Has self-doubt got you caught?  Here are some strategies for moving in, around, and through it!

(1) Notice the difference in your body between states of self-doubt and self-confidence.

Remember a time when you felt doubt.  Then, remember a time you felt self-confidence.  For each memory — the doubting and the confident memory — be aware of:


• Scan your body and see if you can notice any areas of tension — common places are in your forehead, temples, jaw, throat, shoulders, chest, abdomen, pelvis, buttocks, clenched fists, tight toes
• Become aware of your breathing — how is it? Is it deep? Shallow? Labored? Quick?
• What do you feel in your feet? Can you feel them on the ground?
• What do you feel in your heart? Is it beating regularly, or pounding or fluttering?
• How is your overall body? Are you still, or moving a lot?

The word “doubt” comes from the Latin word dubit, which means to waver. When you are doubting, what is wavering for you? Are thoughts running wild in your mind? Do they multiply?

(2) Here are some other suggestions for what to do when self-doubt arises:

• Exercise
• Ask friends explicitly for emotional support — and in some cases, tell them they need not provide advice
• Read motivational books
• Allow yourself to feel the feelings of doubt — this lets them shift
• Pay attention to compliments – take a breath and allow them
• Keep a “warm & fuzzy” file. Look at past compliments.
• Avoid looking at other people’s progress. Take a step back.

3) In moments when you are not doubting, find a posture of self-confidence.
Deliberately take that helps you to feel more of your positive energy — and ‘fake it until you make it’ by adopting that posture.  Then, when you do feel self-doubt, take the posture — move into it.  I encourage you to especially feel your….


• Hands – perhaps reaching out
• Heart – maybe putting your hands on your heart
• Feet – you may wish to especially notice your connection to the ground

You can look at people and know the difference between a person who is lacking in self-confidence and one who is radiating it.  You’ll find differences in where their head, shoulders, and feet are.  You’ll see a particular expression on their face.  And, you can actually cultivate a new, different attitude by changing your posture.  Try it for yourself!

(4) Make a commitment.
What one activity can you do for each of the next 30 days that will help you to increase your self-confidence?  Perhaps you want to share your commitment with a supportive friend.  Check in with that person regularly to see how you are progressing.  Notice what shifts!


I’d love to know how this article impacts you!  Email me at Info@WorkFromWithin.com