This week's blog is about Coaching Yourself Through Self-Doubt. You are often told that speaking up is about using your voice well. But it's also about believing that your voice makes a difference. Every one of us, no matter how qualified, capable or accomplished, shrinks away when doubt is present. We start to question our worth, and we begin to hesitate in taking that first step. This leads us to hold back when sharing ideas in meetings, taking up space within the team setting, or even leading with confidence. 

“Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will.” – Suzy Kassem

 This can be seen in coaching sessions, team meetings, and even in myself at times.  It's experienced as that inner unsteadiness that may present as impostor syndrome and quickly spiral out of control. One can hear the whispers: What if I get this wrong?

This week I wish to challenge this gently. Let's learn how to stand tall even when self-doubt tries to pull you down. Let's coach ourselves through uncertainty, not around it.

Why It Matters

Often at work, visibility leads to opportunity. However, if you don't speak up, you risk having your ideas overlooked by those who need to see and hear them.  You may be passed up for leadership positions. This often leads to staying in roles and environments that don't fully utilise your potential. Stagnation in growth is seen.

Self-doubt is only human nature. However, staying silent can cost you your growth. 

Remember that your voice carries wisdom within it, valuable insights and experiences that deserve to be heard. So, do not think that speaking up is arrogance; rather, it is self-trust in action.

How to Coach Yourself Through Self-Doubt

 Let's explore five intentional practices that can help you navigate moments of self-doubt and cultivate a sense of grounded confidence. My usual GEMS💎 of wisdom will help you take things further using journaling prompts and positivity.

1️⃣ Name the Doubt and Don’t Become It

•  Recognise self-doubt as a feeling and not something set in stone.
• If you catch yourself saying “I’m not good enough,” reframe with: “I’m feeling unsure—and that’s OK. I can still move forward.”

 💎 Journaling prompt: “What is the story I’m telling myself right now—and is it 100% true?”

2️⃣ Reconnect With Your Evidence

• You're inner critic often erases your wins. Your job is to bring them back into focus.
• Write out a list of times when you were brave, capable and made an impact.
• Create a “Confidence File” filled with #IAmRemarkable statements about your personal and professional life.
• Why not add positive emails, complimentary messages, positive testimonials—anything that reminds you who you are.

 💎 You’ve done hard things before. You can do this too.

3️⃣ Breathe into the Moment, Then Take Action

•  When you hesitate, self-doubt has the space to thrive.
• One way to disrupt it is to act—even if it’s just a small step. One tiny step may include speaking up in a meeting, asking an inquisitive question, or even raising your hand.

 💎 Journaling prompt: “What’s one brave thing I can do today, even if my voice shakes?”

4️⃣ Check the Standards You’re Holding Yourself To

• Are you striving for perfection and flawlessness? Is there a need?
• Actual growth comes from being authentic and showing up as your true self. Remember, you need to learn by doing.

💎Ask yourself: Are these standards kind? Are they mine? Or are they inherited from someone else?

5️⃣ Remember: Confidence Is Built, Not Given

• Confidence is often the result of an action repeated until it becomes second nature.
• The more you speak up, the easier it becomes to trust your voice.
• Let experience be your coach.

How will you know when you are coaching yourself well? 

• You will start pausing to question that inner critical voice. You will no longer just accept it.
• You will start speaking up even when it's uncomfortable, and stretch outside your comfort zone.
• You will take imperfect action instead of overthinking.
• You recall past experiences and the resilience you have demonstrated.
• You seek support, mentorship and guidance when needed.

 We may think that self-doubt can disappear overnight however this is really the case. Take one small step forward this week to enable you to stretch yourself and learn something new. 

Journal about it and try to celebrate the effort and not just the outcome. Notice how it feels for you.  Remember, you do not have to be fearless to lead. Simply start listening to that part of you that's willing to try.