Self-doubt is a feeling most of us are familiar with. It's that nagging voice inside your head that questions your abilities, accomplishments, and even your worth. A certain low level of self-criticism can be a good source of motivation. It use may inspire you to work harder and hone your skills to increase your confidence. But too much doubt and fear can hold you from performing well and reaching your full potential and leading a fulfilling life.
Self-doubt is learned. No one is born with self doubt, children typically move through the world with plenty of confidence. By the time you reach adulthood, your natural confidence has been undermined by the opinions of others and by your own experience.
In this post, I'll discuss strategies to overcome self-doubt and boost self-confidence.
Understanding self-doubt
Self-doubt is learned. No one is born with self doubt, children typically move through the world with plenty of confidence. By the time you reach adulthood, your natural confidence has been undermined by the opinions of others and by your own experience.
Self-doubt is often a result of unrealistic expectations and harsh self-judgment. Many people hold themselves to impossible standards and then criticise themselves when they inevitably fall short. Over time, this cycle of high expectations & self-criticism can erode self-confidence and fuel self-doubt.
Strategies to overcome self-doubt
✨Cultivate self-awareness: Recognise and acknowledge your feelings of self-doubt. By understanding your triggers and patterns, you can begin to change them.
✨Challenge negative thinking: No one holds us to a higher standard than yourself. Learn to identify and challenge negative thoughts. Instead of accepting these thoughts as facts, question them and replace them with more positive and realistic beliefs. Apologising to yourself is one of the most important steps toward healing and moving forward.
✨Celebrate your achievements: Recognise and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. This can help you build confidence in your abilities.
✨Focus on your desires: Discovering how to overcome self-doubt means giving more power to your desires than to your fears. When you are more afraid of what you’re going to miss out on than of any negative consequences that will come from failure, that’s when your life leaps from ordinary to extraordinary.
✨Practice self-compassion: Treat yourself with kindness and understanding, just as you would treat a friend. Self-compassion can help break the cycle of harsh self-criticism that fuels self-doubt. Look at yourself in the mirror and say three positive affirmations at the beginning of every day.
✨Start journaling: Make an effort to record what you’re thankful for and what you’re proud of doing each day. Your journal may cover everything from earning a promotion at work or remembering to do the dishes. The more frequently you practice loving yourself, the easier it gets.
✨Find validation from within: While it’s great to feel reassured from others that you are doing a good job or that you are capable of accomplishing a difficult task, it’s equally important to have your own faith in yourself. Constant reassurance doesn’t mean much if you still don’t believe in yourself. Even if you aren’t the most confident about where you're at, it’s good to practice being accepting oft your strengths and all that you have to offer.
✨Seek support: Don't hesitate to seek support from trusted friends, family, or a mental health professional. Talking about your feelings and experiences can provide a fresh perspective and validation.
Overcoming self-doubt is a journey that requires patience, practice, and self-compassion. By cultivating self-awareness, challenging negative thinking, celebrating your achievements, practicing self-compassion, and seeking support, you can gradually overcome self-doubt & build self-confidence.
Remember, you are capable, and you are enough just as you are.