Battling Imposter Syndrome

One part of transition that often gets overlooked—especially for high performers—is imposter syndrome.

You can spend over two decades succeeding in a demanding military career and still wonder, “Can I actually deliver in the civilian world?” It’s a different playing field. There’s no rank structure, no taxpayer-backed budget, and no safety net. Out here, results are tied to revenue, expenses and profits.  If you drop the ball, people don’t get paid, missions stall, and teams fall apart.

As I step into the role of Executive Director for Beyond the Brotherhood, a nonprofit helping Navy SEALs transition from military to civilian life, I feel the weight of that responsibility.

Can I serve our Fellows with excellence?

Can I lead our team of contractors, interns, and volunteers with vision and clarity?

Can I properly steward the trust and generosity of our donors while growing that support?

These aren’t just hypothetical questions. They’re the ones that now keep me up at night.

But here’s what I keep coming back to: transition doesn’t mean we stop leading. It just means we’re leading in a new environment. And just like in the Teams, the answer is rarely “go it alone.”

At BTB, our mission is clear: build a tribe, give our guys a new purpose, and help them achieve new goals. To every veteran taking on a new role in civilian life—whether it’s business, ministry, or nonprofit work—you’re not alone if you feel unqualified. Just remember: you didn’t become a warfighter overnight. You grew into it. And you’ll grow into this too.

Keep pushing, keep building, keep showing up.