The Right-Hand Roadmap

#40: Why Am I Becoming Less Confident Over Time?

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Feeling less confident in your role as a Second-in-Command? Learn how the Dunning-Kruger effect impacts your leadership and how to overcome it.

Ever feel like the more you learn, the less confident you become? You’re not imagining it. This is the Dunning-Kruger effect at work. In this episode, we break down how this psychological phenomenon affects Seconds-in-Command and why gaining experience can sometimes feel like a confidence killer. Learn how to push past self-doubt, trust your expertise, and lead with confidence...even when you don’t have all the answers.

You'll hear all about:

  • 01:11 – Why COOs and Integrators often feel less confident over time.
  • 02:17 – The paradox: the more you know, the more you realize you don’t know.
  • 03:00 – Real-world examples from coaching engagements where confidence dips after deeper learning.
  • 03:42 – Understanding "Mount Stupid"—why overconfidence is highest when knowledge is lowest.
  • 04:11 – Three ways the Dunning-Kruger effect impacts Seconds-in-Command:
  • 04:16 – Second-guessing decisions, even when you’re the most qualified.
  • 04:44 – Assuming the CEO has all the answers (hint: they don’t).
  • 05:22 – Holding back on leading boldly when your perspective is most needed.
  • 06:03 – How to counteract self-doubt and embrace your role:
  • 06:09 – Trust your expertise and recognize self-awareness as a strength.
  • 06:32 – Assert yourself with confidence—your CEO needs your input.
  • 07:34 – Embrace continuous learning, but don’t let it paralyze you.
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    Links mentioned in the episode:

    • The Dunning-Kruger Effect
    • Second First Membership
    • Second First One-on-One Coaching
    • Second First on Instagram
    • Second First on LinkedIn
    • Megan Long on LinkedIn
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      The Right-Hand RoadmapBy Megan Long