No more self-doubt
12 Strategies and exercises for a positive self-image.
We all experience a fair or unfair amount of self-doubt from time to time. There is actually what I call ‘healthy self-doubt’ that prevents us from harming ourselves and helps us to notice when something is dangerous. Still, the part I want to talk about is the paralysing self-doubt that makes us incapable of doing the things that give us an advantage and makes us grow the most.
And I am not talking about huge acts of courage but things like making a phone call, sending an invitation, asking for a promotion, saying: “That’s enough”, saying No, saying Yes, and making a start on that project you always wanted to do.
I was for years putting off creating a blog for thoughts like these:
- English is not my first language, no one will want to read what I write
- I will mess up and make a fool of myself
- What will people say?
- I’m not smart enough, talented enough, capable enough, experienced enough.
- I don’t know enough about marketing.
- There are so many people writing about the same things, why someone will read my stuff?
Until one day I decided that my blog doesn’t need to be perfect and it doesn’t even need to be profitable because this is what I want to do for the rest of my life and it doesn’t matter how long it takes me to learn what I need to make it work.
You have to become aware of that voice in your head and realise that it’s not you and you can’t believe what it says.
I will give you 12 strategies and exercises that I used to eliminate my self-doubt but you have to take action or knowing the following techniques won’t make any difference. The good news is that you don’t have to do them all. If you pick the right one for you and practice it daily, you will see a difference within a week.
1- Positive Affirmations:
- Develop a list of positive affirmations that counteract self-doubt.
- Repeat these affirmations daily to reinforce positive beliefs about yourself.
2- Visualisation:
- Imagine yourself succeeding in various aspects of your life.
- Visualise achieving your goals and notice how the confident version of yourself looks, feels, and acts.
3- Gratitude Journaling:
- Regularly write down things you are grateful for.
- Focusing on positive aspects of your life can shift your mindset.
4- Challenge Negative Thoughts:
- Pay attention to negative thoughts and challenge their validity.
- Replace negative thoughts with positive and realistic ones.
5- Set Realistic Goals:
- Break down larger goals into smaller, achievable tasks.
- Celebrate small successes to boost confidence.
6- Self-Compassion Exercises:
- Treat yourself with the same kindness you would offer a friend.
- Practice self-compassion by acknowledging mistakes without harsh self-judgment.
7- Surround Yourself with Positivity:
- Spend time with supportive and positive individuals.
- Distance yourself from negativity and toxic influences.
8- Mindfulness Meditation:
- Practice mindfulness to stay present and focused on the current moment.
- Mindful meditation can reduce anxiety and improve self-awareness.
9- Seek Feedback:
- Request constructive feedback from trusted friends or mentors.
- Use feedback as a tool for growth rather than a source of criticism.
10- Personal Achievements List:
- Maintain a list of your achievements, both big and small.
- Reflect on this list when self-doubt arises.
11- Physical Activity:
- Engage in regular physical exercise to boost endorphins and improve mood.
- Invest time in self-care activities that contribute to a positive self-image.
12- Professional Guidance:
- Consider seeking professional support, such as therapy or coaching.
- Listen to inspirational podcasts and follow people that make you want to be better.
