Introduction

Whether we are taking a test, starting a new job, or playing a sport, everyone sometimes feels unsure of themselves. This is normal.

Self-doubt means feeling unsure about parts of who we are.

A little bit of self-criticism can help push us to try harder and improve our skills, which builds our self-esteem. But too much worry and doubt can stop us from reaching our full potential and doing well.

You can overcome your doubts, although it takes time. Better Up is here to help by giving you the tools and support you need to embrace your true self with hard work and dedication.

Understanding Confidence and Self-Doubt

What is self-doubt?

A lack of confidence in oneself and one’s skills is known as self-doubt. It’s an attitude that prevents you from believing in yourself and from achieving success. Although humility is a positive quality, it is no longer helpful if it comes at your own expense.

“Our doubts are traitors, and make us lose the good we often might win, by fearing to attempt,” William Shakespeare famously remarked. That basically means we give up when we have doubts.

What Causes Self-Doubt?

Self-Doubt is the Lack of Confidence in oneself. It can be caused by:

A “drill sergeant approach”

Giving yourself “tough love” can be a powerful motivator since it makes you want to put in more effort the next time. However, self-criticism is far more detrimental than beneficial. If this behavior persists, self-sabotage from overworking and a fear of becoming sluggish or “soft” may result.

Fear of both success and failure

Just as genuine as the dread of not being able to duplicate our previous achievements is the fear of failing and disappointing other people. If we are doubtful, we may believe that our success has come from luck rather than our abilities.

Parents who are narcissistic

We may be unduly careful in certain judgments because we are afraid of making the same mistakes as our parents. However, you could go overboard if your parents are conceited or narcissistic. You might react to your parents’ traits by becoming overly humble or insecure. You could doubt what you did. It is difficult to accept praise because of this.

Practical Ways to Build Confidence

1. Develop a Positive Mindset

Your Thoughts Shape your Confidence. A positive mindset helps you believe in yourself and see challenges as opportunities for growth.

How to Develop a Positive Mindset:

• Challenge negative thoughts by replacing them with positive affirmations.
• Practice gratitude by focusing on what you have achieved.
• Surround yourself with positive influences who uplift and support you.

A positive attitude will help you feel more capable and ready to tackle obstacles.

2. Set Small, Achievable Goals

Setting small goals and accomplishing them helps you build confidence step by step.

Why Small Goals Matter:

• They provide quick wins, which boost self-esteem.
• They help you gain momentum toward bigger achievements.
• They teach you discipline and perseverance.

Start with realistic goals, such as learning a new skill, exercising regularly, or improving communication skills. Each success will build self-trust and motivation.

3. Stop Comparing Yourself to Others

Constant comparisons can lower self-esteem and increase self-doubt. Everyone’s journey is different, and success looks different for everyone.

How to Stop Comparing:

• Limit social media usage, as it often promotes unrealistic standards.
• Focus on your own progress, not others’.
• Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small.

Confidence grows when you focus on your own path rather than comparing it to others’.

4. Step Outside Your Comfort Zone

Growth happens when you challenge yourself. Confidence builds when you push past fears and try new experiences.

Ways to Get Out of Your Comfort Zone:

• Speak up in meetings or social situations.
• Try new hobbies or activities that challenge your skills.
• Travel alone or take on leadership roles at work.

Every step outside your comfort zone reduces self-doubt and increases self-belief.

Overcoming Self-Doubt with Actionable Strategies

5. Practice Self-Compassion

Being kind to yourself is key to overcoming self-doubt. Instead of being harsh when you make mistakes, practice self-compassion.

Ways to Practice Self-Compassion:

• Talk to yourself like a friend, not a critic.
• Accept that failure is part of learning.
• Forgive yourself and move forward.

Self-compassion helps reduce anxiety and increase confidence.

6. Use Positive Affirmations

Affirmations are powerful statements that reinforce positive self-beliefs. They help replace negative self-talk with confidence-boosting thoughts.

Examples of Positive Affirmations:

• “I am capable and strong.”
• “I believe in my abilities.”
• “I deserve success and happiness.”

Repeating these daily can shift your mindset and build self-confidence.

7. Develop Strong Body Language

Your posture, eye contact, and gestures affect how confident you feel and appear to others.

How to Improve Body Language:

• Stand tall with shoulders back.
• Make eye contact when speaking.
• Avoid fidgeting or crossing arms defensively.

Confident body language can boost self-esteem and influence how others perceive you.

8. Surround Yourself with Supportive People

The people around you impact your confidence. Supportive friends and mentors can help encourage and uplift you.

How to Build a Support Network:

• Spend time with positive and uplifting people.
• Seek mentorship from those who inspire confidence.
• Limit time with people who bring negativity into your life.

Being in a supportive environment will help you feel more secure and confident.

Types of self-doubt

Three types of self-doubt are common.

The first is imposter syndrome, which is the irrational concern that people would think you’re a fake or unworthy of your achievements.

Self-sabotage, or undermining oneself, one’s values, and one’s aspirations, comes next.

The third is indecision, which is the inability to make both major and minor decisions because of concerns that the course you take will be incorrect.

Over time, all of these factors weaken your sense of self-worth and make you see yourself more negatively.

Table: Comparison of Confidence-Boosting Strategies

Strategy	Benefit
Positive Mindset	Helps develop a stronger sense of self-belief.
Setting Goals	Builds confidence through achievement.
Avoid Comparisons	Reduces self-doubt and promotes self-acceptance.
Stepping Out of Comfort Zone	Encourages growth and resilience.
Self-Compassion	Increases emotional well-being and self-trust.
Positive Affirmations	Strengthens self-worth and motivation.
Confident Body Language	Enhances self-presentation and self-image.
Supportive Network	Provides encouragement and reassurance.

Conclusion

Building confidence and overcoming self-doubt is a journey, not an overnight change. By developing a positive mindset, setting goals, stepping outside your comfort zone, and practicing self-compassion, you can gradually increase confidence and eliminate self-doubt.

Surrounding yourself with supportive people, using positive affirmations, and maintaining confident body language will further reinforce your self-belief. Confidence is a skill that grows with effort and persistence.