NaijaTalkTalk- Why let Self-Doubt Stop You From Starting a Business?

Why let Self-Doubt Stop You From Starting a Business

Often times, we lack confidence in our own self and abilities. We do not believe our ideas are good enough and we care so much about what others will say.
One of the biggest fears faced by young entrepreneurs is that they feel like they have no idea what they're doing, and they're afraid that somebody's going to call them out for it.

Here are 5 ways of overcoming Self-doubt

 

1. Discipline yourself.

If you find yourself being pulled into negative thoughts stemming from past experiences, the company you keep or comments from others, staying present is key to being able to focus on the positive. It is important that you set your goals always remind yourself or what who you picture in the mirror and don’t stop till you achieve it. When you focus ---- make an appeal---Take action----Do it---Become it and with discipline, you will achieve it.

2. Get rid of the negative.

If you find that voices of the critical gremlins (both inner and outer) are way too loud, drown them out (or at least balance them) with your own chants of self-praise. There is a reason why you started in the first place, you believed that you can do it. When you have a vision or an idea always revisit it from time to time. Have you ever wondered what life will look like without a mirror? Okay imagine you had no access to a mirror for a year am certain that when you eventually take a look at the mirror, you will be amazed at your own self because you may have forgotten what you look like as you are not aware of your physical changes in the past year. It’s the same with our ideas to get rid of the negative and challenges we must not forget to build on our ideas.

3. Take a break.

When you get completely stuck and you are feeling overwhelmed by what you perceive as not going so well, take some time away from that project and focus on something totally different. Sometimes shifting our focus away from what we are stuck on helps us take a new perspective when we come back to it. However, do not be completely carried away and forget your initial plan and focus. 

4. Raise Your Self-Awareness.

Self-awareness is one of the most powerful personal development tools in your arsenal. Make use of it by understanding the root causes of your self-doubt. What specific situations trigger bouts of self-doubt? If it's a lack of skill in an area, resolve to do something about it. For example, it may be a fear of delivering presentations. Or it may be anxiety at having to make cold calls. Just about anything can be learned. Go out there and get the training you need, or get a coach to help you.


 5. Do not isolate yourself.

While it is important to strengthen your self-love muscles, it is just as important to get the support you need from others. Whether this is from friends, family, a mentor or life coach, getting reassurance or help from others can make a big difference. Sometimes just the reassurance that you are not the only one who gets stuck or has moments of self-doubt can help you shift a “why me” attitude.


Self-doubt is mental paralysis. The only cure for it is having the guts to get started.