Taking the non traditional path to leadership

“I went straight to work, so I always had a chip on my shoulder that I was not as bright as everyone else around me, so I had to go back to university to deal with that issue.” – Steve Butler

It is so often assumed that leaders have every opportunity to them on a plate.  A great school, great results, great career opportunities.  But no, for many this is not the case.

Many small business leaders didn’t follow the traditional academic path. And yet, they’ve built successful companies, led teams, and made real impact. Still, that lingering sense of “not being enough” can creep in, I see it particularly in people I coach and train who are in midlife (40 - 60 year olds)

.

Steve Butler who talked to me for The Unlikely Executive Podcast gave a powerful example of how not going to University played on his mind, so much so that he did learning outside work and is now on his way to secure a PhD.

Similarly I was training women in the construction sector and a good handful hadn't gone to university and up till the training had been feeling a sense of imposter.  By the end of the training, and talking to peers like them, they are now in a much more confident space, recognising the value that their lived experience brings to their teams, to business and to clients.

Over 50% of UK adults have experienced imposter syndrome; it’s more common among high achievers.    Those with non-traditional education paths often feel the need to “prove” themselves, despite strong performance.  

I currently mentor some brilliant leaders via the Help to Grow: Management programme which is designed specifically for SME leaders, again many  without formal business training, offering mentoring and peer support. 

When you know or think that you have that chip on your shoulder - whereever it has come from and what ever it is please do take time to do the following:

- Acknowledge your achievements.

- Talk about your career path as your story is likely to inspire others and help you own it.

- Invest in your own development—not to “catch up,” but to grow with purpose.

I offer:

- Coaching for midlife professionals navigating imposter syndrome, transitions, and confidence dips.

- Leadership development workshops tailored to small business realities.

- Support for non-traditional leaders who want to own their story and lead with clarity.

👉 Book a discovery call

👉 Or explore: Leadership vs Management