Delve into the complexities of anxiety and imposter syndrome, where being human is the real challenge. The host shares personal stories of feeling unqualified in high-pressure situations. Discover the idea that these feelings are natural and not flaws. Learn the importance of listening to all your inner voices without letting fear control you. Embrace vulnerability as a strength, promoting authenticity in sharing doubts. Ultimately, true courage shines through when we act despite our fears.
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insights INSIGHT
Anxiety and Impostor Syndrome Misunderstood
Anxiety and imposter syndrome themselves are not the real problem.
The real issue is believing we shouldn't feel these emotions.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Self-Doubt in Council Meetings
Steven felt unqualified among highly educated council members, doubting his own place.
Despite lacking formal qualifications, he was welcomed and reminded he earned his seat.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Honest Answer at Climate Panel
At a climate change panel, Steven felt overshadowed by experts but gave a simple honest answer.
His answer resonated and was even praised by experts, boosting his confidence temporarily.
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Episode 147: The Truth About Anxiety & Imposter Syndrome
Welcome to Stillness in the Storms with your host, Steven Webb. In this deeply personal and insightful episode, Steven tackles two of the most common yet misunderstood challenges: anxiety and imposter syndrome.
He argues that these feelings themselves are not the problem. The real issue? Our belief that we shouldn't be experiencing them. Steven shares his own vulnerable journey, from council meetings feeling unqualified, to navigating high-pressure Q&A panels, and the everyday internal dialogues that come with stepping up.
Key Themes & Takeaways:
Reframing the "Problem": Anxiety and imposter syndrome are natural human experiences, not flaws to be eradicated. The real struggle comes from resisting them.
The Power of Listening (Not Obeying): Our minds are full of voices – some fearful, some critical, some brave. The skill is in acknowledging them all, like a chairperson listening to a committee, without letting any single voice dictate your actions.
Authenticity in Vulnerability: Sharing your doubts and fears doesn't make you weak; it makes you relatable and authentic. Steven would rather be in a room with people who acknowledge their imposter syndrome than those who deny it.
Showing Up Anyway: True courage isn't the absence of fear, but acting despite it. Your unique 1% of knowledge or perspective might be exactly what someone else needs to hear.
Personal Anecdotes of Resilience:
Feeling like an outsider in professional council meetings.
The "climate change conference" Q&A panel where a simple, honest answer resonated most.
Being a charity trustee (Community Energy Plus) and doubting his contribution.
The internal battle when asked to apply for a vice-chair role.
The physical manifestations of anxiety before important events.
It Doesn't Go Away, It Becomes Part of the Dialogue: These feelings may not disappear, but our relationship with them can change. They can become familiar (if sometimes annoying) companions rather than paralyzing enemies.
Food for Thought:
What if your anxiety and imposter syndrome are simply signals, not stop signs?
How can you "chair" the committee of voices in your own head more effectively?
Remember: "Confidence isn't the absence of self-doubt; it's showing up anyway."
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Stillness in the Storms