Reminder: Self-Doubt Is A Liar.
Have you ever thought, I’m not sure I have what it takes?
Me too. Even after years of leadership, years of people telling me I have made a difference in their lives, I still wrestle with the same question: Am I enough for what is ahead?
Recently, I shared this with a friend who is a high-level leader who seems to have unending confidence, skills and success. I told her how I wished I had her confidence, her drive, her certainty. I shared that I doubted I had what it takes to do the things I am dreaming of. She smiled and said, “That is not a you problem. That is an everyone problem.”
She doubts too. Everyone does. The most capable, inspiring leaders you know all have moments when they wonder if they are in over their heads.
Self-doubt is not a sign that you do not have what it takes. It is a sign that you care deeply and want to succeed. But doubt is not a truth-teller. Doubt grows from fear of failure, fear of discomfort, fear of risk.
Let us call self-doubt what it is: the thoughts and feelings that come when we are stepping into something new, something big, something uncertain.
Self-doubt is trying to protect you, but instead it holds you back.
“Self-doubt does more to sabotage individual potential than all external limitations put together.”
Here are some helpful keys to overcoming self-doubt:
Notice when self-doubt starts speaking and create space between yourself and those thoughts. See them for what they are: protective habits, not true reflections of your ability or worth.
Coach yourself to choose courage. Collect resources like quotes, articles, podcasts and even songs that remind you to be brave when doubt appears.
Do not do life and leadership alone. Find people who can speak encouragement into your life and leadership. Build a community of people who encourage courage. (And remember, they need your encouragement too!)
You will doubt, probably daily. The key is to keep moving. To remember that courage is not the absence of uncertainty but the willingness to keep going even when you feel it.
“Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will.”
You will never be free of self-doubt. Courage and confidence are practices we choose in the midst of doubt.
So when doubt shows up, remember its over-protective intent. Turn you back on it, and keep walking forward.
With you in the journey,
Justine
Reflection: What small step could you take today, even with doubt whispering beside you?