Overcoming Leadership Imposter Syndrome as a Small Business Owner

Let’s talk about something I see all the time...

When I ask small business owners if they see themselves as leaders, they usually laugh and say,
“Oh no, not me I’m just trying to keep up!”

But here’s the truth:
Every single day, I see business owners showing more leadership courage than they realise.

They’re making tough calls.
They’re guiding clients.
They’re managing priorities, setting direction, mentoring their team even if it’s just one contractor, a casual staff member, or their kids watching from the kitchen table.

That’s leadership.
It might not look like what we see in corporate handbooks, but it’s real, human, small-business leadership in action.

Why So Many Small Business Owners Don’t Feel Like Leaders

Let’s be honest, most of us didn’t start a business thinking, “I can’t wait to be the boss.”
We started because we were passionate about something: baking, design, wellbeing, photography, community impact, or solving a problem no one else was fixing.

Somewhere along the way, though, business ownership turns into people management, decision-making, and problem-solving on repeat.

And suddenly you realise you’re leading, but no one handed you a manual.

Add to that the pressure of comparison:

• Seeing “professional” leaders online who seem to have it all together
  

• Feeling underqualified to guide others
  

• Doubting if you’re “doing it right”
  
  

That’s when leadership imposter syndrome creeps in.

What Leadership Imposter Syndrome Sounds Like

If any of these phrases sound familiar, you’re not alone:

“I’m not really a leader, I just do what needs to be done.”
“Who am I to give advice or direction?”
“I don’t know enough to lead anyone yet.”
“I’m just figuring it out as I go.”

The truth?
All great leaders are figuring it out as they go.
Leadership isn’t about having all the answers, it’s about showing up, asking better questions, and taking responsibility when things don’t go as planned.

What Real Small-Business Leadership Looks Like

Here’s what I see every week from the small business owners I mentor:

• Showing up for their business even on the tough days.
  

• Taking a leap on a new idea, even when it feels uncertain.
  

• Having hard but honest conversations with clients or staff.
  

• Asking for help instead of trying to do it all.
  

• Making decisions guided by their values, not trends.
  
  

That’s courage.
That’s consistency.
That’s leadership.

 Small Business Leaders: Laura Mudge of Smudge Digital, Angela Pickett of Angela Pickett Copywriter, Penelope Dodd of Penelope Dodd Business Coach, Shelley Cox  of Your Business Compass

Leadership Isn’t a Title It’s a Practice

You don’t become a leader because you have a team or a big job title.
You become a leader through the actions you take the small, quiet, brave things you do every single day to move your business forward.

Leadership is:

• Staying calm when things go wrong.
  

• Learning from mistakes instead of hiding them.
  

• Communicating clearly and kindly.
  

• Creating an environment where others feel safe to do their best work.
  
  

How to Start Owning Your Leadership (Even If You Don’t Feel Ready)

Here are five simple ways to build your leadership confidence starting right where you are:

1- Acknowledge what you already do well.
Write down three decisions or actions you’ve taken this month that show leadership.

2- Reflect, don’t criticise.
When things go wrong, ask: “What did I learn here?” instead of “Why did I mess that up?”

3- Communicate with clarity.
Leadership grows through communication even a 10-minute check-in with a staff member or supplier can create trust and direction.

4- Keep learning.
Leadership is a skill that strengthens with practice. Listen to podcasts, read, or join a program like Your Business Compass where you can grow with guidance.

5- Lead your way.
You don’t have to fit a mold. Whether you lead quietly or boldly, your business — and your community — need your version of leadership.

You’re Already Leading

So next time you doubt whether you’re a “real” leader, pause and look at the evidence:
You made something out of nothing.
You take responsibility for your own results.
You show up, make decisions, and keep learning.

That’s not just running a business.
That’s leadership in motion.

You might not have the title, but you’ve got the heart and that’s where great leadership begins. 💛

If you’d like to explore your leadership strengths and build more confidence in how you lead yourself and your team, join our membership for our free Small Business Leadership Checklist https://www.yourbusinesscompass.com.au/leadershipchecklist or join Your Business Compass Online Course for guided support and structure.

👉 https://www.yourbusinesscompass.com.au/your-business-compass-course