Any type of self-doubt is natural. As we grow into who we want to be, we walk a new path even when we may not be ready to walk away from the old one. These inner and outer changes in our life can disturb the previous balance we fought so hard to create which can lead to fear which can harm our confidence. Through experience, I have collected 5 tips that can help over-come self-doubt.
Write it Out
Everyday your mind is filled with so many thoughts, and if your confidence is low, then it may be due to the weight of your mind. Take as little as 5 minutes to jot down what you feel unconfident about. Start with, “I don’t like how I …”, “I can’t decide on…”, or “I don’t know what to do now” and let the paper hold these thoughts for you. Then, when you are able to reflect, read what you have written and reflect on how these thoughts have affected you. Acknowledgment + reflection = growth.
Reflect on your achievements
Instead of dwelling on what you can’t do or don’t have, think about all that you do. No matter if you list what you have right now or what you have done over time, write or tell yourself the things you have accomplished. This creates mental space for you to acknowledge the times when you made things happen. Even if you had doubt during these times too, you still made a decision, learned a lesson, and ultimately created the great person you are today.
Practice Self-compassion
Just as you have learned to forgive others, forgive yourself. Be gentle with the being that you are as you evolve and grow into the “you” that you desire. Tell yourself, “it’s ok to feel like this” and provide reassurance that just like always, you will get through this. Be your number one advocate and supporter, and remember that some days you will have to love yourself more than others, and that’s ok.
Reduce Comparison
We tend to learn through comparison. Something is big when we compare it to something small, and something can feel like it takes forever when we compare it to something that took a second. In times of self-doubt, try not to compare who you are to others. This can be a counterintuitive action and not a learning tool, causing you to feel like you are ‘not enough’ and decreasing the energy you use towards your growth. Try to catch yourself when you see you are comparing your life, your actions, and your status to others, and stop that train of thought in its tracks. There’s only one you; cherish that unique being.
Reach out for Help
Like a Virgo, Leo, or Sagittarius, you may not want to, or know how to, ask for help, but the time is now. Put aside your fear, pride, or stubbornness and reach out for help. There’s apps like Talk Space or therapy sessions made through your insurance that can help you through this time of self-doubt. When asking for help, switch your perspective and think of it as using your strength towards a better you. This form of self-care will help you heal, grow and thrive again.