"Am I enough?": A Leadership Journey

It’s a thought many leaders wrestle with: Am I enough? Am I the right person for this role? These questions can create a mental pressure cooker that fuels overwhelm, urgency, and self-criticism. 

I recently had a powerful conversation with a client that illuminated this challenge and revealed how she was able to find clarity and confidence in her leadership. 

The Cycle of "Not Enough"

When we began our work together, my client, a leader in biotech, was overwhelmed by the belief that she wasn’t doing enough. The nature of her work—pioneering cutting-edge technology—demanded a high level of innovation and collaboration. Yet, her internal narrative created a sense of urgency that drained her focus and amplified the feeling of “not enough.”

She shared how this belief triggered what I call the “downward spiral”:

• Feeling the need to push harder to prove worth.

• That pressure creates overwhelm and self-doubt.

• A sense of isolation, feeling as though everything depended on her.

This cycle wasn’t just exhausting—it was counterproductive. The very qualities she needed to lead effectively—connection, clarity, and collaboration—were overshadowed by this relentless inner pressure.

Stepping Back to Lead Forward

Through our coaching work, she was able to step back and ask deeper questions about her role and purpose:

• Why am I here?

• What am I uniquely positioned to contribute?

• What does my role truly require of me?

In asking these questions, she realized her work wasn’t about checking endless tasks off a list or keeping up with external pressures. It was about something much deeper: building relationships—among her team, with their work, and with their shared vision.

Relationships may not be as tangible as deliverables, but they became the foundation for her team’s success in advancing groundbreaking technologies.

When she reframed her role in this way, something shifted. She could see that her contribution wasn’t just valuable—it was vital. 

She recognized that:

• She is enough.

• What she’s doing is enough.

• And the way she’s building relationships is essential.

This clarity freed her from the pressure to “do more” and allowed her to lead with ease, confidence, and focus.

This story isn’t unique to my client. So many leaders feel the weight of "not enough," especially in high-pressure roles. 

But here’s the truth: Leadership isn’t about doing more. It’s about being—being present, being connected, being intentional.

So, the next time you feel overwhelmed by the weight of “not enough,” take a breath, borrow a pro tip from us and repeat after me: 

“I am enough, and I’m not everything.”

I don’t need to be everything, because I’m enough. And from that grounded place, lead with the clarity and confidence that creates lasting impact.

So, what does your leadership look like today, knowing you are enough?

Let me know—and remember, you’re not alone on this journey of leadership. 

P.S. Ready to make 2025 the year you become a confident, fulfilled and effective leader? Applications are open for our new group leadership program “Leading From Solid Ground”. Space is limited—apply here.

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