Processing Imposter Syndrome

To say I’ve been absent on the blog over the summer would be an understatement. As many of you know following the Skedaddle, Chelsea and I welcomed our first born Violet. If you follow me on Instagram or Facebook you are well aware of this, because I’ve been posting photos of her for five months straight, with no sign of stoppage coming soon.

I cannot begin to describe all of the joy and excitement each day brings with a baby at home. Fatherhood has brought immense personal joy into my life, but I’ve had to face a lot of “stuff” this summer. I was recently asked during a podcast appearance if I’ve dealt with imposter syndrome. The feeling of inadequacy despite success. Nagging self-doubt that makes you feel like you are doing nothing right.

As a business owner, member of non-profit boards, general manager of the shop, co-worker and athlete; I certainly felt like an imposter many times throughout the summer. To veteran parents, I’m sure reading this is almost comical, but seriously a baby changes everything. The reality of the situation is my list of commitments is long, but only one thing holds the top spot. My top priority is to be a great husband and father. For me being able to process that; the fact that my other commitments don’t get top billing from me has been a challenge.

How am I not an imposter if I’m not all-in on the business, or all-in on my volunteerism or all-in on training?

As a young adult I found John Wooden and his pyramid of success. When I left South Dakota State University I studied Wooden in depth more than any subject I tackled when I was actually in school. Not only was Coach Wooden a champion on the basketball court, he was a champion at life. As I’ve struggled with imposter syndrome I was reminded of one of his many famous quotes.

“Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are.”
― John Wooden  

What this all comes down to is time. I cannot focus on what others think and I’ve got to stay focused from moment-to-moment. So while I can’t commit as much time to everything that I once could, that doesn’t mean I’m not working hard or committed to the things that make me, me. Now that we’ve covered all of that I’m happy to say that today I’m back on the blog! You can also follow me on YouTube, Facebook or Instagram. Most importantly I’m still here at the shop on a regular basis too and would love to chat about your running adventures and how we can help you achieve your running goals.   

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Greg Koch is the Co-Owner and General Manager of 605 Running Company and Co-Produces the Sioux Falls Skedaddle Half Marathon. He serves on the Board of Directors for Downtown Sioux Falls, the 605 Race Crew and the Sioux Falls Area Running Club. When Greg isn’t with his family or working he enjoys being outside biking, kayaking, golfing or playing church softball.

​Instagram: gregrun605
YouTube: 605 Running Company
Facebook: facebook.com/greg.koch.583 

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