Self-doubt can arrive at any time. Sometimes there is an obvious reason for it; other times, we simply start the day feeling less confident, less motivated or more uncertain than usual.
We might question our abilities, overthink decisions or compare ourselves unfavourably with others. Even relatively simple tasks can suddenly feel more difficult.
The important thing to remember is that experiencing self-doubt doesn’t necessarily mean something is wrong. Confidence naturally fluctuates, and having an uncertain day doesn’t erase your abilities, experience or previous achievements.
You Don’t Have to Feel Great to Have a Good Day
When we’re struggling with confidence, it’s tempting to think we need to somehow “fix” how we’re feeling before getting on with the day.
Often, the opposite approach can be more helpful.
Rather than waiting to feel motivated or confident, try concentrating on creating a little momentum. Choose one straightforward, achievable task and complete it. It might be replying to an email, making a phone call, finishing a piece of work or simply organising what needs doing.
Completing something provides a small sense of progress – and progress can help confidence begin to return.
Instead of asking yourself, “How am I going to get through everything today?”, try asking:
“What’s the next useful thing I can do?”
Be Careful How You Talk to Yourself
Self-doubt is often accompanied by a particularly harsh internal commentary.
“I should be doing better.”
“Everyone else seems to cope.”
“I’m not good enough at this.”
“I should have achieved more by now.”
If you notice these thoughts, try challenging them rather than automatically accepting them as facts.
Ask yourself whether you would speak to a colleague or friend in the same way. You don’t need to replace every negative thought with exaggerated positivity; sometimes a more balanced perspective is enough:
“I’m having a difficult morning, but that doesn’t define my ability.”
“I don’t need to do everything at once.”
“I’ve dealt with difficult days before.”
Aim for Momentum, Not Perfection
On days when confidence is lower, perfectionism can make things worse.
Setting an expectation that you must be highly productive, positive and completely on top of everything can create additional pressure. Instead, give yourself permission to have an ordinary day.
Break larger pieces of work into smaller steps. Prioritise what genuinely needs attention. Take appropriate breaks and recognise what you have completed rather than focusing exclusively on what remains outstanding.
A productive day doesn’t always mean operating at 100%. Sometimes it simply means continuing to move forward.
Step Away for a While
If you’ve been staring at a screen or going around in circles with your thoughts, changing your environment can help.
Take a short walk, get some fresh air, make a drink, speak to someone or spend a few minutes away from your workspace. A brief change of surroundings can interrupt overthinking and provide some perspective.
Looking after the basics matters too. Sleep, nutrition, hydration, exercise and taking proper breaks can all influence our mood, concentration and resilience.
Don’t Struggle in Silence
Occasional self-doubt is a normal part of life, but if feelings of low confidence, anxiety, stress or low mood are becoming persistent or beginning to affect your work or personal life, it may help to talk to someone.
Your Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) is there for exactly these kinds of situations.
You don’t need to wait until something becomes a crisis before reaching out. An EAP can provide confidential support and an opportunity to talk through what’s happening with someone independent of your workplace.
Sometimes simply talking things through can help you understand what is driving your thoughts, regain perspective and identify practical ways forward.
One Step at a Time
Self-doubt can feel convincing in the moment, but a difficult morning, challenging week or temporary loss of confidence doesn’t define what you’re capable of.
You don’t necessarily need to have all the answers today.
Start somewhere manageable. Complete one thing. Take a break when you need one. Talk to somebody if it would help.
And then concentrate on the next useful step.
If you’re struggling with self-doubt, stress, anxiety, low mood or anything else affecting your wellbeing, remember that your Employee Assistance Programme is available to provide confidential support. You don’t have to wait for things to become overwhelming before getting in touch.
Aug26, E&OE
