Self-doubt can be a major barrier to success and confidence, especially for leaders. It’s natural to feel uncertain or fearful at times, but allowing those doubts to take hold can hold us back and prevent us from reaching our full potential.
However, there are steps we can take, here are seven strategies for overcoming self-doubt and building confidence in our leadership abilities.
Cancel out the feeling you’re not good enough: This can be a common source of self-doubt for many people. To overcome this, try reframing your thoughts and reminding yourself that everyone makes mistakes and that it’s okay to be imperfect. Focus on your strengths and what you have to offer, and don’t compare yourself to others.
Be willing to learn something new. Learning new things can help boost your confidence and give you a sense of accomplishment. So don’t be afraid to try something new or take on a challenge, even if it’s outside your comfort zone.
It doesn’t need to be perfect…just very good. Perfectionism can be a major source of self-doubt, so try to let go of the need for perfection and focus on doing your best. Remember that “very good” is often more than good enough.
Use the “Rule of 3” to make the best decision you can. When faced with a difficult decision, try listing out three options and weigh the pros and cons of each. This can help you make a more informed and confident decision.
Accept negative feedback graciously. It’s natural to feel defensive when faced with negative feedback, but try to listen to it objectively and consider whether there’s any truth to it. Use it as an opportunity to learn and grow, rather than letting it shake your confidence.
Just because you fail, it doesn’t mean you should stop believing in yourself. Failure is a natural part of the learning and growth process, so don’t let it knock your confidence. Use it as an opportunity to reflect and learn, and then move on with renewed determination and confidence.
Stop judging yourself so harshly. We can all be our own worst critics, but try to be more compassionate and understanding with yourself. Focus on your progress and achievements, and try to let go of any negative self-judgment.
Bottom line, overcoming self-doubt is an ongoing process, and it’s natural to have moments of uncertainty or fear, it’s what you do in those moments that matter.
Lead From Within: The best leaders don’t allow their self-doubt to get the best of them; they learn to keep moving forward with confidence in themselves and their leadership abilities.
#1 N A T I O N A L B E S T S E L L E R
The Leadership Gap
What Gets Between You and Your Greatness
After decades of coaching powerful executives around the world, Lolly Daskal has observed that leaders rise to their positions relying on a specific set of values and traits. But in time, every executive reaches a point when their performance suffers and failure persists. Very few understand why or how to prevent it.
Additional Reading you might enjoy:
- 12 Successful Leadership Principles That Never Grow Old
- A Leadership Manifesto: A Guide To Greatness
- How to Succeed as A New Leader
- 12 of The Most Common Lies Leaders Tell Themselves
- 4 Proven Reasons Why Intuitive Leaders Make Great Leaders
- The One Quality Every Leader Needs To Succeed
- The Deception Trap of Leadership
Of Lolly’s many awards and accolades, Lolly was designated a Top-50 Leadership and Management Expert by Inc. magazine. Huffington Post honored Lolly with the title of The Most Inspiring Woman in the World. Her writing has appeared in HBR, Inc.com, Fast Company (Ask The Expert), Huffington Post, and Psychology Today, and others. Her newest book, The Leadership Gap: What Gets Between You and Your Greatness has become a national bestseller.