"I feel inferior to more experienced managers"

& being a little too honest

Hey team! Happy Tuesday.

I’ve got to be honest, these past few weeks selling Fresh Start have really pushed me out of my comfort zone. In an ideal world, I’d just educate and share everything I know about being a great leader, because selling repeatedly feels a bit uncomfortable.

BUT I want to say a huge thank you for all the support during this launch.

I know it’s the best piece of work I’ve ever created, and I couldn’t let my discomfort around selling get in the way of the right people going on this journey.

Fresh Start is open for enrolment at 10am BST today, and the early bird price is available for 48 hours only. After that, it’s going up for good.

If you’re not already, join the waitlist to get the info. I can’t wait to see you inside.

Let’s get into it

I got a message this week, and it really caught my eye, because I have BEEN THERE:

First off, I love this question because I think a lot of us have felt this way at some point in our leadership journey, whether you’re managing a small team or a large one, whether you’re starting out or have a decade of experience.

The doubt creeps in, especially when you’re surrounded by people who seem to have it all figured out.

But here’s the important thing: no one’s leadership path is the same.

It’s easy to compare yourself to others and feel like you fall short, but let’s break this down.

#1 Your leadership style is unique - and that’s your superpower

“Softer” does NOT mean “weaker”.

In fact, softer leadership styles, those that prioritise empathy, active listening, and collaboration, are usually ones that build the strongest teams in the long run.

You may see others being more direct or authoritative, but that doesn't mean their style is better. It might just work for them.

It’s important to lean into who you are as a leader, not try to be who you think leadership should look like. You have been given the leadership role for a reason - trust and remember that.

#2 Quiet > Loud in leadership

Sometimes it feels like the ones with the most confidence, or the loudest opinions, must be the best leaders. But in my experience, the opposite of this is true.

If you’re sitting in a room full of strong personalities, don’t feel pressured to match their energy. Instead, focus on how you can contribute in ways that bring value. Sometimes that’s asking a question that hasn’t been considered, or quietly observing and offering insights later when you’ve had more time to reflect.

This (not shouting louder) will position you as the truest leader of all.

#3 Remember you’re not alone

It’s completely natural to feel like you don’t measure up, especially when you’re newer or less experienced.

But remember, the other managers in the room once felt exactly like you do now (and a lot of them probably still do).

Everyone has their own learning curve. The key is not to let self-doubt overshadow your actual capabilities.

Keep reminding yourself that you are qualified, and that your leadership style - no matter how different from others - is valid and effective.

#4 Growth > Perfection

I can’t even count how many times I’ve said this in a newsletter now. But it deserves to be repeated… Leadership is one big journey.

You’re SUPPOSED to feel unsure, you’re SUPPOSED to grow and improve.

The WORST leaders in my eyes, are those who believe they are fully formed and have nothing left to learn. Even when they’re 3/4/5 decades into the game. We must keep learning.

Lean into the discomfort a little. It’s all just stretching and learning.

You’ve got this. Your experience will grow with time. But what matters most now that you’re already committed to being the best you can be.

Big love today and always

H

P.S. When you reply to these emails they do come straight to my inbox for me to see - So never be afraid of letting me know what you think, or reaching out if you have any struggles. I’m here ❣️