Imposter syndrome has no place in my career.

Imposter syndrome is loosely defined as doubting your abilities and feeling like a fraud.

I recently had an inquiry about commissioning a custom hat for a woman who is very active in the western/equestrian riding scene. She has commissioned several hats from big established hat shops in the SW and is educated about the hat making process.

Within seconds of listening to her voicemail I experienced a rush of imposter syndrome. What would she think about our small shop? Would she take me seriously as a hat maker? Would I be able to deliver a hat that is the same quality as what she has received from these other custom hat shops?

My mind spun out of control. I felt nervous. I doubted myself.

To add to my anxiety she wanted a hat shape I had not made before (5” flat brim) and she needed it within a few weeks for an event she was flying to.

What I do know about myself is I love a good challenge. In this moment instead of believing this imposter voice in my head, I accepted her commission. I reminded myself I have the skill set to make hats, a mentor to turn to for answers and we offer an experience that is relational, not just transactional.

As the story goes, I took on her commission, I worked meticulously to craft exactly what we talked about and when the hat was delivered Lisa put her new hat on and exclaimed, “Wow! It feels like a custom hat, it fits perfect.”

“Few”, was my quiet response. So quiet no one heard.

The next time this “imposter voice” makes an appearance I will call it’s bluff!”