“I Don’t Belong Here” — How I Broke Free from Imposter Syndrome and Reclaimed My Confidence
"I don’t belong here."
That was the quiet fear I carried into every meeting room, every job interview, and every new role — even after years of success in the charity sector.
In this honest and powerful reflection, Duncan Batty shares how imposter syndrome shaped his career and how discovering the EmPower Mental Fitness programme changed everything. From small, practical actions to deep mindset shifts, this story is for anyone who's ever doubted their place in the room.
➡️ Read the full story and discover what’s possible when you stop surviving and start strengthening your mental fitness.
Induction – or just indemnity?
Duncan brings over 25 years of experience in fundraising, leadership, and social impact across the UK charity sector. From supporting young people and volunteers to strengthening our NHS and protecting natural spaces, his career has always centred around making a difference. Now, as a senior leader at EmPower Mental Fitness, Duncan helps individuals and organisations build lasting mental resilience. A graduate of the EmPower programme himself, he knows firsthand the transformational power of investing in emotional fitness — both for people and the workplaces they belong to.
Fundraiser Burnout: Adding to the Research.
Fundraising is tough work — and for too many, it’s quietly taking a toll on mental health. In this powerful follow-up to Michelle Reynolds' report on fundraiser wellbeing, Alan Clayton draws from decades of research, personal experience, and insights from EmPower Mental Fitness to explore what’s getting worse, why burnout is on the rise, and most importantly, what we can do about it. This blog shines a light on the hidden epidemic of isolation in the sector and offers one of the simplest but most transformative solutions: real human connection.
Taking Action on Stress
What if you could face life’s most stressful moments with confidence—knowing you won’t break? In this powerful blog, Alan shares his personal journey from stress and burnout to resilience and strength. Discover the science-backed approach behind EmPower Mental Fitness and how simple, repeatable actions can transform your ability to handle stress. Ready to take control of your mental fitness? Read more inside.
Alans’ Story: From break-down to purpose this is a deeply personal journey.
One of our founders (please meet Alan) created the programme for himself. The root of this is in multiple Adverse Childhood Experiences and he has lived with much anxiety and some addictions. Although sober for years, the COVID lockdowns, in his own words ‘broke him.’
Marys' Story (*): Proving your future doesn’t have to live in your past
EmPower: for people like Mary. Read her story to learn how EmPower helped her build resilience, joy, and unlock the power of connection.
Chris' Story (*): From Fragile to Strong Mental Health.
EmPower: for people like Chris. Read his story to learn how EmPower helped him reclaim control over his mental health and life.
Something important, but a bit different
We’re navigating unprecedented challenges in work, life, and society, and more than ever, we need spaces that offer real solutions, honest conversations, and a community that’s driven by purpose, connection and action.