Overcoming Self-Doubt and Negative Feedback as a Young Board Member

When I received the invitation to join my credit union's board, I was immediately overwhelmed. TRUE Community Credit Union is a pillar in the community. They do impactful work, the team is incredibly talented, sharp, and is pushing the status quo for what diverse and impactful leadership looks like. The CEO has a nickname, Little Thunder, because she is dynamic, brilliant, and is a force for organizational growth. The email felt surreal, as though it had been mistakenly sent to me. Surely, the CEO had intended it for someone with more experience, more knowledge, more... everything. But as reality set in, I had a choice to make: Would I rise to the occasion, or would I let self-doubt take over?

In my search for guidance, I turned to someone I considered a trusted advisor and mentor. I was eager to receive encouragement and insight, especially since this individual was familiar with the organization and the CEO. However, his response was anything but reassuring. With a scoff, he questioned, "Why would they ask you? You’re not ready."

Those words cut deep, leaving me gutted and questioning my worth. I wish I could say I brushed it off, but instead, I agonized over whether I was wasting my time and theirs. Was this opportunity just a form of virtue signaling? It took a significant amount of courage to submit my application, and though I eventually did, that initial response still lingers in my mind.

Unfortunately, my experience isn’t unique. Many young professionals face similar doubts from well-meaning leaders, friends, and colleagues. Often, age is seen as a barrier to success, with assumptions that youth equates to a lack of experience or understanding. These comments, while sometimes well-intentioned, often reflect more about the speaker’s insecurities than they do about our capabilities.

So, what can we do about these negative voices? It's important to recognize that while feedback should always be considered, it should not be allowed to dominate our narrative. If we let negative feedback control our decisions, we will never take the risks necessary for growth.

In my journey, I’ve found that intentionality, vulnerability, and mentorship are key to overcoming self-doubt. Being authentic about what you do and no not know will help build trust with other decision makers and in turn will help you trust yourself. These moments of authentic vulnerability allow for learning and growth. When faced with negative feedback, ask yourself: Is there truth in this? What can I learn from it? But more importantly, don’t let it stop you. Instead, use it as fuel to prove your worth and seize new opportunities.

Being a young board member is challenging, especially when faced with skepticism from those around you. But remember, you were chosen for a reason. Embrace the opportunity, push through the doubt, and show the world what you’re capable of. After all, the only way to truly know if you’re ready is to take the leap and try.