Overcoming Self-Doubt When Starting Something New
I have big news!
If you know me, you know I care about the changing of the seasons—because I believe that our lives reflect the rhythm of nature.
By nature, fall is a time to harvest, and I’m so excited to let you know that a little seed I planted is blossoming into something BIG this autumn. Okay, here goes…
I’m launching a podcast! Ahhh!
Isn’t it amazing how something can be both exciting…and scary at the same time?!
Exciting because…
- I can help even MORE people find solutions to their “Sunday scaries” and make HEART-based career changes.
- I’ll be able to interview and chat with people I admire.
- I can help YOU make the most of a commute you may currently despise (with actionable steps to help you stop having to make it).
Scary because…
While I’m passionate about helping others find fulfilling careers (and I do it all the time), a tiny voice inside me says, “Who am I to have a podcast?”
But let me tell you something…
Every single person I help has that Exact. Same. Voice. And it’s always asking that same damn question, “Who am I to do this thing?” (Whatever that thing is.)
And it’s totally normal. Self-doubt is a reasonable reaction to the challenge of changing careers (or starting a podcast!). They say 7 in 10 adults experience it at some point or another. That’s a whole heck of a lot of us.
So when that small voice says, “What if I fail?”
Let’s promise to always answer back: “But what if I don’t?!”
If (like me) you find self-doubt trying to hold you back, try this:
- Disempower it.
Anticipate and remove its power. Expect the fear, be mindful of how it makes you feel, and remind yourself that your feelings are not facts.
- Flip it.
Remind yourself that it’s usually the most high-achieving people who experience imposter syndrome. (Actual imposters don’t suffer from self-doubt.) You’re doing great!
- Discredit it.
Review all the evidence you have to the contrary. Chat with someone who knows you and your abilities. Trust them.
- Do the thing anyway.
Doing the thing that scares you—whether that’s applying for a job that seems unattainable or starting a podcast—and facing your fears head-on is the secret to growth.
And then there’s this…
“The Hidden Upside Of Imposter Syndrome”
According to an MIT report, imposter syndrome isn’t all bad. In fact, the ways in which we compensate for self-doubt can make us better at our jobs and give us an advantage over our more confident peers.
Okay, now that I’ve put it out there, I’d love to know your thoughts on the podcast. Hit reply and let me know what topics you’d like to hear discussed or any guests you’d like to see featured. Better yet, give it a listen!
Eek.
To facing our fears together.
P.S. The Flourish Careers Podcast is officially launched! Check it out and let me know what you think:
