By Phil Harwood

For many people, there is a small voice in our heads telling us that we’re not good enough, we’re not smart enough, and that sooner or later the world will discover that we’re just faking it. We have everyone fooled to think we have it all figured out, but we know we don’t. It’s only a matter of time. This condition is so common it has an official name.

The official name is Imposter Syndrome. Some of the most talented and famous people in the world have been faced with this predicament. It usually rears its ugly head just before the moment of truth, when you’re ready to walk out on stage, or walk into a meeting, or make a phone call. There is an overwhelming rush of self-doubt and fear, resulting in panic, dry mouth, sweaty palms, and, in the extreme, debilitation. 

One of the best ways to overcome the Imposter Syndrome is by knowing without a doubt that you are, indeed, not an imposter. And the best way to ensure that you’re not is by joining a peer group where you are able to be challenged and to remain at the forefront of your industry. I have been facilitating peer groups for several years and have seen, firsthand, the great value that is created when members are engaged, helping other members with issues they are facing, and supporting each other. 

If you didn’t know, our peer groups are comprised of members in similar roles and from non-competing companies. Our online peer groups meet monthly on a web-based platform. You may call in from your phone, even if you happen to be in the field, or you may connect through your laptop or desktop computer. Meetings are an opportunity to hear from each member about what’s working and not working, to ask for insight from other members, and to encourage each other. Meetings generally last about an hour or so.

GrowTheBench offers peer networking groups starting at only $97 per month. We are currently taking names for owners, senior managers, operations managers, and people involved in sales. If this something you might be interested in, please email me at Phil@GrowTheBench.com. We will launch each of these groups as soon as we have enough names on the list. Will you be the one to push us over the hump?

Now go forth.