How I Killed My Self-Doubt

Stepping outside the comfort zone

Photo by Laurenz Kleinheider on Unsplash

I am sure you all have been there. Here I get myself all motivated and make decisions that I will do this and I will do that. Get all the things to get started. Will join a class and make the change/learn the new thing I always wanted. Every fiber of my being screams “DO IT!”, but then… self-doubt slams the brakes on it.

Why is trying new things darn hard for me?

Why is it so hard to simply try something new? The answer is complex and deeply rooted in our psychology. Here’s how self-doubt messes with our heads.

• Fear of the Unknown: Stepping outside our comfort zone is scary. New experiences bring uncertainty, and uncertainty can be paralyzing. We crave the familiar, the safe space of our routines. Trying something new means facing the unknown, and that little voice in our head whispers warnings of potential failure or embarrassment.
• The Imposter Syndrome: Ever feel like a fraud, even in areas you’re familiar with? That’s the imposter syndrome rearing its ugly head. It convinces us that we’re not good enough, that we’ll be exposed as beginners, and that trying something new will only confirm our deepest fears.
• Analysis Paralysis: We overthink. We spend hours researching, planning, and imagining every possible outcome. This analysis paralysis keeps us rooted in the “thinking” phase, preventing us from ever taking that crucial first step.

Deep down, I know I’m not alone.

Even those seemingly fearless adventurers probably wrestle with the same gremlins in their heads. The difference, I guess, is they don’t let self-doubt win.

So, here’s my battle plan to silence the inner critic and finally take that leap:

• Baby Steps, Big Wins: Forget conquering Everest on day one. I’m starting small. One pottery class. A short hike in a familiar park. Fifteen minutes of exercise daily. Small victories are confidence boosters, and confidence is the fuel for bigger adventures.
• Failure is Fuel, Not a Funeral Pyre: We all stumble. But instead of wallowing in self-pity, I’m going to reframe failure as a learning experience. Every misstep is a stepping stone, a chance to grow and improve.
• Progress Over Perfection: Let’s be real, I’m not going to be a fit and super healthy overnight. But I can focus on the progress I’m making, the new skills I’m acquiring, and the sheer joy of simply trying something different and getting better.

Conclusion

Remember, the greatest adventures often begin with a single, hesitant step outside our comfort zone. Don’t let self-doubt hold you back. Embrace the challenge, celebrate the journey, and who knows, you might surprise yourself with what you can achieve.