How to overcome doubt
Doubt is a common companion on the journey to success, but it doesn't have to hold you back.
But if we all face it, we all suffer from its pain, then how can we overcome it? Do we ever overcome it?
Here are four strategies to help you overcome doubt and build confidence:
#1: Embrace Self-Compassion
Self-compassion is the foundation of resilience.
We’re not perfect!
Instead of being self-critical when doubt arises, treat yourself with kindness and understanding. We need to recognize that doubt is a natural part of growth and learning, and it doesn't define your worth or abilities.
Sure, this is easier said than done, and mostly because the world has a way of beating us into mush.
Don’t give up on yourself. Remember you are your own friend first! So, cultivate a mindset of self-compassion by acknowledging your emotions without judgment and offering yourself the same kindness you would to a friend facing similar challenges. And you can do this in private with close friends, the world doesn’t need to see your vulnerability…only a select few (at yourself).
#2: Challenge Negative Thoughts
Negative thoughts can fuel doubt and undermine your confidence. When you notice negative self-talk creeping in, challenge it with logic and evidence.
Are your doubts based on facts or assumptions?
Are your doubts serving you or holding you back?
If they have some truth to them, what can you do to fix it? Talk to someone, breakthrough in your relationship? But the gym more? What’s the thing that when done can improve the situation?
Replace negative thoughts with affirmations of self-belief and empowerment.
“I can do this”
“I get to do this”
Focusing on your strengths, past successes, and the possibilities ahead will reframe your perspective and start you on the path to challenging those thoughts.
#3: Seek Support and Guidance
Now this is a tough one.
Don't face doubt alone.
Reach out to supportive friends, family members, mentors, or colleagues who can offer encouragement, perspective, and advice.
Scary right?
“You mean to tell someone I doubt have it all together?!”
Yes, because none of us do.
Sharing your doubts openly and allowing others to support you through challenging times often provides a fresh perspective or a word of encouragement that will help you overcome doubt and regain confidence in your abilities. The people around us, if we pay attention, offer incredible insight into the lessons we need for our journey.
Let me copy and paste that one…
“The people around us, if we pay attention, offer incredible insight into lessons we need for our journey.”
#4: Take Action Despite Fear
Courage is not the absence of fear; it's the willingness to act in spite of it.
Instead of waiting for doubt to disappear before taking action, take the first step despite your fears. Because the truth is overcoming doubt is a forever journey. It’s not an absolute destination.
To break free from the paralysis of analysis and embrace the uncertainty of the unknown is by far one of the hardest yet most fulfilling things we can do. I’m reminded of my favorite quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson.
“To be yourself in a world that’s constantly trying to make you into something else is the greatest accomplishment.”
This is why we need to fight like hell for ourselves. On a plane, in case of an emergency, we’re told to put our own oxygen mask before helping others—yet we live our lives and careers by ignoring ourselves not understanding that for us to be present for them we need to have been present for ourselves.
Doubt may be a natural part of the journey to success, but it doesn't have to hold you back. By embracing self-compassion, challenging negative thoughts, seeking support, and taking action despite fear, you can navigate doubt with confidence and emerge stronger than ever before. And let’s face it—before the world turns us into mush.
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