The first step in dealing with your self-doubt is realizing that to some degree, it will or should always be with you. Self-doubt in small doses is not a bad thing. It keeps you from making mistakes born of overconfidence. It forces you to question your beliefs, opening you to new ideas and ensuring that you don’t get entrenched into a single way of thinking. The vast majority of people are not strangers to wondering whether they are capable of performing at a level that will be expected of them in a new job or similar challenge. However, when self-doubt becomes crippling, it needs to be addressed.

Listen to Yourself

We often chip away at our belief in ourselves through constant self-criticism. If you are feeling doubtful or anxious about something, pay attention to the running commentary in your head. Chances are, you are saying things to yourself like you aren’t good enough or ruminating about what could go wrong. When you notice this happening, and to start with, you will have to force yourself to notice, you must change what you are saying to yourself. You don’t have to promise yourself that you will smash every goal in sight, but remind yourself that you are strong and capable. Talk to yourself the way you would talk to a loved one. The medical risks of stress are significant and reframing the way you speak to yourself can make a huge impact on your overall stress levels as they relate to self-doubt. 

Face Challenges

You might be surprised to learn that even people who have succeeded at many things still struggle with doubt. However, facing the fear of failure and going for it anyway will build your confidence. For some, this could come in the form of thinking that they won’t be successful at the education that they need for the job they want. College can feel intimidating both in terms of academic demands and the costs, but succeeding in getting your degree can set you up for future accomplishments. As for the expenses, consider Earnest private student loans as one way to cover the cost of tuition. Because private loans aren’t need-based, unlike federal loans, you may be able to borrow more to help cover the costs of books, tuition, rent, and more while you are in school.

Find Supportive People

Dealing with your own negative self-talk is one thing, but sometimes that discouraging litany of all the ways you aren’t good enough comes from people around you. If this rings true, do your best to limit your time around these people. Sometimes they are old friends and you haven’t realized that the relationship has grown toxic. Sometimes they are people you have no choice but to encounter regularly, such as coworkers, but you can share as little as possible with them. Sometimes, they are family members who may not even realize that they are doing it, and having a talk with them can help. Seek out others who can be more supportive. You might find them in a faith community, in hobby groups, among colleagues at work or even among professionals, such as a life coach or a therapist.

This article appears in Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2022.