How do you know you’re an expert? Ever had your name on a “list”? Some lists you really don’t want your name on, like the ‘no fly’ list. But others can tell people something about you and your expertise.

The first time I made a list, I was pretty shocked. In 2015, I was named on the top 25 Professional Networking Experts to Watch by Forbes.

Super cool! I remember reading through and finding my name there… I was #8, how crazy! I had this moment where I thought, “Do I really deserve this?” My husband, who is typically the sounding board for these types of moments, was ready with some much needed perspective.

He said, “Being on the list is proof that you’re an expert in what you made the list for. Of course you deserve it.”

I needed that. Sometimes we need external confirmation of our abilities – and even then we need to reconfirm they are correct! Have you ever experienced this “fraud factor” moment?

It’s not a bad thing as long as it is only a momentary thought. It is okay to question yourself. That is what can propel you to continuous learning and growth.  Doubting yourself is when it becomes a problem.

At the end of the day, my internal (and external) reassurances helped me not just accept the honor but also to embrace it. That moment helped me accept recognition for what I have accomplished. I have worked hard to get to a place where I can call myself an expert — why not celebrate it?

It has actually inspired me to seek other opportunities as well. Where Forbes just selected me, one list I would be proud to be on through a nomination is the Thinkers50.

Thinkers50 was the first-ever global ranking of management thinkers and has continued to be an extraordinary resource for professionals in our industry. Their mission is based on the beliefs that ideas have power to change the world, management is essential to human affairs, and new thinking can create a better future.

Who can argue with that?