Self-doubt can quietly chip away at your potential, often when you least expect it.
It stops you from making the most of the opportunities that lay before you and to go one step further, achieving your goals. This is why its important to recognise the signs of self-sabotage to prepare yourself for what is to unfold should you let it take over, and also give you the chance to take the first step to reclaiming your power.
In this article we are going to explore five key indicators that your self-doubt may be standing in the way of your success.
1. You constantly second-guess yourself (OVERTHINKING)
Feeling stuck in a cycle of overthinking is a big red flag. Do you often find yourself questioning not only your decisions but your abilities as well? This second-guessing can happen in both personal and professional settings. For instance, if you're preparing for a job interview and continually worry about your qualifications, you might miss out on the role entirely.
If you're looking for promotion and you fumble what you prepared you might miss out on that pay rise because you overthought every question.
Statistics show that nearly 70% of adults experience impostor syndrome at some point in their lives. I still experience this to this day. And this feeling can lead to a damaging cycle, where more doubts lead to more hesitations, which reinforces your feelings of inadequacy. Just think about it from your personal perspective.
Breaking this cycle can take time and effort, but consciously reminding yourself of your strengths and past successes can help you regain confidence.
2. You avoid taking risks
This doesnt mean splashing all your money on Red at the casino. What I am tlaking about here is being comfortable with taking some risks. Risk-taking is essential for personal growth, yet self-doubt often drives you to play it safe. When you are in that scarcity mindset your go to is to play it safe.
For example, if you want to start a new business but avoid it because you fear failure, you're limiting your own potential. On my recent episode with Sharika Chauhan we spoke about "Just doing it" and thats not a playbook by Nike.
A study by the University of Pennsylvania found that individuals who embrace risk are 30% more likely to experience success in their careers.
When you turn down opportunities or avoid stepping outside your comfort zone, you close yourself off to new experiences.
JK Rowling had an idea of writing a book about magic. She took the risk in approaching publishers and was rejected 12 times until Bloomsbury said yes. If she avoided taking that action the 13th time, would Harry Potter be here? Learning to view failures as stepping stones can empower you to take those necessary risks. Each brave move helps build confidence and expand your potential.
3. You minimise your achievements
Do you frequently brush off your successes? I did. I remember graduating after University and thinking yeah it was great but life is life and we move on. It meant nothing. This was a terrible mindset.
Many people with self-doubt fail to appreciate their accomplishments, often attributing them to luck or external influences. For instance, when you complete a project at work, do you downplay it and think, "Anyone could have done that"?
Studies indicate that celebrating small wins can increase motivation and self-esteem.
And to be quite honest you shouldn't be downplaying what it is you are producing. In a world where we dont take praise for our hardworking mindset and ability to get the job done is a world which isnt healthy.
I've started rephrasing the saying "Anyone could do it is a possibility, but im the only one that stepped up and I delivered." This is just a small reminder that perhaps it was an easy task, but I took the time to complete it.
By recognising your hard work, you begin to foster an attitude that embraces your achievements as valuable. Start by keeping a journal of your accomplishments, no matter how small. This practice can help shift your mindset and counteract negative self-perceptions.
4. You compare yourself to others
The dreaded comparison story. Something I have spoken about again and again and again.
In this digital age, with social media at the forefront playing its role, it's easy to fall into the trap of comparison.
Whether its the way you look or with what you've achieved, if you often find yourself measuring your journey against that of your peers, remember that this behavior can lead to feelings of inadequacy.
If social media isnt helping you let me suggest creating a new account that you keep open more often 24/7 and you only follow positive accounts. Things you aspire to be like and things that push you to be better. Stop consuming content that makes you feel guilty for your decisions and choices in life.
Research indicates that those who frequently compare themselves to others are more likely to experience anxiety and depression. Instead of fixating on others' achievements, redirect your focus to your unique path. Setting personalized goals that align with your values will cultivate a deeper sense of fulfillment and self-worth.
5. You seek validation from others
While everyone craves acknowledgment at times, an excessive need for validation can signal deep-rooted self-doubt. If you are constantly seeking approval from family or coworkers, it shows you might not fully trust your own instincts. This can get quite messy if it happens to spill out into your relationships both personal and romantic.
You aren't trying to be needy but you need that thumbs up or seal of approval. Truth is you dont but you've told yourself this and made it live rent free.
Relying on others can hinder your decision-making process. This can often lead you to compromise your values. Instead, try practicing self-affirmation. Reflect on your strengths every day and give yourself the credit you deserve. By establishing healthy boundaries around external validation, you can strengthen your sense of self.
A Path to Growth
Recognising these five signs can help you identify how self-doubt impacts your life. By celebrating your achievements, embracing risks, and focusing on your own journey, you can build self-confidence and unlock your potential.
As you continue this journey, it is vital to cultivate habits that resonate with your true self.
Addressing these signs of self-sabotage allows you to dismantle the barriers built by self-doubt, leading you to a more fulfilling path of personal growth. If it's difficult to identify this for yourself maybe it is a good idea to book yourself in for a coaching call and really start to hone in on whats really bothering you.
Whether we spend 90 mins in the Unfltered Coaching Experience or 40 mins with the 'Permissions Granted' call - we can begin to start identifying your self sabotaging traits and write a plan of what you can start doing moving forward.
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