Imposter Syndrome In Small Business

Let’s talk about something most small business owners and sole traders don’t always admit to – Imposter Syndrome. Ever felt like you don’t quite belong in your own business, or that you’re just one misstep away from being ‘found out’? Yeah, me too.

Running a business is tough enough without that little voice in your head telling you you’re not good enough. The crazy thing is, no matter how successful you are, Imposter Syndrome can sneak in at any time. I’ve experienced it first-hand – both in my bookkeeping practice and with my ecommerce bridal business. It’s been a journey of rapid growth, self-doubt, hard-earned lessons, and learning when to push forward or pivot. If any of this resonates with you, keep reading. You’re not alone.

What is Imposter Syndrome?

Imposter Syndrome is that persistent feeling that you’re not as competent or qualified as others believe you to be. It’s the sneaky suspicion that your achievements are down to luck, not skill. No matter how much evidence there is to the contrary – glowing client feedback, business growth, awards, or milestones – it whispers, “You don’t deserve this.”

It can show up in all kinds of ways:

• Over-preparing because you’re afraid of being caught out

• Dismissing your wins as “just a fluke”

• Comparing yourself to others and always coming up short

And guess what? It doesn’t matter how accomplished you are – Imposter Syndrome can strike anyone, especially small business owners and sole traders wearing all the hats.

Why Do We Experience It?

Running your own business is a wild ride full of highs and lows. One minute you’re on top of the world, and the next you’re wondering why you ever thought you could do this. Trust me, I’ve been there. In fact, BBS Morecambe Ltd grew so quickly that keeping up with the growth while managing my own feelings of doubt became a challenge in itself. I found myself questioning if I really had what it takes to lead a growing business.

Then there’s SJF Bridal Ltd, a business that aims to disrupt the bridal industry. With that comes risk – creative choices, business pivots, and accepting knockbacks. Not every decision lands the way you’d hoped. But that’s part of the journey, right? Still, Imposter Syndrome loves to swoop in at those vulnerable moments and whisper, “See? You’re not cut out for this.”

But why do we feel this way in the first place? Here are a few reasons:

• Perfectionism – When nothing ever feels ‘good enough,’ you’ll always feel like a fraud.

• Comparisons – Social media is a double-edged sword. It’s easy to look at other businesses and assume everyone else has it figured out while you’re floundering.

• Success Misinterpretation – We often attribute our wins to external factors like luck or timing but blame ourselves for every setback.

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How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome

Here’s the good news: you can manage Imposter Syndrome. Will it ever go away entirely? Maybe not. But it doesn’t have to control your journey. Here’s how I’ve learned to keep it in check – and how you can too:

1. Recognise It for What It Is

The first step is just acknowledging it. If you feel like a fraud, stop and ask yourself: What’s the evidence? Chances are, you’ll realise your doubts aren’t based on facts. Write down your wins and remind yourself how far you’ve come.

2. Talk About It

One of the quickest ways to deflate Imposter Syndrome is to talk about it. Chances are, your fellow business owners have been through something similar. Sharing your experiences can be empowering – and hearing theirs might just be the reassurance you need.

3. Celebrate Every Win

Small business owners are notorious for moving the goalposts. You hit a milestone and instead of celebrating, you’re already chasing the next. Take time to appreciate every success – whether it’s securing a new client, launching a product, or simply surviving a tough week.

4. Reframe Failure

Not every knockback is a sign that you’re failing. Sometimes, it’s a nudge in a different direction. At SJF Bridal, there have been plenty of moments where I’ve had to reassess and pivot. It’s not failure – it’s growth.

5. Remember: You’re Not Alone

Even the most confident business leaders have moments of self-doubt. The key is to not let those thoughts derail you. Surround yourself with supportive people – a mentor, a business coach, or just fellow entrepreneurs who get it.

6. Accept That Growth Feels Uncomfortable

If you feel a bit out of your depth, it probably means you’re growing. Instead of seeing discomfort as a warning sign, take it as a signal that you’re levelling up.

Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This

Imposter Syndrome isn’t a sign that you’re failing. If anything, it’s a sign that you care deeply about what you’re doing. And that’s not a bad thing! The next time you hear that voice whispering doubts, remind yourself how far you’ve come and why you started your business in the first place.

So, to all the small business owners and sole traders out there – don’t let Imposter Syndrome dim your light. You’re doing something brave, exciting, and challenging. Be proud of your journey.

And if you ever need a reminder that you’re not alone, just remember: even those of us running bookkeeping practices and bridal businesses have been there too. 😊