How to Stop Doubting Yourself

By Brittney

Doubt has followed me through every stage of my life.

I doubted that I would make it through middle school when I was being bullied.

I doubted that I would be able to find a major and college that I liked when I was in high school (and don’t get me started on the ACTs).

I doubted that I would finish college after I failed my first year.

I doubted that the guy I liked in college would turn into my life partner.

I doubted that I would find the job I love after I got my degree.

Today, I doubt myself almost every day as I grow my businesses. The point is that doubt is normal. No matter how much I doubted myself, I always overcame. Doubt and fear of failure doesn’t mean that you are aren’t going to do it. It simply means that you are going the right thing. Nothing comes easy and nothing comes with a little sacrifice or doubt.

Even though I doubted all these important things in my life I still made it through middle school, picked a major that worked for me (and did well on my ACTs!). Not only did I finish college, but I was on the dean’s list three semesters in a row! That boy I liked has been with me for six years. I love my job and it’s in my field.

The doubt didn’t stop me. The doubt made me realize how important these things were to me. As I continue to grow my businesses, I must remember that this doubt doesn’t mean I’m not good enough. It doesn’t mean that I won’t accomplish my goals. It definitely doesn’t mean that I shouldn’t take a chance on myself.

If you’re experiencing doubt in your life, practice this exercise. Look back on other times when you didn’t think you could do something. Write them down. Write this one down, too. If you’re feeling doubt, take a peek at all the things you were unsure you could accomplish. Realize that you did accomplish them. Realize that didn’t slow you down or stop you.

Stay positive when you’re feeling unsure. One of the best practices I’ve learned is mindfulness which is learning to not dwell on negative thoughts. If a thought you are having is unhelpful, get rid of it. Think thoughts that will help you accomplish your goal. Instead of “I can’t finish school because I failed a class,” think “I can study differently to improve my grade or do better in the next class.” These thoughts will keep you feeling good about yourself and getting the important stuff done.

I am empowered and poised because I don’t let doubt, fear, or anything else stop me from being successful. And you shouldn’t either.

Check out Brittney’s website at AccordingtoBrittney.com