When you doubt yourself, it’s hard to take action and get stuff done. In fact the whole point of self-doubt is to paralyze us into inaction. And that’s not a good thing.
How do you work through it and get things done even when you doubt yourself? Here are five tips to help you accomplish just that:
Tip #1 – Break It Down
Self-doubt is often caused by overwhelm. The key is to break it down into smaller tasks that you can get done quickly and easily. This builds momentum that helps you tackle the more complicated stuff.
And, before you know it, you get in a productive day of work, even with the self-doubt.
Tip #2 – Make a List
Once you have your small tasks, write them down on a list and start checking them off as you go along. Lists are another great way to build momentum. We also have a tendency to want to check every item off the list. Use it as a tool to keep going when doubt tries to move you into in-action.
Tip #3 – Look Back
Self-doubt is often fueled by a lack of confidence. To boost your confidence take a look at how far you’ve come. Grab some photo albums, your journal, you to-do lists from earlier this week. Or just reminisce about the progress you’ve made in the past weeks, months, and years.
No matter how doubtful you feel about the future, looking at the past will show you just how much you’re capable of.
Tip #4 – Face Your Worst Fear and Do It Anyway
Sometimes we don’t get started on a project or a task because of fear. And the best way to work through that is to face your fear. Imagine the worst possible outcome. By facing it, it already seems less scary. Then get to work anyway.
Pick something small, built momentum, and start taking action. Before you know it you will have worked through your fear.
Tip # 5 – Get Some Feedback
There’s nothing like some positive feedback and praise to boost your confidence and get you to take action. Ask a friend, a colleague, or a mentor for feedback. Even better ask them to become your cheerleader on days when you doubt yourself and have a hard time getting productive.
A kind word is often all it takes to banish those doubts and get back to your happy, productive self.
Give these tips a try and see if they don’t help you get out of your funk and back into productive mode. Mix and match them as needed until you’re ready to get back to work.
