But I'm Not An Expert...

and other myths that hold you back

Ann Boger
September 19, 2023

Friends,

Welcome to the very first issue of Bramble and Birdseed, where I share tips, stories and resources to help you level up your own style of authentic leadership. Have feedback or suggestions? Get in touch! Know someone who might be interested? Share it!
Much appreciated, Ann

But I’m not an expert…

This thought used to dog me and it’s total bullshit.
Is it holding you back? If so, stop it.

Instead, flip the script: Thinking of yourself as an expert is a death knell to creativity and strategic thinking. You’d probably be self-important, fail to listen and start driving your team into the dirt.

You shouldn’t have all the answers. It’s more important to ask the right questions. Do you know what problems you’re trying to solve and why? Are you willing to ask hard questions? Do you have access to intelligence, including folks with the right technical or specific knowledge? Then you’re ready.

Sometimes it’s not about what you know. It’s about what how willing you are to learn.

Related Resources

Success 2.0: The Psychology of Self-Doubt | Hidden Brain Media

We all have times when we feel like a fraud. Psychologist Kevin Cokley studies the corrosive effects of self-doubt, and how we can turn that

hiddenbrain.org/podcast/the-psychology-of-self-doubt

In Praise of the Incomplete Leader

Reprint: R0702E No one leader can be all things to all people. It’s time to end the myth of the complete leader, say the authors.

hbr.org/2007/02/in-praise-of-the-incomplete-leader

Your Expertise May Be Holding You Back

The deeper your knowledge, the narrower your outlook.

hbr.org/2019/05/dont-be-blinded-by-your-own-expertise

Core Value Spotlight: Inclusive

At Bramble and Bird, we believe inclusive decision-making is the key for unleashing the power of diverse perspectives and creating a more just world.

When we buy-in to an archetype like “expert,” and then feel we can’t apply it to ourselves or others, we must stop and ask ourselves why.

When you close your eyes and picture an “expert,” is a tall, white man? Probably in a nice suit and expensive office. Maybe even a British accent?

This is a perfect example of a cultural bias steeped in patriarchy, classism and colonialism. Instead, ask yourself “what makes an expert? and who has those qualifications?” Look around - the answer might surprise you.