Start with belief. Confidence will follow

I recently found myself struggling to start a new project I had on my mind for a long time. A project that excites me and is very much aligned with my purpose of helping and loving others. Thinking of this project I felt energised and raring to go. Yet when it came to starting work on it, doubts started to come in. What if it’s not going to work out? What if people won’t like it? Who am I to even think I could do this??

This is a very common starting point for many, particularly when it comes to a big decision or starting something that matters and that will also stretch us beyond our comfort zone. In some cases, we give up altogether. We keep the dream alive in our heads and do nothing about it in reality. We prefer the comfort of an unhappy situation to the discomfort of taking a risk and putting ourselves out there. We think that if only we were a bit more confident, maybe then we could do something to change our situation.

The truth is confidence is not a prerequisite. Belief is. You have to believe in your ability to accomplish the task. And when that belief is shaky, don't start believing the opposite thoughts: how you're not good enough, you can't do it, you don't know what to do, and all variations on the same thought that criticises you.

Turn that on its head. Think of the skills, experience and knowledge you do have. And ask yourself: assuming success, how would I go about accomplishing this task?

Two things will help you along the way: paying attention to your self-talk (and making sure you are supportive of yourself, not critical) and taking small steps towards your goal. The more you do this, the more confidence will follow.

I am halfway through completing my project and I will soon put it out in the world. And while I know self-doubt will make more appearances along the way, I also absolutely know that I can do it.?

Do you have a project or a decision that needs you to believe in yourself first? Is it proving difficult? My January coaching schedule is open for anybody who needs support. You can book 2 coaching sessions with me in January, with no obligations - all you need is the desire to make the most of them. This is the link you need: https://bit.ly/3WviOb8

Love,

Monica