We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Andy Brenits. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Andy below.
Andy, first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
Many of us grapple with imposter syndrome, and I’m not sure it’s something you ever fully overcome. However, one piece of advice has made a significant difference for me, and it can be summed up in two words: Don’t compare.
It took me a long time to realize that constantly comparing myself to peers, competitors, or industry influencers—especially on social media—fueled my imposter syndrome. When you’re constantly measuring your success against someone else’s highlight reel, it’s easy to feel like you don’t measure up.
The moment I stopped comparing and started focusing on my own journey, my growth, and the value I bring to the table, that feeling of being an imposter began to fade. Instead of looking outward for validation, I started looking inward, trusting in my own skills and experiences. This shift in perspective didn’t just lessen my imposter syndrome; it empowered me to embrace my unique path with confidence.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I’m a brand and creative strategy expert recognized for my award-winning work as an in-house creative director and independent creative consultant. I’ve dedicated my career to helping growing businesses compete with big brands by creating a consistent and impactful way to look, communicate, and act.
My journey began in boutique design studios in New York City, where I honed my skills before transitioning to in-house roles at major brands like Gap, NFL, and KPMG. These experiences gave me a solid foundation in creative and strategic thinking, which I now bring to my clients. Today, my work focuses on advising individuals and business owners on brand strategy, marketing, creative development, and standing out in an increasingly crowded market.
What excites me most about my work is the opportunity to help a diverse range of clients—from large organizations to solopreneurs and founder-led small businesses. Each project is unique, and I’m passionate about developing strategies that meet my client’s goals and resonate with their target audiences on a deeper level.
In addition to my consulting work, I’m deeply committed to education and mentorship. I’ve had the privilege of teaching visual design, marketing, brand strategy, and creative development to undergraduate and graduate students at institutions like Pratt Institute, MICA (Maryland Institute College of Art), and Columbia University. I’m incredibly passionate about sharing my knowledge and helping the next generation of creative professionals.
These days, in addition to working with solopreneurs, authors, experts, and coaches to develop their personal brands, I also offer coaching to other self-employed individuals, helping them stay productive and focused in their day-to-day work. I have also started a new venture with my good friend Robin McLoughlin, where we coach and advise leaders in marketing, creative, and communications ways to be better department managers and team leaders.
It’s an exciting time for my business, and I’m thrilled to continue expanding how I can support and empower my clients.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back, I can easily pick out three key skills that have been most impactful in my journey, and I believe they are essential for anyone early in their career to develop:
Build and Leverage Your Network: Your network is one of your most valuable assets. Early in my career, I realized that your connections—friends, family, colleagues, or acquaintances—can open doors to opportunities you might never have considered. Don’t just reach out to people when you need something; focus on building genuine relationships. Share what you do, listen to what others are doing, and always be open to giving and receiving help. Your network is more extensive and powerful than you think, and nurturing these connections can significantly impact your growth.
Master Attention Management: It’s easy to get overwhelmed by constant notifications, emails, and demands on your time. One of the most important skills I’ve developed is managing my attention rather than just my time. This means setting boundaries, prioritizing tasks, and allowing yourself uninterrupted time to focus on what truly matters. By protecting your time and energy, you can always work at your best and make meaningful progress toward your goals.
Stay Inquisitive and Embrace Problem-Solving: Curiosity and a problem-solving mindset have been instrumental in my success. Being curious pushes you to learn continually, explore new ideas, and stay adaptable in a constantly changing world. This mindset and strong problem-solving skills enable you to tackle challenges head-on and find innovative solutions. Every problem is an opportunity to learn and grow; embracing this approach can set you apart from others in your field.
Thanks so much for sharing all these insights with us today. Before we go, is there a book that’s played in important role in your development?
Tim Ferriss, who initially rose to fame with “The 4-Hour Workweek,” wrote two books I often recommend: Tribe of Mentors: Short Life Advice from the Best in the World and Tools of Titans: The Tactics, Routines, and Habits of Billionaires, Icons, and World-Class Performers. Imagine getting advice about life and work from dozens of mentors and coaches simultaneously. There isn’t one nugget I can impart since they are all good.
But the best recent nugget of wisdom came from an article by Justin Bariso on inc.com about the 2-word phrase I shared earlier to be happier and more successful. Don’t Compare.
In the article, he writes, “No matter how good things are going, there will always be someone who “appears” to be doing better. Appearances can be deceiving. And even if they aren’t, they are accompanied by challenges and difficulties I don’t see. Others’ achievements have nothing to do with my happiness.”
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.andybrenits.com
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andybrenits/
- Other: https://brenits.com
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