Ever feel like you’re not good enough to start something new? Join the club. Self-doubt is like that annoying backseat driver who’s never actually driven a car but insists they know better than you. It whispers, “You’re not ready,” “You’re not good enough,” or the classic, “Who do you think you are?”
But what if the secret to confidence isn’t thinking your way out of doubt—but acting your way through it?
My Self-Doubt Spiral (And How I Escaped It)
A few years ago, I landed what I thought was my dream job. Exciting startup culture, smart colleagues, even free beer at lunch (seriously). But once I started, imposter syndrome hit hard. Every piece of feedback chipped away at my confidence.
“Why can’t you get this right, Brian?” my inner critic hissed. It didn’t matter that I was still learning. I expected perfection—and when I fell short, my self-doubt skyrocketed.
Sound familiar? If so, here’s the good news: self-doubt is a habit, and like any habit, it can be rewired.
How to Break Free From Self-Doubt
- Reframe Your Thoughts: Instead of “I’m not good enough,” say, “I’m learning every day.” Your brain believes what you repeatedly tell it—so tell it something empowering.
- Create a Success Folder: Keep a file of your wins—praise from coworkers, achievements, even kind words from friends. Review it whenever doubt creeps in.
- Take Tiny Actions: Confidence isn’t built in your head; it’s built through action. Stop waiting for the perfect moment and just start—one small step at a time.
- Use a Power Pose: Stand like a superhero for two minutes. Science proves it boosts confidence and lowers stress. (No, really. Google Amy Cuddy’s TED Talk.)
- Change How You Talk: Stop saying, “I’m just lucky.” Replace it with, “I worked for this.” Own your skills.
Your Challenge:
Next time self-doubt creeps in, write down three past wins—big or small. Remind yourself that you do belong, you are capable, and you can take action today.
You’re not faking it. You’re making it.