78: 3 Ways Ops Execs Nail Presentations Without Self-Doubt

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/78.

Once upon a time, there was an operations executive who was brilliant. For years, she’d been the go-to problem solver, building a collaborative workplace that made her indispensable.

One day, she was asked to present her ideas on stage. She’d never done this on such a large scale before. Self-doubt crept in, whispering, “Who am I to do this? What if I look like an idiot?” She couldn’t stop imagining every mistake that might happen. 

It’s not surprising. Nearly 70% of people experience imposter syndrome at some point, those nagging feelings of self-doubt that hold you back. But what if those feelings aren’t proof you don’t belong? What if they’re just evidence that you’re growing into something bigger?

In this episode, you’ll get tips to calm yourself when anxiety strikes so you can own your place on that stage. 

Transcript

Once upon a time, there was an operations executive who was brilliant. For years, she’d been the go-to problem solver, building a collaborative workplace that made her indispensable.

One day, she was asked to present her ideas on stage. She’d never done this on such a large scale before. Self-doubt crept in, whispering, “Who am I to do this? What if I look like an idiot?” She couldn’t stop imagining every mistake that might happen.

It’s not surprising. Nearly 70% of people experience imposter syndrome at some point, those nagging feelings of self-doubt that hold you back. But what if those feelings aren’t proof you don’t belong? What if they’re just evidence that you’re growing into something bigger?

In this episode, you’ll get tips to calm yourself when anxiety strikes so you can own your place on that stage. Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/78.

Hey Ops Execs, 

What Is Imposter Syndrome—and Why It’s Not Your Fault

You know that you’re the hardest-working, most resourceful problem-solvers and leaders who keep it all rolling along smoothly. Yet even the most capable face moments of doubt, particularly when stepping into unfamiliar territory like public speaking or high-stakes presentations.

Recently, someone asked me for tips on dealing with imposter syndrome before a big presentation. And I told them that the single biggest mindset shift is realizing that that little voice whispering “I’m not good enough” isn’t proof that something is wrong with you. It’s just a natural reaction to stepping outside your comfort zone. 

Sometimes those feelings are made worse by systems and expectations that subtly (or not so subtly) encourage you to question yourself. But instead of trying to “fix” yourself to fit those expectations, what if you focused on bringing the best of who you are to the table? What if you leaned into your considerable strengths and shared your expertise so others can benefit from it?

3 Steps to Reframe Imposter Syndrome and Find Your Confidence

Here’s my 3-part antidote to feelings of imposter syndrome:

1.Empower Yourself with Perspective: Let me tell you about “bicycle face.” In the late 1800s, as bicycles became popular among women, a fake medical condition called “bicycle face” was invented to scare them off riding bikes. Symptoms included flushed cheeks and a tense jaw: Things that happen naturally when cycling! The real reason for this so-called condition? Bicycles gave women independence and freedom, and that threatened societal norms at the time.

In a brilliant and inspiring commencement speech for Smith College, Reshma Saujani reframed imposter syndrome as the modern version of “bicycle face”: A fabricated concept meant to hold people back from advancing into spaces they’ve earned. Her message? You’re not the problem. The system is. So next time self-doubt creeps in, try reminding yourself: If I’m in this room or on this stage, it’s because I’ve earned my place.

2.Ground Yourself in the Present Moment: Before stepping up to speak, make time to take a few deep breaths and remind yourself: I am here because I’ve earned this opportunity. It’s simple, it’s small, but it can help calm your nerves and center your focus.

3.Reframe Self-Doubt with Growth Language: Whenever self-doubt starts creeping in, try adding the word “yet” to your negative thoughts (e.g., “I’m not an expert on this… yet.” Or “I’m not comfortable speaking in front of a large audience… yet.”). Just this tiny word can give you a longer runway and shifts fear to something new.

Practical Tips for Your Next Presentation

Now let’s talk about how to put this into action:

• Start small: Practice with a trusted colleague or record yourself to build confidence.
• Focus on helping your audience: Remember, they’re here to learn from you. When you notice you’re thinking “What will they think of me?” try shifting over to “How can I help them?”
• Use grounding techniques like meditation or visualization before stepping on stage.

You see, imposter syndrome isn’t about whether you’re qualified. It’s about stepping into someplace where growth happens. You’ve earned your place; now go out there and do it! So, give these tips a try—and let me know how it goes.

Today I’ll leave you with this question: What would happen if you stopped questioning your worth and started owning your expertise?

If you’re being asked to present more often or take on higher-profile projects, it’s because people see something valuable in you. They want more of what you bring to the table. If you’re ready to define your unique role in all of it, let’s work together. In my personal branding session, we’ll uncover how to show up as the leader you’re meant to be. Visit yourfuturerealized.com/branding to learn more.

You can’t stop the chaos, but you can change the game.