Hey Reader,

Last year, I switched to a new gym.

It was one of those sleek, modern places where everyone seems to know exactly what they’re doing. There is the unspoken etiquette of which bench to use and when. I feel like I spent the first few weeks pretending to stretch while secretly decoding the layout like an undercover agent.

Why am I telling you this?

Because this experience taught me something important, something I want to share with you today.

Whenever you step into something new, a new job, a new gym, a new business, a new identity...

The feeling is always the same.

Everyone looks like they've already got it all figured out. And you feel like you are always 10 steps behind. (Do you relate?)

I felt this when I first started creating content online (everyone seemed to be “killing it”).

I felt it when I left my full-time job for the rollercoaster of entrepreneurship (spoiler: no one has a perfect plan).

I felt it when I became a parent for the first time (how come all the other babies are sleeping through the night and not mine?!).

But I want to tell you a secret, and it's something that I even need to be reminded of sometimes.

Everyone else is quietly thinking the same thing about you.

And this changed the way I think about imposter syndrome forever.

Ego vs. Imposter Syndrome

Because this is where imposter syndrome thrives, in the gap between perception and reality, we assume everyone else belongs, while we’re the only ones improvising.

But really, most people are navigating uncertainty with a straight face.

I remembered a line from Ryan Holiday’s Stillness Is the Key book, that really hit home for me:

Most people think ego = arrogance. And imposter syndrome = insecurity.

But here’s the twist Ryan Holiday points out:

Both are centered around YOU.

Because ego says: “I’m great, and everyone should see it.”

Imposter syndrome says, “I’m not great, and I really hope that nobody finds out.”

Maybe some of these happened to you before:

• Getting praised at work → you feel pressure to “stay impressive” (ego).
• Starting a new project → you convince yourself you're unqualified (imposter).
• Posting on social media → you rewrite the caption 14 times so you don’t look silly.
• Joining a meeting with senior leaders → you stay quiet, afraid of asking a “dumb” question.

I've been there to ALL of these.

Practical Ways that Helped Me Overcome Imposter Syndrome

Here are five everyday habits that help you break the ego–imposter cycle, that I've personally tried in my everyday life.

1. Something to remember when self-doubts creep in:

“This is not about me. This is about the work.”

Move the focus from inward to outward.

2. Normalise not knowing

Next time you’re unsure in a meeting, try:
​“Can you walk me through that?”​
or
​“I’m not familiar with that. Can you clarify?”

You’ll be shocked at how often others feel secretly relieved you asked.

3. Shrink the frame

Instead of thinking about the entire project, ask yourself:
​“What’s the next step?”

In my experience, imposter syndrome thrives in big-picture overwhelm.

4. Do one “beginner” thing per week

Try a new skill, class, workout, or creative experiment. Go outside of your comfort zone and let yourself take that uncertain leap.

It trains your nervous system that “not knowing” isn’t dangerous.

This Week’s Challenge

Think of one area in your life where imposter syndrome has been holding you back, work, creativity, parenting, fitness, anything.

Then ask yourself:

“What’s one small action I can take this week that moves me forward, even if I don’t feel ready?”

Show up as a beginner. Because that’s where your real and humble confidence begins.

To your growth,

Laurie 🙌

🎥 Your Best Work Is Hidden Behind One First Step

If imposter syndrome has ever held you back from sharing your ideas, this week’s video is for you.

We live in a world where it’s easier than ever to consume, whether it's books, podcasts, TikTok, or Reels. However, at some point, more information stops being helpful.

It becomes another form of procrastination. A safer space to stay as a learner instead of becoming a contributor.

If you’ve been waiting to feel ready…

If you’ve been telling yourself you need “just one more resource”...

If you know deep down you’ve been hiding behind preparation…

​This video is your sign.

📹 Want to build a remarkable personal brand on YouTube?

If you’re ready to grow your influence and start creating with confidence, I’d love to work with you.

​Book a free strategy call, where we’ll discuss your YouTube growth plan, clarify your message, and build a future-proof personal brand that AI can’t replace.

Our first VIP cohort is already underway (and we are having a great start). The next cohort opens in January. If you’d like to join us, I look forward to speaking to you.

Thanks for reading and being part of this growing community. See you in the next newsletter!

​​​​

P.S. Was this email forwarded to you? You can sign up for your own copy here!