Think you are not enough?!
Updated from a blog written in March 2022.
“You don’t have to be anything more than you already are in order to be enough.”
I could write this on my forehead and on post-its around the house!!
I wish that growing up, and then later becoming a mum and working in the corporate world, I was confident and self-assured, but the reality is that I have often battled feelings of inadequacy.
Working with a therapist and a coach, I have developed my own version of self-confidence and learnt to be like a turtle, at ease in my own shell, but starting my Coaching and Communications practice has certainly brought back some old thinking habits and limiting beliefs.
What if I am not ready yet?
What if I am not experienced or qualified enough?
What if I can’t earn enough to provide for my family?
What if I am not taken seriously?
It can manifest itself in various ways:
I am overworked – working long hours to make sure everything is perfect as I do not believe in my own abilities
I am easily rattled by the slightest criticism
I procrastinate or avoid doing certain things – if I don’t launch that new program, it won’t fail.
I am constantly wanting to improve or to sign up for the next course or qualification
It’s coming from a place of fear and feeling that I am not good enough and it is not only exhausting, but also counter-productive.
Here are a few things I do to build myself up when self-doubt and imposter syndrome start raising their heads:
Prioritise my selfcare – when I am tired and not in a good place emotionally and mentally, I am much more vulnerable and more easily shaken by self-doubt
Read my achievements list – this is a list I have built up over time, encompassing all aspects of my life, professional, and personal. Write yours. Every little success counts.
Read my clients feedback – over time I have collected testimonials and client feedback. I use these as a reminder that I am good at my job. Build your feedback folder and refer to it as needed.
Review my strengths and skills list – being good at anything, however small is a good reason to be confident. From cooking a mean chocolate cake to being a good listener or having fabulous taste or style, what are your strengths?
Focus on my abilities – do more of what you do well, to demonstrate your competences to yourself.
Stop comparing myself to others – there is always someone who is more advanced or more qualified at something. Focus on yourself and your own abilities.
Accept compliments – learn to feel comfortable with praises and simply say “Thank you”. No “but” or excuses to minimise your contribution.
Look after myself and my space – reinforce the message to yourself that you are worthy and surround yourself with objects, photos or souvenirs providing evidence of your own success and value.
Speak to my coach
If you want more support in this area, book an exploratory call here and we can take it from there.