Founder Diaries: Entry 13

Impostor Syndrome in a World Obsessed with Confidence

Impostor syndrome isn’t a sign you don’t belong. It’s proof you’re pushing boundaries. Confidence isn’t about being fearless - it’s about showing up anyway.

It’s funny, isn’t it? How you can work tirelessly, pour everything you’ve got into building something, and still wake up some mornings thinking, What if I’m just not cut out for this?

Impostor syndrome. The phrase gets thrown around a lot these days, but it’s not just a buzzword.

It’s a silent, uninvited guest that sneaks into your head and sets up camp. And let me tell you, it’s not picky about when it shows up.

Take last month, for example. I was in a meeting with an investor whose name carries so much weight it practically echoes. They nodded politely as I explained my vision, asked thoughtful questions, and even seemed impressed by a few points. But the whole time, this tiny voice in the back of my mind kept whispering…

You don’t belong here. They’re humouring you. Any second now, they’re going to realise you have no idea what you’re doing.

It’s exhausting, carrying that voice around.

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Entry 13

The Confidence Illusion