THE SURPRISING GIFT OF DOUBT
Use Uncertainty to Become the Exceptional Leader You Are Meant to Be
Are you a high-performing leader haunted by self-doubt?
What if that doubt isn’t a weakness, but your greatest asset? What if it’s actually signaling you’re on the verge of a leadership breakthrough?
Your Doubt is Telling You Something Important
Most leaders experience a moment when they realize they don’t have all the answers. You’ve likely hit milestone after milestone, with people looking to you for direction. Yet inside, you feel like you’re just making it up as you go along.
This doubt isn’t a signal to retreat—it’s an invitation to advance into what Marc calls “Quadrant 3 Leadership,” where you’ll discover:
- How to turn uncertainty into your leadership superpower
- A practical framework to find your authentic leadership voice
- Tools to create leadership systems built specifically for you, not forcing you into someone else’s mold
- A path from feeling “broken” to recognizing the wonderful gift you are to your organization
Beyond Copying Others or Following Gurus
Leadership isn’t about mimicking others or following rigid formulas. It’s about developing your own authentic leadership style based on your unique:
Hardwiring
Discover your natural abilities and strengths instead of fighting against them
Identity
Uncover and reshape the stories that determine how you show up as a leader
Goals
Clarify what truly matters to you and your organization to drive focused action
In The Surprising Gift of Doubt, Marc guides you on this journey, showing you how to create the leadership approach that’s authentically yours.
For Leaders Ready to Move Beyond Impostor Syndrome
This book is your roadmap if you’re:
- A CEO or executive director feeling the pressure of leadership isolation
- A rising leader preparing for your next career step
- A board member or volunteer who’s stepped into leadership
- Anyone who’s experienced that nagging voice suggesting “you’re not good enough”
What Others Are Saying
“In a world promising magic formulas and 3 steps to success, in The Surprising Gift of Doubt, Marc Pitman delivers what leaders actually need: a process and tools to discover your inner truth, allowing you to lead with sincerity, confidence and effectiveness. Rather than running from doubt, you will see it for what it is: the key to your own strength and point of view as a leader.”
“The Surprising Gift of Doubt is an engaging read full of practical advice and tools that will help you on your leadership journey. Marc deftly and confidently leads readers through the hard, necessary work of understanding themselves and the unique contributions they can make both in their organizations and their personal lives.”
“A massively effective framework for self-awareness and leadership development that is practical, approachable, and actually doable. Bravo!”
Order Now!
And begin your Quadrant 3 Leadership Journey!
Available in print, ebook, and now as an audiobook narrated by Marc with exclusive bonus content!
Want copies for you entire leadership team?
Bulk discounts are available through Porchlight Books
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And begin your Quadrant 3 Leadership Journey!
FAQ: “The Surprising Gift of Doubt”
What is “The Surprising Gift of Doubt” about?
This book helps leaders reframe self-doubt as a signal of growth rather than a flaw to eliminate. Marc A. Pitman guides readers to see doubt as a turning point—an invitation to lead with deeper confidence and clarity rooted in their unique strengths.
Who is this book for?
The book is written for leaders who have achieved some success but feel stuck, burned out, or like they’re secretly faking it. It’s especially useful for executives, nonprofit professionals, entrepreneurs, and coaches seeking more sustainable, authentic leadership.
Do readers need to have read Marc’s other books first?
Not at all. This book stands on its own. However, readers familiar with Ask Without Fear! or Marc’s coaching work will recognize his signature clarity, empathy, and practical encouragement.
Is this a typical step-by-step leadership manual?
No. Rather than offering a rigid formula, The Surprising Gift of Doubt introduces a flexible framework—Marc’s “Four Quadrants of Leadership”—that adapts to each reader’s stage of development.
What’s the “surprise” in the title?
The surprise is that doubt—so often seen as a problem—is actually a powerful signal that a leader is ready to grow. Marc shows how embracing this discomfort can unlock leadership breakthroughs and renewed confidence.
How is this different from other leadership books or trainings?
Most leadership books focus on tactics. Marc goes deeper, helping readers trust their wiring, understand their motivation, and develop their own leadership style. The book blends self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and practical tools.
Is this a good pick for leadership teams or book clubs?
Yes. Many teams and leadership cohorts use this book as a shared resource. Its self-reflective exercises and conversational tone make it highly effective for group discussions and retreats.
Is the content more personal growth or professional development?
Both. While rooted in leadership, the book is deeply personal. It encourages readers to explore their identity, motivation, and values—not just their skills or performance.
Can it be used as a coaching tool?
Absolutely. Coaches, consultants, and managers frequently use the Four Quadrants and Integrity Model to help clients or team members move through periods of doubt and emerge as more grounded, effective leaders.
Where can readers or organizations learn more?
More resources and speaking inquiries are available at ConcordLeadershipGroup.com, or by reaching out to Marc directly.
“This book fills the gap between being named a leader and truly performing like one.”
