Sometimes that voice appears because we really need to hear it. It prompts us to review things that may need it, drawing our attention to something that wasn’t to a standard we’d normally produce.
The downside is that once it appears, that voice of self-doubt can be hard to silence. We’ve put together some ways to help you decide when to listen and when to push back on that voice of self-doubt.
Self-doubt often pops up in those moments when we have decisions to make. Not necessarily big decisions, but ones that make us feel uncomfortable or uncertain.
Being mindful
As with most negative influences, the first step to addressing it is recognising the signs. If we can identify this behaviour in ourselves, we can take steps to rectify it.
Jeena Cho, when writing for Forbes, notes that there are six major benefits of mindfulness. This list includes the reduction of anxiety and depression. If you’re not one to spend time meditating or stepping yourself through well-practiced mindfulness techniques, that’s okay. Simply taking the time to consider why you are doubting yourself and how this is making you feel physically is a mindful practice. Awareness of the physical impact of self-doubt can help you switch off that negative voice.
While self-doubt isn’t necessarily a symptom of anxiety or depression, it can lead to bigger issues if self-doubt sticks around long enough.
Confidence
You’ve no doubt heard the phrase “confidence is key”. But beware, there is a fine line between confidence and arrogance. You won’t be keeping self-doubt at bay if you’re being arrogant rather than confident.
Not confident? Well why not? If it’s about reaching a goal (or the fear of not reaching it), this is a goal you set. You set it for a reason – your “why”. Revisit your “why” and the importance of these goals.
“Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined.” – Henry David Thoreau
For most of us, confidence doesn’t always come easily.
Amy Gallo wrote this article for the Harvard Business Review and explored how to build confidence. You can do it! Put your game face on and get out there!
Take action
Once you’ve noticed the self-doubt train is in town and given yourself a bit of a talking to, it’s time to just move on! Negative thoughts and feelings can grow and fester if given energy.
Instead, focus your energy into that “happy place” and things that brighten your day with positivity. You’re the only one in control of your thoughts and feelings and you can’t expect anything other than YOU to change how you’re feeling.
Some people find it helpful to keep a journal. You might consider taking notes about when your self-doubt voice raises the alarm and what action you can take to restore your confidence.
What else helps to boost your positivity? The right soundtrack? Being around your friends? Getting organised?
Need some more ideas? Check out this list of 27 things you can do right now to improve your day and boost your confidence!
Next time you hear the self-doubt voice, remember to call yourself out, call on your confidence and then take action!
