Overwhelmed in your new role, it’s time for a reframe

Have you stepped into a new job or taken on a stretch role recently?

Are you now questioning your abilities? 

Perhaps imposter syndrome is creeping in?

I have a message for you:

YOU DON'T SUCK AT YOUR JOB!

I get it, it is really uncomfortable to join a new company, a new team, take on a totally new role, especially the first 3-6 months.

But, know, please know, that the challenge you're navigating does not reflect your ability or your value nor does it define who you are as a leader. 

Your confidence and courage to grow has launched you into a new environment that is unlike what you’ve navigated before, which is really incredible.

I was talking to a client I've worked with for years yesterday. We met to prep as they get ready to start their biggest and most senior role yet.

In our conversation I shared one of my favorite metaphors for navigating new, challenging roles: 

🏃‍♀️ Imagine a runner, a kick-ass runner who gets on the treadmill every day.

She runs her miles, beats her times, has impeccable form, power and endurance. She is so good she’s ready for that next challenge.

She decides to take her practice outside and give trail running a go.

It is hard as hell 😰.

There are so many new elements that change with every run that are out of her control - the uneven terrain, the elevation changes, the weather…

Her form, endurance and confidence are all challenged with each new trail.

She feels clumsy and questions her running ability.

Does this make her a bad runner?

Hell no!

She is still a kick-ass runner, she's just running somewhere totally new.

So, of course it feels uncomfortable and she can't perform at the same caliber... yet.

In time, that will change.

 She will master trail running too, because regardless of where she is running, she has her strong foundations, skills, instincts and resilience to guide her.

And so do you!

You are in a new environment. So, of course, it will be hard. You will feel clumsy and overwhelmed but that doesn't mean you're any less capable.

You chose the hard because you are ready. 

The comfort and confidence will come, just keep lacing up, showing up and being kind to yourself along the way. 

You are incredibly courageous for saying yes to this.

You are talented and your company is lucky to have you.

Don’t forget it 😘.