I have been toying with the idea that I might be an expert. You see the term has always been a bit ‘braggy’ for me…. Yes, I try my best but an expert, not sure? I thought I’d investigate.
The definition of expertise says… ‘An expert is somebody who has a broad and deep competence in terms of knowledge, skill and experience through practice and education in a particular field.’ (Wiki)
A quick search on google and I came across an article that listed the 7 signs you are an expert
More knowledge than others
Recognised credentials
You can demonstrate experience
Proven track record of success
Many testimonials
You understand failure
Other experts refer to you
After reading that list my first instinct is to say “No, how can I possible be an expert when I don’t know everything…..and I’ve not got everything on that list ticked off”
Then Imposture syndrome hits…
Many of you I am sure have had thoughts at one stage or another that were impostor like. According to Wiki “Impostor syndrome is a psychological pattern in which one doubts one's accomplishments and has a persistent internalized fear of being exposed as a "fraud".
This image demonstrates some of the base line thinking about Imposter Syndrome. It is exactly how I feel sometimes. Again, we are back to me not knowing everything.
So ‘How much do I know?’
The ‘10,000 hours of mastery’ theory was popularized by Malcom Gladwell. It suggests that 10,000 hours of deliberate practice and you would master anything. In recent times this rule has been debunked, with many suggesting its not the time that is important but the practice. The practice needs to push your skills set.
I’ve been running and growing businesses for many years. I’m am constantly looking to develop my skills and believe in always trying to improve one’s skills. Maybe I am getting closer to that expert thinking.
I now understand and am more comfortable with the fact I don’t know everything. (Remember Nicola, neither does anyone else.) What I do know is value to others that need that sort of help.
For the other stuff, I surround myself with professionals that have the expertise I don’t have. Say Hi to #TeamNRG.
Now I feel I can say that The Nicola Rylett Group has many years of business expertise and I am proud to talk about how we help others transform their businesses. This video tells you more about the skill set for #TeamNRG. Let me know what you think. (Feedback is always great.)
Call yourself an expert…
Do you practice your skills everyday, pushing yourself to improve?
Are you someone others look to help with challenges?
Do you have a mindset to learn from everything?
Do you understand the value of the experience and skills you have?
Can you prove your skills and knowledge have led to success in your field?
Then you are an expert. Congratulations.
Further reading on Imposter Syndrome.
I liked this chart. What impostor type are you?
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