How do I overcome self-doubt?
When we are in unfamiliar or difficult circumstances, it is reasonable to feel doubtful. Self-doubt is characterized by feelings of uncertainty about one or more aspects of oneself. It’s something that we could all encounter at some point in our lives. But when self-doubt starts to reduce us, that’s when we might need more strategies to get over it.
Self-doubt might result from attachment-style problems or unfavorable past events. Criticism is a common experience for those with insecure attachments, and it can lead to self-doubt in later life. Someone’s sense of worth might be severely damaged if they have previously been told they are “not good enough” or incapable of doing something. Furthermore, we face tremendous social pressure to achieve, which could work against us rather than for us.
Unaddressed, persistent self-doubt can result in:
- Uncertainty
- Depression
- Delays or a lack of enthusiasm
- Unstable emotions
- Low regard for oneself
- Having trouble deciding
What is imposter syndrome?
Self-doubt and imposter syndrome go hand in hand. Psychologists characterize it as the sensation of feeling deceived despite one’s accomplishments. Women and people of color experience imposter syndrome more than other demographic groupings. Imposter syndrome can make us less brave to pursue new possibilities or put ourselves out there in a meaningful way. It makes people wonder if they are “qualified enough” or doing “well enough” in their roles as parents, friends, partners, or in any other activity (even if they typically are).
An individual’s self-esteem can be severely harmed by imposter syndrome and self-doubt.
Nonetheless, there are strategies to overcome these emotions and boost our self-assurance.
1. Spend time in Self-Care
Keep in mind that we are all humans if self-doubt is preventing you from making a big move in your life, whether it be in your work or another area. It’s acceptable to make mistakes along the journey; we are all humans. We often underestimate our abilities because we don’t want to make mistakes. However, we also grow and change as a result of our errors. On the other hand, no matter what happens, we may practice being kind to ourselves and lessen our feelings of inadequacy and dread of failing.
2. Recall Your Past Successes
Do you recall a time when, despite your fears, you completed a task at work or school and it went incredibly well? Thinking back on specific instances where something difficult for us became something amazing is beneficial. Many great things come from moments of uncertainty or doubt. Since the same thing could occur right now, it is helpful to remind ourselves of the occasions when things have gone well.
Conversely, it is beneficial to avoid dwelling excessively on the past or any potential prior mistakes we may have made. Even if something didn’t work out the first time, there’s always a chance to try again in the present.
3. Try not to judge yourself against other people
Comparison is said to be the thief of happiness. This proverb is accurate in a lot of ways. It can be a crippling feeling to be filled with self-doubt because you’re worried that you won’t do anything to the same degree as someone else. Everybody has their own route and definition of success. Regardless of where other people are or have been, we can only control and concentrate on our path and where we wish to take it.
4. Pay Attention to What You Think
Sometimes it’s difficult to spot negative ideas when they start to surface because we get so accustomed to them. These pessimistic beliefs that tell us we’re not deserving of this position or that we can’t create quality work are the fuel that imposter syndrome feeds on. The next time these ideas come to you, stop and consider whether you truly think they are true. Think about how thinking positively can change your perspective and give you greater self-assurance.
5. Spend Time With Encouragement
Our supporters will always be our friends and family because they have faith in us and all that we are capable of. As you have self-doubt, be in the company of these folks. When you’re not feeling well about yourself, they might serve as a reminder of your abilities and fortitude.
6. Seek Internal Validation
It’s wonderful to hear from others that we’re doing a good job or that we can complete a challenging assignment, but it’s just as crucial to have confidence in ourselves. Continuous affirmation is meaningless if we don’t have confidence in ourselves. It’s beneficial to work on recognizing our strengths and everything that we have to give, even if we don’t feel the most confident about where we are right now.
7. Remind Yourself That You Are The Hardest Examiner
Would you have the same doubts about a buddy who started a new profession or how they raise their children as you do about yourself? Most likely, the response is no. We are the hardest people to judge when it comes to ourselves. It serves as a good reminder to stop being so hard on ourselves and start treating ourselves with the same love and compassion that we show to others.
8. Determine Your Principles
Consider your priorities and your values for a moment. It may be that you’re a good friend, that you treat others nicely, or that you make a significant contribution to something in your life. The anxiety of receiving negative feedback from others fades away when we embrace these principles and what is important to us. Being criticized or making mistakes also doesn’t feel as bad when we live according to our ideals.
9. Maintain a Journal:
Keeping a journal is always a therapeutic activity. Putting your self-doubt or imposter syndrome experiences on paper can help you let go of your worries. You might even find that, once you see them on paper, your worries are not as serious as you initially believed. This can help you overcome self-doubt bit by bit.
10. Get Expert Assistance
If self-doubt gets to the point that it’s hard for you to function in daily life, it might be helpful to contact a mental health expert. Therapy can provide us with methods to reduce doubt and foster a sense of understanding. One well-liked type of therapy that is particularly helpful for self-doubt is cognitive-behavioral therapy, or CBT. Through cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), we can acquire strategies to confront unhelpful thought patterns that could enhance our mood and general well-being.
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