Episode 10

#10: From Self-Doubt to Self-Assurance: Let Go of What Others Think

Are you letting self-doubt hold you back in your leadership role?

Overanalyzing your words in meetings, second-guessing decisions, and hesitating to share bold ideas can limit your leadership potential.

In this episode of Promoted: Stop Doubting, Start Leading, we break down how to stop worrying about what others think and step into your power with confidence. Learn how to shift your mindset, own your expertise, and lead with authority—without seeking external validation.

Key Takeaways:

  • Stop overanalyzing and start leading. Most people are too focused on themselves to scrutinize your every move.
  • Over-explaining undermines your leadership presence. Say what you mean, trust your judgment, and let your words stand on their own.
  • Pushback isn’t a threat—it’s part of the job. Handling challenges with confidence earns respect, not over-explaining or backing down.
  • Validation-seeking keeps you playing small. Shift from needing approval to making decisive contributions.
  • Confidence attracts credibility. When you trust yourself, others will trust you too. Leadership is about conviction, not perfection.


"Respect comes from confidence, not people-pleasing."

If you’re a newly promoted manager or executive struggling with imposter syndrome, this episode is for you. Learning to detach from the fear of judgment allows you to lead with clarity, authority, and impact. By focusing on your contributions instead of second-guessing every interaction, you can accelerate your career and establish yourself as a strong, decisive leader

About the Podcast

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Promoted: Stop Doubting, Start Leading
Promoted: Stop Doubting, Start Leading helps professionals confidently navigate new leadership roles with actionable strategies and insights from former CEO and coach Karen Gombault.

About your host

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Karen Gombault

I’m Karen, and I know firsthand the challenges of building a passionate career.

As a former CEO with 30 years in corporate leadership, I'm now a leadership coach and mentor, working privately 1:1 with newly promoted and transitioning leaders who are struggling with self-doubt, team dynamics, and overwhelming responsibilities to lead with confidence, build strong relationships, and create lasting impact —without burnout or second-guessing.