The War Against Self Doubt

Doubt can be like an invisible chain, quietly holding us back from reaching our full potential. It starts as a whisper—questioning our abilities, our worth, our direction. Before long, if left unchecked, doubt can grow into a barrier so high that it prevents us from even trying.

All of us have been there, we are on the top of our game, then out of nowhere someone we love makes a slight remark that distracts us. It's the "who do they think that are" comment that gets you to question yourself. It's people around you telling you to "humble yourself". Or maybe its the people you thought would support your idea that tell you it will never work. You were once riding high with confidence, now you find yourself living a life that isn't authentically yours.

So, why is doubt so dangerous, and what can we do to overcome it?

Doubt Paralyzes Progress

Doubt can freeze us in place. Instead of acting on a great idea or pursuing a goal, we question every move. This analysis paralysis keeps us in a constant state of inaction, ultimately halting our progress. Doubt convinces us that we're not ready, when, in reality, no one feels 100% prepared all the time. The first step, no matter how small, is what leads to momentum.

Doubt Feeds Fear

Once we start doubting ourselves, fear sneaks in. Fear of failure, fear of judgment, fear of disappointment. These fears are often more about perception than reality, but when mixed with doubt, they can feel insurmountable. We start to avoid challenges, staying in a “safe” zone where nothing grows or changes. Doubt creates fear-based thinking, but by recognizing it, we can consciously choose courage instead.

Doubt Limits Self-Worth

Doubt can make us feel unworthy of success, recognition, or happiness. It can push us to shrink our dreams, settle for less, or hesitate to celebrate our achievements. But each of us is capable of incredible things, and true growth begins with understanding that we are worthy of success.

Breaking Free from Doubt

The good news? Doubt is within our control. We can choose to listen to our inner critic or to challenge it. Building self-confidence doesn’t happen overnight, but small acts of bravery—taking on new challenges, accepting imperfection, and embracing failures as learning experiences—make a big difference.

I've experience self doubt, you are not alone. My self doubt surrounding business came about when I had a conversation with someone who crapped on every business idea I had. Looking back, they weren't qualified at all to talk about entrepreneurship or my business ideas; they didn't have a business of their own. It took me years to realize that a millionaire would never laugh at you for wanting to become a millionaire. A successful entrepreneur would never crap on your idea, they would normally challenge you to make it better, or to think differently.

So how do you regain your confidence??

1. Practice Positive Self-Talk

Pay attention to the way you speak to yourself, especially in moments of doubt. Replace negative or doubtful thoughts with affirmations of your abilities. A simple phrase like, “I am capable and prepared for this,” can help reframe your mindset.

2. Set Small, Achievable Goals

Big goals can feel overwhelming and fuel doubt. Break them down into smaller, manageable steps. Each small achievement builds confidence and creates momentum, proving to yourself that you’re capable of making progress.

3. Focus on Past Successes

Reflect on challenges you’ve overcome and accomplishments you’ve achieved. Remind yourself of the times you’ve succeeded despite challenges. This memory bank of past wins can serve as a powerful motivator.

4. Embrace a Growth Mindset

Instead of seeing mistakes as failures, view them as opportunities to learn and grow. Adopting a growth mindset helps reduce the fear of failure and makes it easier to move forward, even when doubts arise.

5. Seek Out Supportive People

Surround yourself with people who uplift and encourage you. Supportive friends, mentors, or colleagues can offer an outside perspective on your strengths, helping you see yourself more positively.

6. Limit Comparisons to Others

Comparing yourself to others often feeds doubt. Remember, everyone’s journey is different, and people rarely share their struggles publicly. Focus on your progress and celebrate your unique path.

7. Take Action Despite Fear

Sometimes, the best way to overcome doubt is simply to act. Taking that first step, no matter how small, helps you gain confidence and shows you that you’re capable of pushing past your doubts.

8. Celebrate Small Wins

Acknowledge each accomplishment, no matter how minor. Celebrating small successes reinforces positive feelings, making it easier to approach larger challenges with confidence.

9. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation

Mindfulness practices help you observe your thoughts without judgment. This can be a great tool for recognizing and calming self-doubt, as it encourages you to see doubts as passing thoughts rather than facts.

10. Create a Personal Mantra

Find or create a short phrase that resonates with you, like, “I am worthy,” or “I am capable of handling challenges.” Repeat it whenever you feel doubt creeping in to remind yourself of your strength.

Most importantly, remain patient with yourself. I want you to look at rebuilding your confidence in yourself and in your business idea as if you are charging your phone; you cannot expect your phone to be charged at 100% the moment you plug it in. Give yourself space and time to build your confidence back up to 100%.

Also keep in mind that doubt may feel safe, but it holds us back from a life of growth and achievement. By recognizing doubt and choosing self-belief, we open the door to new possibilities. After all, it’s better to try and learn than to never try at all. So, the next time doubt creeps in, remember: your greatest asset is your belief in yourself.

Dom,