How to stop doubting yourself
Jan 19, 2025
When your work is really challenging, how can you stop self doubts from getting in the way?
Imagine you are asked to lead an important project at your company. Are you worried that you have all the skills required? Are you wondering whether the team will take you seriously?
It’s natural to ask these questions. If you didn’t, it would mean you are always in your comfort zone, and we all know that is not good for your career growth.
So then you will be wondering - what’s my answer to these questions when they come up? Doubting yourself will always mean that you are feeling more anxious and not perform as well as you could.
How can you get rid of these self doubts?
You need to find your own source of inner confidence.
Personally, I regularly perform with my flute in front of small concert audiences. I enjoy putting on a small show for them, and I often challenge myself with some really tricky music pieces. When I prove to myself in that way how much I can achieve, I feel much more powerful and capable in so many other situations as well.
Everyone has their own source of confidence. To inspire you and help you find yours -
Here are the confidence sources of 9 famous leaders:
1. Oprah Winfrey: Self-Affirmation
The media mogul is big on regularly showing herself some self-love. Her 10 rules (linked at the bottom of this email) include “Believe in yourself”, “There are no mistakes” and “Take care of yourself”.
2. Serena Williams: Visualisation
The tennis legend regularly imagines her matches and how the win will feel. On the day of a match, she is then much more confident she will do well.
3. Mark Zuckerberg: Mentorship
The CEO of Facebook learnt from industry leaders early in his career and built his confidence in the tech world. Steve Jobs was one of his mentors.
4. Angela Merkel: Networking
The former Chancellor of Germany built a strong network of supporters and advisors. When things got challenging, she could then rely on their help and confidently make tough decisions.
5. Warren Buffet: Knowledge
The billionaire investor is a big believer in lifelong learning. He studies the financial markets in detail which means he can confidently invest.
6. Richard Branson: Exercise
The founder of the Virgin group exercises to get rid of self doubts. In his view, a healthy lifestyle means a confident mindset.
7. Steve Jobs: Meditation
The former CEO of Apple travelled regularly to silent retreats where he could reflect and recharge. That gave him his inner confidence.
8. Bill Gates: Philanthropy
The co-founder of Microsoft is the living example of someone who has a purpose he is passionate about. Working towards this makes him feel powerful.
9. Abraham Lincoln: Wrestling
The former U.S. President was a skilled wrestler. His physical strength gave him confidence.
To find your own source of confidence, think about a time you felt really energised and ready to take on the world. What were you doing at the time?
Come back to this activity when you feel self-doubts creeping in!