Ask Me Anything: “Why does it feel like I’m holding myself back?”

I hear this question again and again from brilliant, high-impact leaders:

“I know I have the skills, the vision, the influence—so why does it still feel like I’m holding myself back?”

“Why do I hesitate, second-guess, or wait the right moment to step forward—when I already know what needs to be done?”

There’s a tension here—between what you know you’re capable of and what you allow yourself to step into.

And I need you to hear this: You’re already in your power.

The question isn’t how to step into it—it’s why don’t I trust that I’m already here?

Because when I look at the work you’re doing, I see it.

✨ The organization is already shifting in the direction of your vision.

✨ The ideas you quietly introduced are now being discussed at the highest levels.

✨ Your influence is already shaping outcomes, even if no one is explicitly handing you credit.

And yet—there’s a hesitation. A holding back. A part of you still waiting for something.

What is that thing?

A title? A formal invitation? A moment where it finally feels easy?

Or is it something deeper—an old belief that whispers: I have to prove myself first?

Where are you still waiting ?

Do you soften your voice, waiting for the right moment to assert what you already see clearly?

Do you defer to those with more experience, even when you know your instincts are right?

Are you still waiting for someone—some mentor, some other leader, some authority figure—to grant you permission to take up space?

Where are you still proving ?

When you share your vision, do you brace yourself for dismissal?

Are you over-explaining, over-justifying, overworking—trying to be undeniable before you allow yourself to fully step in?

What would shift if you walked into the room assuming that your leadership was already recognized?

Where do you give your power away?

When someone else voices your idea and gets credit, do you shrink or do you stand?

When you face resistance, do you start questioning yourself instead of questioning the system that resists change?

What’s the deeper fear that keeps you from owning your influence?

This is not about getting ready . It’s about recognising you already are.

This is the shift from being at the table to knowing you belong at the table—not because someone invited you, but because you built it.

From seeking approval → to holding authority

From explaining your vision → to inviting others to step into it

From worrying about their response → to trusting your own knowing

Because here’s the truth:

They are already listening to you.

They are already following your lead.

The only one left to convince—is you.

So, I’ll leave you with this:

Where are you still waiting? Where are you still proving? Where are you still making yourself smaller than you are?

And what would happen if—just for today—you showed up as if your leadership was already fully seen?

Because it is.

Love,

Rita

Ps. Work with me in private 1:1 where I´m your coach and thought-provoking partner. Step into greater leadership in your life and business every day in a relaxed, calm, and joyful way, with lots of support, inner and outer.

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