Self-doubt is like a thief in the night, stealthily stealing away our dreams and potential before we even realize it. It whispers negative messages, making us hesitate and miss out on valuable opportunities. Have you ever stopped to think about what self-doubt has already cost you? In this post I would like to share the behaviors we engage in to "play it safe", not realizing that we are bankrolling a stolen future.
Never assign a level of difficulty to something before you take the next step.
One of the greatest costs of self-doubt is the opportunities we allow to slip through our fingers. When in doubt about our abilities, we often avoid applying for jobs that excite us, ignore passion projects. Each missed opportunity is a step away from success. Perhaps the most significant cost of self-doubt is the unrealized potential it creates. Think of all the dreams you've set aside because you didn't believe they were achievable. This mindset can prevent you from realizing your true capabilities and the significant impact you could have on your community or the world.
Consider this: studies have found that nearly 70% of qualified applicants do not apply for positions due to feelings of inadequacy. Imagine if those individuals had embraced their skills and pursued those job openings. The growth and learning from pushing beyond our comfort zones are invaluable.
The walls that protect us also imprison.
The walls we build to protect ourselves—those walls of fear, doubt, and past pain—they may keep us safe for a moment, but they also lock us in. I know it's easy to retreat into yourself when someone has done you wrong, and anyone who has experienced fear and pain would do anything not to experience it again. However, all this does is keep giving power to the very thing you are trying to avoid. To remain trapped in a comfort zone that’s anything but comfortable is miserable, because deep down, you know you were meant for more, you are keeping yourself trapped in a vicious cycle.
You cannot ask disempowering questions and get empowering answers.
This thought process is the basis that a self-fulfilling prophecy is built on. A self-fulfilling prophecy is when a belief or expectation you hold—about yourself, others, or a situation—leads to actions that cause that belief to come true. It can work both positively and negatively. For example, if you believe you'll fail at a task, you may unconsciously put in less effort or focus, which increases your chances of failing. On the other hand, if you believe you're capable of success, you'll likely take actions that improve your odds of succeeding. Essentially, your mindset and behavior shape your reality, reinforcing the initial belief you had.
So rather than say, why would anyone want to hear what I have to say? Consider asking who would like to hear what I have to say. Rather than saying, I know nothing that can help anyone? Ask who will benefit from what I know? By taking the time to reframe a disempowering question, you allow yourself the opportunity to tap into the knowledge that you possess, that although you think is invaluable, provides value to someone else.
In the video below. I share a number of other ways that self-doubt robs us of the life we desire. Please view when your schedule permits.
As always, if you have any questions, never hesitate to reach out, I always welcome the opportunity to connect with you.
In Love & Light,
Heather
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