How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome by Leaning Into Community
You’re Not the Only One Who Feels This Way
Let’s be real: entrepreneurship can feel really lonely sometimes. Especially when you’re doing it all on your own—wearing every hat, juggling every role, and trying to keep all the balls in the air. You’re serving clients, managing your marketing, figuring out your finances… and somewhere in the middle of it all, that sneaky voice of imposter syndrome shows up.
You see someone on Instagram launching something big, sharing another dreamy behind-the-scenes moment, and suddenly it feels like you’re falling behind—or not doing enough. That’s the trap of solo-preneurship: when you’re in the bubble of your own business, it’s easy to spiral into business self-doubt and wonder if anything you’re doing is actually “good enough.”
But here’s the thing: you don’t have to stay stuck in that cycle. There’s a way out, and it starts by leaning into community.
Imposter Syndrome Feeds Off Loneliness
When I first started my photography business, I really had no idea what I was doing. I knew how to take pictures—but everything else? I DIYed it. My website, my Instagram, my client communication… it was all a big experiment. Instagram was a source of inspiration, but it also became a place where I constantly compared myself to other creatives and ended up feeling inadequate more often than not.
At the time, I didn’t know any other photographers in my area. I had no one to reach out to, to ask for help, share frustrations, or bounce ideas off of. So sometimes, it felt really lonely.
If you’ve ever been in that same place—doing your best, but feeling isolated and unsure—you are so not alone.
Why Social Media Isn’t Always the Answer
It might seem like social media or Facebook groups are great ways to connect with others, and sometimes they can be. But a lot of the time, they leave you feeling even more disconnected. You’re scrolling through people sharing their big wins or venting about their biggest struggles… and instead of feeling seen, you end up feeling even more confused or behind.
Instagram and Facebook chats can provide some sense of community, but if you’re only ever observing, not engaging, it starts to feel hollow. That’s where imposter syndrome thrives—in silence, in isolation, and in the constant scroll of “look how well everyone else is doing.”
What Leaning Into Real Community Looks Like
For me, there were three experiences that really transformed my relationship with my business and my confidence:
- Attending a photography conference in 2020—by myself. I didn’t know anyone going. I stepped way outside my comfort zone and started a conversation with the woman standing next to me in line waiting for our badges. We hit it off and ended up spending the whole week trading headshots, talking business, and realizing we had so much in common.
- Joining a mastermind—and more importantly, what happened after the mastermind. A few of us started meeting bi-weekly on Zoom to talk about business, life, challenges, and wins. I initiated the meetings because I saw how powerful it was to have real-time conversations during the retreat, and I knew I had the facilitation skills to keep that momentum going. It’s been a game-changer for my business.
- Being part of a collaborative local Facebook group for photographers. “Collaborative” is the keyword here – It’s a space where we can ask questions, give and get actionable advice, and—my favorite part—connect in person at quarterly meetups and events. Those face-to-face connections (even when they’re virtual) make such a difference.
Each of these experiences had one thing in common: real, human connection. Not just liking each other’s posts. Not just watching from a distance. But actually seeing each other, asking questions, being honest, and offering support.
How Community Helps You Fight Back Against Imposter Syndrome
When I’m sitting on a Zoom call with other creative business owners, or attending a local event, the thing that always shifts for me is this: I realize I’m not the only one.
I hear others talk about the exact same challenges I’m facing—and that alone is huge. It reminds me I’m not doing anything wrong, and I’m not behind. I’m just growing, just like everyone else.
And when we lean on each other to find actual solutions, instead of just venting into the void, we’re able to move forward with more clarity and confidence.
Unlike the scroll of Instagram, real community brings in the human element. It gives you space to feel encouraged and challenged in the best way. When you know you’re not alone, it’s easier to approach your business with more grace, and embrace your successes with more confidence.
You Don’t Have to Build Your Business Alone
If imposter syndrome has been creeping in lately—or if you’ve been feeling stuck in your own business bubble—I want you to know: you’re allowed to ask for support. You’re allowed to crave connection. And you absolutely don’t have to figure it all out by yourself.
That’s why I offer one-on-one coaching and full HoneyBook setups—because I know what a difference it makes to have someone in your corner who understands where you are and where you want to go. I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it is to create not just systems, but supportive spaces where business owners like you can thrive.
Let’s Quiet That Inner Critic and Tackle Imposter Syndrome —Together
Feeling stuck in your own bubble? Let’s build a system and a support network that helps you move forward with confidence.
Whether you’re craving more clarity, more community, or just someone to say “yep, I’ve been there too”—I’m here for you.
💛 Grab a free resource to get started, or book a discovery call and let’s talk through what’s feeling heavy and how we can lighten the load—together.
