Getting a business off the ground requires a lot of work. Besides tackling the logistics and technicalities, other hurdles need to be overcome – like self-doubt,fear of rejection, and uncertainty.
Female entrepreneurs often experience imposter syndrome when running a business while being present for their families. They feel undeserving of their success and doubt that they can handle it all.
Cindy Monroe is an entrepreneur, leadership mentor, author, podcast host, wife, mother of two, and founder of Thirty-One Gifts. Serving as CEO for 20 years, she knows how to kick the imposter syndrome. Her story provides thoughtful reminders for aspiring female entrepreneurs and founders.
Cindy started her entrepreneurial journey in the basement of her home. As a young mother and novice, she often felt unqualified. Yet, she never stopped. Despite the doubts, she continued making bold decisions and seizing growth opportunities. Cindy realized the key factor was embracing change and moving forward, despite the inevitable setbacks and failures.
Her approach worked – Cindy grew her small hustle into an international women-run business. During her time as CEO, Thirty-One Gifts reached nearly $800 million in sales, 1,000 employees, and over 100,000 independent consultants throughout the U.S. and Canada. Cindy’s achievements garnered positive attention from the press, including being named to the Forbes list of Self-Made Women to Watch in 2015.
In her current roles as leadership mentor, author, podcast host, and Thirty-One’s executive chairwoman, she aims to help other women realize their potential and overcome their doubts.
“I believe that women need to see more representation of female founders running a business while having a marriage and a family. Many women think you can’t have both and must focus on one or the other. But I am here to share that you can do both,” says Cindy.
She wants women to create margins in their lives where there is room for creativity and ideas. Doing so will enable them to establish a boundary between personal and professional work. She also teaches women in leadership to transform their dreams into practical endeavors by breaking them into pragmatic steps, leaving little to no room for imposter syndrome.
To get more inspiration and practical advice from Cindy, listen to her podcast and follow her on Instagram.