How to Overcome Self-Doubt

The Path to Confidence and Certainty

Self-doubt - a feeling we've all encountered at some point. Because of my own experiences with it as well as seeing many of my friends and family not pursuing their dreams despite their incredible passion and talents, I thought it was time to provide a holistic guide on how to overcome self-doubt.

Let's explore where it comes from, its purpose, and simple, effective steps to overcome it, through the lens of holistic psychology and the ancient wisdom of Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, ancient yogic texts.

Understanding the Roots of Self-Doubt

Self-doubt often stems from early life experiences, societal pressures, and the fear of failure or rejection. Our minds develop these protective mechanisms to keep us safe from potential harm, be it emotional or physical. Dr. Nicole LePera, known as The Holistic Psychologist, emphasizes that these doubts often originate from past conditioning and unmet emotional needs during our formative years. While its intentions might be protective, self-doubt can hold us back from reaching our full potential.

In the Yoga Sutras, Patanjali offers profound insights that help us understand and address self-doubt. The concepts of “Abhyasa” (persistent practice) and “Vairagya” (non-attachment) provide a balanced approach to building confidence and letting go of the fear of outcomes. Keep reading to see how exactly.

Simple Steps to Heal and Overcome Self-Doubt

1. Cultivate Awareness: The first step is to become aware of when self-doubt arises. In which situations are we holding back instead of doing what serves our heart's projects? Mindful awareness allows us to observe our thoughts without judgment. Journaling is a powerful tool - writing down your doubts and examining them. Are they rooted in past experiences or unresolved fears? What are we afraid of? Awareness is the first step to breaking free from old patterns.

2. Practice Self-Compassion: Treat yourself with the same kindness you would offer a dear friend. The Yoga Sutras emphasise “Ahimsa” (non-violence), which includes being gentle with ourselves. It's okay to make mistakes, they are part of our growth. According to holistic psychology, self-compassion is crucial for healing and developing a secure sense of self.

3. Embrace "Abhyasa": Consistent practice is key. Whether it’s a daily meditation, yoga, or working towards a personal goal, commitment builds confidence. Patanjali teaches that steady effort, grounded in patience, leads to growth. Trust in your ability to evolve through dedicated practice. It's the small, consistent actions that create lasting change.

4. Let Go with "Vairagya": Non-attachment means letting go of the obsession with outcomes. Focus on your efforts and the joy of the process. When you release the need for specific results, you open yourself to unexpected possibilities, fostering a sense of freedom and empowerment. Holistic psychology confirms this by encouraging us to detach from perfectionism and embrace the journey.

5. Seek Support: Sometimes, the burden of self-doubt can be too heavy to carry alone. Reach out to friends, family, a therapist, or a coach. Sharing your fears, receiving encouragement, or even guidance provides new perspectives and strengthens your confidence. Dr. LePera emphasizes the power of community and connection in our healing journeys.

Building Confidence and Certainty

1. Acknowledge Your Strengths: Take time to recognize and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. Reflect on the challenges you've overcome and the skills you've developed until now. Shifting your focus from what you lack to what you possess nurtures self-belief. Holistic psychology promotes acknowledging and celebrating personal growth as a way to build self-esteem. Keep a daily gratitude journal - write down 5 things you are grateful for every day before going to bed.

2. Set Realistic Goals: Break down your aspirations into manageable steps. Setting and achieving small, realistic goals builds a sense of accomplishment, gradually enhancing your confidence. Remember, even the tallest mountain is climbed one step at a time. Realistic goal-setting fosters a sense of achievement and momentum.

3. Visualize Success: Visualization is a powerful technique. Close your eyes and imagine yourself succeeding. Feel the emotions associated with that success—joy, pride, and fulfillment. Visualization rewires your brain to believe in your potential and motivates you to take action. The use of visualization is a tool for manifesting desired outcomes.

4. Embrace a Growth Mindset: Adopting a growth mindset involves viewing challenges as opportunities for growth rather than threats. Understand that skills and intelligence can be developed through effort and perseverance. This mindset transforms failures into learning experiences and fosters resilience.

A Final Thought

At the heart of the Yoga Sutras is the beautiful notion that we are already whole. Our journey is not about becoming someone else but about unlearning our false beliefs and uncovering and embracing our true selves. As you navigate the ebb and flow of self-doubt and confidence, remember that you are a work in progress, and that is perfectly okay.

Share this article with someone who needs a little support on their journey. Let’s walk this path together, with kindness and determination, knowing that each step brings us closer to the unwavering confidence that lives within all of us and can take us to magical places.

With warmth and light,

Anja

Feel free to share your own thoughts or experiences in the comments!

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Whenever you're ready to start your confidence-journey, here is how I could support you:

• Personalised holistic life coaching - let's find out what your life-purpose is and what it is that is holding you back from living it.

• Individualised Yoga Sadhana - If you're less of a talking and more of a doing person, a personalised 40-day yoga practice to foster confidence, certainty and full conviction might be exactly what will set you on fire.

It's your time to thrive!