Pulling Back the Curtain

Lynn Bruines Author Interview

Secrets of a Social Butterfly is part memoir, part business guide that shares your transformation from a struggling student to a confident global business strategist. Why was this an important book for you to write?

I wrote Secrets of a Social Butterfly because I know what it feels like to doubt yourself, to feel like you don’t quite belong, and to struggle with confidence in professional settings. This book was my way of pulling back the curtain and sharing the lessons I wish I had known earlier. I wanted to show that confidence isn’t something you’re simply born with—it’s a skill you can develop, and it can change the course of your career or business.

What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?

I wanted to show that personal growth isn’t a straight line. I’ve had setbacks, doubts, and moments of imposter syndrome. But every challenge brought lessons that helped me grow, and I wanted readers to see that their struggles don’t define them—the way they navigate them does.

What is one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you were younger?

I wish someone had told me: You don’t need to have all the answers to move forward. Just take the next step.

I spent so much time in my early years overthinking, second-guessing myself, and waiting until I felt “ready”—but the truth is, clarity comes from action. Every small step, every new experience, every conversation builds confidence. If I had understood that sooner, I would have trusted myself more and embraced opportunities without so much hesitation. This is also why I launched my popular weekly newsletter Ready Already!

What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your story?

If you feel like you don’t quite belong, or you’re unsure of your next step, you’re not alone. I’ve been there. But when you focus on building relationships, staying curious, and showing up as your authentic self, doors start to open. You don’t have to change who you are to succeed—you just need to lean into your strengths and learn how to navigate the world in a way that works for you.

Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website

“Secrets of a Social Butterfly’’ Isn’t a business handbook. Nor is it a memoir. It is, in fact, both of those things. The narrative traces Lynn’s metamorphosis from navigating significant challenges in her education to becoming a confident business relations expert with an extraordinary career spanning ten countries around the globe.
All of us have experienced those moments of imposter syndrome, struggled to fit in, and have even been bullied for being different. Lynn’s inspiring story takes us on an incredible journey of overcoming setbacks that led to Lynn’s inspiring journey around the world.
Sometimes funny, often poignant, “Secrets of a Social Butterfly” uses storytelling to teach business leaders, founders and anyone really, those ‘unteachable’ skills that we desperately need in this ever changing landscape in which we find ourselves.
This unique narrative nonfiction work blends business insights with learning moments from Lynn’s memoir, offering lessons on going from self-doubt to success.


Posted on March 31, 2025, in Interviews and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink. Leave a comment.

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