In this episode, we hear from Hamish Mackay-Lewis, founder of a leadership coaching company. Through his work, Hamish supports individuals to step into leadership roles as well as working with teams to support their growth.

Hamish shares his advice on how to understand your imposter syndrome, explains why it is actually an experience rather than a syndrome and some simple things you as a founder can do to manage those sometimes sabotaging thoughts that can come into your head when going out on your own. 

Hamish’s advice: 

• Impostor experience is very common: feelings of inadequacy which can come and go
• One advantage of these feelings is that you will prepare thoroughly and be highly motivated
• The disadvantage however can be feeling constantly anxious, doubting yourself
• It’s important to celebrate yourself, not to constantly compare yourself with others
• Don’t set yourself unreasonable goals
• Observe your thoughts; if you are noticing self-doubt, check in with others to get an  objective opinion about your achievements - and trust their opinions
• Recognise where this self-doubt stems from (often from childhood) and come to terms with this
• Don’t bury the sadness / frustration / nerves; learn to accept and understand these uncomfortable feelings.  Face up to what is causing them
• Consciously choose your response to life; practise daily to be in the moment
• Understand what is important about your business, its bigger purpose, quite apart from any financial rewards
• Keep a diary to record your satisfactions and frustrations and be attentive to what gives you energy and joy
• Be kind to yourself; remembering you are not alone with these feelings can give you resilience
• Accept that you will always have nagging doubts and may never feel good enough; and at the same time recognise that you are, of course, perfectly good enough!

If you'd like to contact Hamish you can reach him via [email protected]

Fallow, Field & Mason enables you to own your PR in-house for the long term. This saves you money on monthly PR agency retainer fees and allows you to build your own press network. 

FF&M also offers an end-to-end podcast production service for businesses, brands and individuals to reach and connect with new audiences while further raising their profiles.  

Email us at [email protected] or DM us on Instagram @fallowfieldmason. 

Let us know how your startup journey is going or if you have any questions you would like us to discuss in future episodes. 

FF&M recommends: 

• LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.
• Google Workspace is brilliant for small businesses
• Buzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directory
• Canva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.
• For contracts check out Law Depot.

Recorded, edited & published in 2023 by Juliet Fallowfield founder of PR & podcast production consultancy Fallow, Field & Mason.  MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &

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