6 ways to become self-confident (once and for all)

Self-doubt is a lack of confidence in your abilities and yourself. It is the small or big voice that tells you that you cannot do certain things (even though you have never tried them in the first place).

You quit even before you start.

It happens in small mundane activities in daily life, major decisions, and even in places where performance is rewarded.

William Shakespeare once said, “Our doubts are traitors, and make us lose the good we oft might win, by fearing to attempt,” William Shakespeare once said.

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Causes of self-doubt

Different things influence our self-doubt. From abusive parents or guardians, constant "tough love" approach to be motivated, past experiences of failure, fear of success or failure, among others.

However, the most useful thing is to learn how to work around your self-doubt, which can lead you to the cause and to understand it.

Types of self-doubt

Self-doubt doesn't show up directly in questioning yourself about decisions and choices and abilities all the time, It can show up in three different ways.

Imposter syndrome; the illogical fear of others seeing you as a fraud or undeserving of your accomplishments.

Self-sabotage, which refers to undermining yourself, your values, and your goals.

Indecisiveness when it comes to making big and small decisions due to worries that whatever path you choose will be wrong.

Over time either one or all of the above can reduce your self-esteem and paint a negative view of yourself. This can lead to the refusal of compliments or giving yourself credit, needing and seeking constant reassurance, and feeling like you're never good enough at anything.

6 ways to become self-confident (once and for all)/Pexels Pulse

It is possible to beat self-doubt and it is easy too even though it takes practice. Use these six habits to nourish your mind with confidence and positivity.

Self-compassion

Holding yourself back from life comes from a painful and fearful place. Give yourself room to make mistakes and learn. Handle your failures or setbacks with forgiveness and understanding that you are not perfect.

Think about your past achievements

There's always evidence that you can do something. This is where self-reflection comes in to remind us that we’re capable of what we want to achieve. Focus on using the lessons you’ve learned from those times to improve the present.

Shut down comparisons to others

Self-doubt can also be triggered when you measure yourself up against a family member, colleague, or even a celebrity. Focus on yourself and the unique things that make you, you.

Spend time with supportive people

Being around people who put us down is one of the worst things for our mental health. Spend your time with people who make you feel good.

It's all in your head

Our fears can make it seem like others are judging us but in reality, one holds us to a higher standard than ourselves. You wouldn’t be harsh to your family member or friend if they didn't accomplish something so why do that to yourself?

Apologise to yourself and start treating yourself better.

Question your own thoughts

Question how accurate or helpful your thoughts are. Negative thinking is a mental habit that becomes automatic way too often. Try turning it around with patience, commitment and most importantly, questioning.t

You can do this!

6 ways to become self-confident (once and for all)