The most unfortunate thing about self-doubt is that our fears often become self-fulfilling prophecies.
On the other hand, when we take action, more things automatically turn out for the better.
To silence your inner critic and regain your confidence:
- Stop and think.
Reflect on why you’re experiencing feelings of doubt. Thoughts such as “I can’t do this” and “I’m not good enough” become reasons to opt out of new experiences that could otherwise bring you many benefits.
- Develop greater self-awareness.
Often, when you feel insecure about your abilities, you start putting yourself down, leading to a cycle of frustration and procrastination. Try listening objectively to your inner critic. When you actively listen to yourself, you’ll most likely discover the self-doubt is unfounded. Focus on what you’re really good at and learn to use your strengths to achieve your potential.
- Ask yourself this question.
“Would you treat your best friend this way?” Would you tell her that she’s not clever enough, that she’s not good enough? Of course you wouldn’t. You’d tell her all the things you value about her, that you believe in her and support her as she work towards her goals. Treat yourself with the same (if not more) respect and kindness.
- Make a list.
Take a sheet of paper and make two columns. On the left side, write down all the doubtful thoughts you’re having right now. On the right side, list all of the positive FACTS that dispute those doubts. Keep going until you have a lot more positive FACTS listed than doubts.
- Make an appreciation folder.
Keep track of those kind words of appreciation you receive from others. When you’re experiencing self-doubt, it’s easy to forget about all of those wonderful comments you’ve received for doing things that made other people’s work and lives better in some way. Collect all of the emails, notes and cards that say kind and thoughtful things about you. Make a note of the things people say too.
When you feel the voice of your inner critic welling up inside of you, simply take out your appreciation folder to read and most importantly, believe those wonderful comments.
Self-doubt can rob you of the opportunity to reach new heights of success. While it’s very common to doubt yourself once in a while, you want to be able to easily let go of your inner critic when it pops up. Practicing the tips above will empower you to push through your self-doubt, boost your confidence, and clear the way for positive new experiences.
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