#32: How To Uplevel Your Self-Concept

You’ve got the title—now it’s time to step fully into owning it.

In this bold and honest podcast episode of Promoted: Stop Doubting, Start Leading, Karen dives into a challenge that nearly every newly promoted leader faces—but few can name: the identity lag.

When your title says “leader,” but your inner voice still whispers “doer,” your self-concept might be holding you back.

Karen shares a personal story about her own transition to CEO and the pivotal moment a coach told her, “You are not carrying yourself like a CEO.” That moment lit a fire—and in this episode, she walks you through how to ignite your own shift from outdated self-perception to empowered leadership identity.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re still playing small in a big role, this conversation is your wake-up call. It’s time to catch up to the leader you already are.

5 KEY TAKEAWAYS:

1. Self-concept sets your ceiling. Your internal story—not your resume—determines how you show up, lead, and influence.

2. Red flags of an outdated self-concept: over-preparing, hiding in execution mode, deflecting praise, or avoiding conflict.

3. Identity isn’t fixed. You can—and must—update your self-concept intentionally, just like you’d update your strategy or wardrobe.

4. Power language rewires your brain. Shifting how you speak to and about yourself reinforces new beliefs about your capabilities.

5. Your environment matters. Surround yourself with voices, people, and symbols that reflect where you're going—not where you’ve been.

“You can't outperform your self-concept. Yes, you are brilliant, capable, experienced. But if you are still carrying around a story about yourself that is outdated, your leadership and your impact is going to stay stuck.” — Karen Gombault

Your title got you in the room. Your self-concept determines how you lead in it. This episode will help you bridge the gap—and become the leader your role demands. Ready to stop shrinking and start showing up like the exec you are?

RESOURCES & NEXT STEPS:

Free Resource: Build Your Visibility At Work → https://www.karengombault.com/getnoticed

Start with Catalyst – A focused 6-week coaching sprint for rising executives → https://www.karengombault.com/catalyst

Go deeper with 1:1 Executive Coaching → https://www.karengombault.com/privatecoaching

Connect with Karen on LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/karengombault/