From Validation-Seeking to Value-Creating: How to Step into Your Authority

In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about what it really means to lead with confidence, especially when you feel like you don’t belong. Are you constantly trying to prove yourself at work—working harder, saying all the right things, hoping others will finally see your value? My guest this week is Chris Marr, executive coach and author of Become an Authoritative Coach. In this inspiring conversation, Chris shares how his journey from people-pleasing and self-doubt to grounded self-respect transformed the way he shows up as a leader.

We explore how the need to be liked quietly undermines our authority, why true confidence is an inside job and how embracing your unique perspective can be your greatest leadership asset. Chris also shares practical strategies to show up with intentionality in high-stakes moments, how to stop over-performing to prove yourself and why setting clear rules of engagement helps build stronger, more honest relationships—at work and beyond.

About My Guest
Chris Marr is the founder of The Authoritative Coach and the author of Become an Authoritative Coach: Stop People-Pleasing, Challenge Your Clients, and Be Indispensable.

Chris has over 15 years of experience working with client-facing professionals and has helped individuals and teams across the globe—from small businesses to nine-figure enterprises—build stronger client relationships, navigate difficult conversations, and position themselves as indispensable experts.

What’s really fascinating about Chris is his obsession with client communication. He’s made it his mission to help professionals overcome people-pleasing habits, troubleshoot high-stakes client situations, and gain the confidence they need to truly thrive in their roles.

Chris’s work doesn’t stop there—he’s also the creator of the People Pleaser’s Path to Authority assessment, a tool that helps professionals identify and overcome habits that hold them back from doing their best work.

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Connect with Chris:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theauthoritativecoach/

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