How to Claim Your Seat at the Table
The Problem: That Sneaky Voice Saying “You’re Not Good Enough”
Let’s be real—imposter syndrome is a sneaky little liar. One day you’re on top of your game, ready to launch your offer, pitch your services, or speak on that podcast. The next, you’re spiraling down the “Who do I think I am?” rabbit hole. Sound familiar?
Whether you’re new to the entrepreneurial scene or have years under your belt, that internal doubt can creep in and tell you you’re not qualified, not experienced enough, not worthy of being seen as an expert. And here’s the kicker: the more accomplished you are, the louder it gets.
This mindset doesn’t just bruise your confidence—it silences your voice, delays your progress, and keeps your business playing small. And for women over 40? Add in ageism, perfectionism, and the pressure to “prove ourselves” in male-dominated spaces, and you’ve got a recipe for staying invisible.
But you didn’t build all of this just to sit quietly on the sidelines, did you?
The Solution: Reclaiming Your Power and Owning Your Expertise
Here’s the truth: you don’t need another certificate, another 6-week masterclass, or permission from anyone to step into your authority. You’ve already earned your seat at the table.
Let’s walk through how to kick imposter syndrome to the curb and start showing up as the powerful expert you are—without apology.
1. Unmask the Imposter: Recognize the Triggers
Ask yourself:
- When do I feel like a fraud?
- What specific situations trigger that inner critic?
- Whose voice am I actually hearing when I doubt myself?
Try this: Keep a 7-day “Imposter Log.” Anytime that creeping doubt pops up, write down:
- What happened
- What you were thinking
- How you felt
- What you know to be true
This gets those irrational thoughts out of your head and into the light, where they lose their power.
2. Reframe Your Inner Narrative
Your brain believes what you tell it—so start telling it the truth.
Instead of:
“I don’t know enough to lead this workshop.”
Say:
“My lived experience and insight are valuable, and someone out there needs to hear it from me.”
Affirmation of the Week:
“I am not an imposter. I am the expert of my story, my craft, and my journey.”
Write it. Say it. Record it as a voice memo and play it back whenever you need a reminder.
3. Document Your Receipts
We’re not just talking testimonials and degrees (although, yes—those count). We’re talking:
- Challenges you’ve overcome
- Clients you’ve helped
- Innovations you’ve created
- Skills you’ve mastered from life and work
Do this exercise:
Create a “Brag Bank.” Yep, you heard me. Every win—big or small—goes in. Client emails, screenshots, notes to self, sticky notes from your mirror. This becomes your go-to arsenal when imposter syndrome rears its head.
4. Speak Up Strategically
Your authority doesn’t just lie in what you know—it lies in how you communicate it.
Exercise: Practice sharing your expertise in low-stakes environments:
- Answer questions in FB groups or forums
- Go live on Instagram or record short reels
- Host a free virtual Q&A with your audience
- Be a guest on someone else’s podcast before launching your own
Each time you share, you reinforce your confidence—and your audience starts to see you as the go-to.
5. Claim Your Seat—Then Make It Your Throne
No more shrinking, second-guessing, or asking for permission. Show up boldly with your unique voice and style. The table doesn’t define you—you elevate the room by being at it.
Need help visualizing it? Close your eyes and ask:
- “What does it look like when I speak as the expert I am?”
- “How do I hold space when I know my value?”
- “What kind of energy do I bring when I believe I belong?”
Then? Be her.
Final Thought: You’ve Already Done the Work
Imposter syndrome doesn’t go away overnight, but you can quiet it. Over time, confidence becomes a habit. And don’t forget: there are people out there making serious money teaching what you know—minus half the heart and hustle you bring to the table.
So pull up that chair, straighten your crown, and speak up. We’re listening. And we need what you have.
Your Turn: Have you ever struggled with imposter syndrome in your business journey? What helps you push through and claim your space? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear how YOU’re kicking doubt to the curb. For more on this topic, check out this video,
Don’t forget to subscribe to the Problem & Solution Series for these and other valuable tips and advice. For additional inspiration, listen to The Jameela Adams Experience podcast, available every Friday.
