposter syndrome head-on, people develop coping mechanisms—some helpful, some not so much.
- Overworking & Perfectionism – Because maybe this time you’ll feel worthy? (Spoiler: it’s a trap.)
- Avoiding Vulnerability – If you never let people in, they can’t see the “flaws,” right? (Except humans connect through authenticity, not perfection.)
- Seeking Constant Validation – The more praise, the better… until it wears off in five minutes.
- Downplaying Achievements – “Oh, it was nothing.” Except, it was something.
“I realized no amount of external validation could fix the way I felt internally. I had to redefine my confidence from the inside out.”
— Sarah Lewis
Small Reflection: Do you catch yourself fixing self-doubt with overworking, perfectionism, or validation? If so, which one feels most familiar?
The Real Way to Move Past Imposter Syndrome
Overcoming imposter syndrome isn’t about never doubting yourself—it’s about learning to respond differently when doubt pops up.
- Reframe Negative Thinking – Instead of chalking success up to luck, remember the skill and effort you put into it.
- Embrace Imperfection – Mistakes aren’t proof you don’t belong, they’re proof you’re learning.
- Accept Praise & Own Your Strengths – Next time someone compliments you, try just saying “Thank you”—no disclaimers.
- Stop Comparing – Someone else’s success doesn’t make yours less valid. Stay in your own lane.
- Take a Bold Step – Apply for the role, share your creativity, do the thing—because the only way to prove you can is to try.
One Simple Challenge: Pick the toughest item from this list and try it once this week. The world won’t end if you say “thank you” without deflecting. Promise.
Moving Forward with Confidence
Recognizing imposter syndrome is the first step. Choosing how to respond to it? That’s what actually moves the needle.
This week, challenge self-doubt by:
- Writing down three accomplishments that make you proud—career or personal.
- Accepting compliments without minimizing them—just say “thank you” and let it stand.
- Taking one action you’ve been avoiding because of self-doubt.
Confidence isn’t about never experiencing doubt—it’s about not letting doubt run the show.
You’ve Got This
Growth isn’t about never experiencing doubt—it’s about choosing how you respond to it. The journey to confidence isn’t about perfection—it’s about embracing your progress, owning your accomplishments, and refusing to let imposter syndrome dictate your decisions.
So, what’s one small step you can take today to challenge self-doubt? Apply for the role? Say yes to an opportunity? Let yourself just be without overanalyzing?
Whatever it is, take the leap—and remember, the only person you need to prove anything to is you.
If imposter syndrome has been holding you back, let’s shift the narrative together. Book a coaching session today and step into the confidence you already have.
~ With Confidence and Clarity, Holly🌿
Holly Steinhoff, CPC, ELI-MP, CICP
Founder & CEO
Ready to quiet imposter syndrome and step into confidence? Let’s shift the narrative together—reach out today, and let’s make it happen!
