Why do some of us stay behind when there is an opportunity?

Why do we keep silence in a group when there is a question in our head?

Why do we assume we cannot do a task as well as another person without even trying?

It’s because we doubt if we can meet expectations, if we will say the right thing or if we have the skill to do the task. We fear failure. Self-doubt is a silent villain. It takes various forms and shapes.

Everyone feels self-doubt at some point in their life. Situations and surroundings shape peoples confidence. It’s ok to doubt your abilities or not even know what you are capable of in the first place. We all have self-doubts at some places/times and we are confident in other places/times.

The problem with having self-doubts is that we end up not taking risks. We stay in our comfort zone and sometimes don’t even attempt for things. When we are forced out of the comfort zone and have to take the job we feel nervous or anxious. Even success comes with a lot of stress because a lot of energy goes into questioning our ability and making ourselves believe we are capable. Self-doubt blocks us from reaching our potential and hampers our growth.

Since I’m writing this blog you might think I have overcome the habit of self-doubting. Unfortunately I haven’t overcome but I’m aware when it comes and I know I have some work to do with self-doubt.

Here are some tips.

• When thoughts and doubts flow, let it flow. When you push it off, it comes back stronger in a few minutes. So acknowledge that you are doubting your abilities. Thats the first step.
• Read a motivating affirmation such as “Yes I can and I will”. Repeat it many times. Affirmations work well as an antidote for self-doubt.
• If someone says you cannot do something well what will you tell them back? Now you are dragging yourself down. It’s time to have a conversation with your self-doubt. Probe on the why and the what.
• I personally try to take the burden and pressure off me by reminding myself that I’m just a tool and my role is to be useful. Give your ego a break and think yourself as nothing but a tool for making things happen in this world. When the pressure is off you can think clearly.
• Take a small actionable step. Try not to think about the outcome. When I have the self-doubt voices, I tell myself I hear you but I’m going to try it anyway by taking a small step. When fear flows through your body think of small actions you can take.
• Shift focus from I to We. You can make impossible to possible by getting help or working as a team. Even when you are working alone remember you have forces of nature with you. You are never alone!

Self-doubt is not our enemy. It can just over protect us sometimes. Catch yourself when you are doubting your abilities. There are so many articles on the internet to boost your confidence. I hope my tips might also come in handy.

Your dreams are your purpose.Don’t kill your dreams. You can and you will! Forces are with you! Go for it!