Shalom Lamm on Silencing Self-Doubt: Overcoming Impostor Syndrome in Your Early Entrepreneurial Journey
Launching a business is an exciting, liberating experience. But for many new entrepreneurs, it comes with an unexpected shadow: impostor syndrome—the persistent fear that you’re not good enough, not qualified, or simply faking it.
Entrepreneur Shalom Lamm, who has founded and led ventures in real estate, nonprofit leadership, and business development, knows that voice all too well. Despite decades of experience and a track record of success, Lamm still remembers what it felt like at the beginning: overwhelmed, uncertain, and quietly asking himself, “Do I really belong here?”
His answer, and the lessons that followed, are a powerful reminder that impostor syndrome is common, but it doesn’t have to define you.
The Quiet Voice of Doubt
“Starting out, I felt like I was constantly waiting for someone to tap me on the shoulder and say, ‘Okay, you’ve been found out,’” Shalom recalls.
This feeling—despite being smart, capable, and prepared—is the core of impostor syndrome. It’s not tied to ability, but to perception. You may look successful from the outside, but inside, you’re questioning every decision.
According to Lamm, this internal struggle often stems from comparing yourself to others, especially in the age of LinkedIn success stories and Instagram entrepreneurship. “You see people who look like they have it all figured out, and it makes you feel like you’re miles behind,” he says. “But what you don’t see is their early chaos, their silent doubts. Everyone starts somewhere.”
Building Confidence Through Action
So how did Shalom Lamm push through the doubt? By taking consistent action—even when confidence was low.
“You don’t wake up one day suddenly believing in yourself,” he says. “You prove it to yourself through execution.”
Early in his career, Lamm set small, achievable goals. Rather than trying to build a multimillion-dollar business overnight, he focused on winning small deals, building key relationships, and learning from every step.
“I didn’t need to feel like an expert,” he explains. “I just needed to make one good decision today. That’s how you build momentum.”
This philosophy—progress over perfection—became a foundation for how he leads to this day.
Mentorship and Humility
Another strategy Lamm credits with overcoming impostor syndrome is seeking out mentors and surrounding himself with people who had been where he wanted to go.
“When you talk to people who’ve been through it, you realize just how common these feelings are,” he says. “Even the most accomplished leaders sometimes feel like they’re winging it.”
By being honest about what he didn’t know and asking for help, Shalom found not only guidance but also reassurance. He learned that humility is not a weakness—it’s a strength.
“Pretending to have it all figured out is exhausting,” he adds. “Being open to learning keeps you grounded and growing.”
Reframing the Narrative
One of the most powerful tools Lamm used to fight impostor syndrome was reframing his mindset.
Instead of thinking, “I don’t belong here,” he started asking, “Why not me?”
“When you step back, you realize that no one starts out fully ready,” he explains. “Confidence comes from doing. Belonging comes from showing up.”
Shalom began to view impostor syndrome as a sign of growth, not inadequacy. It meant he was stretching himself, stepping into new territory, and doing things that mattered.
“If you’re not at least a little uncomfortable, you’re probably not pushing hard enough,” he says.
Advice for New Entrepreneurs
For those currently navigating impostor syndrome, Shalom Lamm offers a few simple, powerful pieces of advice:
- Start Small – Focus on small wins. They add up.
- Document Your Progress – Journaling or tracking achievements helps you see how far you’ve come.
- Talk About It – Find a community or mentor who understands the struggle.
- Learn Publicly – Share your journey, not just your highlights. Vulnerability builds authenticity and connection.
- Give Yourself Grace – No one gets it perfect. You’re allowed to learn as you go.
Final Thoughts
Impostor syndrome doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you care. It shows you’re in unfamiliar territory, trying something bold. That’s not fraudulence—that’s courage.
Shalom Lamm’s journey proves that even seasoned entrepreneurs battle doubt, but it’s how you respond that shapes your future. So if you’re just starting out and questioning whether you belong, take his advice: show up, do the work, and let time and effort prove your place.
You don’t have to feel like a CEO to become one. You just have to keep going—even when you hear that little voice telling you otherwise.
