Overthinking is undermining your leadership. Here’s how to stop
Last week, I talked about the need to balance your confidence with curiosity. But for many (many!) leaders I work with, the problem is the opposite one. It’s the creeping self-doubt that whispers, Are you sure? Should you double-check? What if there’s something you missed?
And I’m serious here. The most impressive, smart, capable and outwardly downright magnificent leaders grapple with this.
Hesitation in leadership isn’t always bad – thoughtfulness, curiosity and humility are indeed powerful strengths. But when self-doubt overrides confidence, your decision-making slows, opportunities pass, and teams feel the uncertainty.
I see this often in senior leaders who know their craft but hesitate at key moments - holding back in meetings, second-guessing decisions, or over-relying on consensus.
They’re experts, but they don’t own their expertise.
So, how do you shift the balance? Here are three ways to tap into your expertise (hint: you’ve earned it!) and lead with conviction:
1️ Lean Into the Patterns You’ve Seen
The more senior you get, the less experience is about knowing a whole lot of facts. Rather, it’s about recognising patterns. When you find yourself wobbling when facing a tough decision, ask: Have I seen a version of this before? What worked? What didn’t?
Your brain has built up years of reference points - trust them.
2️ Decide Like It’s the Client’s Problem
Many leaders give rock-solid advice to clients or colleagues but hesitate when it’s their own decision. Try flipping the perspective: If someone else came to me with this, what would I tell them? Then follow your own guidance.
3️ Anchor in Your Track Record
Confidence isn’t about feeling sure all the time - it’s about trusting your ability to handle what comes next. Keep a ‘leadership wins’ file - a quick list of key successes and problems you’ve solved. When doubt hits, skim through it as a reminder: You’ve done this before. You’ve got this.
Hesitation isn’t a bad thing, but too much of it can slow you down. The good news? You already have what you need to be decisive - you just need to trust yourself enough to use it.
Where have you seen self-doubt get in the way of good leadership? Let’s discuss. 👇
Until next week, take care of yourself and others
Madeleine
I help accomplished professionals untangle difficult career questions so they can thrive in work and life.
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