We all experience self-doubt at some point in our lives. You know what it is, that little voice inside your head that questions whether you’re good enough, smart enough, or capable enough can be relentless. It can get you down to the point of not trying anymore or never starting something for fear of failure. But what if you could turn that critical voice into a source of strength instead of self-sabotage?
Introducing journalling for self-doubt as a proven tool for managing uncertainty, building confidence, and reframing negative thoughts. Journalling is a non-judgemental companion that will always be there when you need it. Writing in a journal, electronic app or recording private voice notes are a great way to keep track of your life, realise goals or work through challenges.
Understanding Self-Doubt
First of all, it’s helpful to understand where self-doubt comes from. Self-doubt often stems from past experiences, societal expectations, or internalised beliefs that we’ve picked up over the years. Many of these beliefs were never true or are no longer relevant yet we still hold onto them.
Imagine dragging a suitcase behind you but never having the chance to empty it. Eventually, it will start to weigh you down, and the paraphernalia stuffed into the suitcase can hold you back from pursuing your dreams, taking risks, or even recognising your own worth. However, by putting your thoughts on paper, you can start to challenge these limiting beliefs and rewrite your inner narrative.
How Journalling Can Help Combat Self-Doubt
There are many ways a journalling practice can help to improve our thoughts and behaviour around self-doubt.
- Identifying negative thought patterns – Writing down your doubts helps you see them objectively rather than letting them swirl around in your mind.
- Reframing your perspective – Challenging limiting beliefs will reveal ways to change the story you tell yourself. Try asking, ‘Is this thought really true?’ and ‘What evidence do I have to support or refute it?’
- Celebrating wins – Keeping a journal of your achievements, no matter how small, builds confidence over time and charts your progress.
- Setting intentions and affirmations – Starting each day by writing a positive affirmation or intention will shift your mindset for the better.
Journalling Prompts to Challenge Self-Doubt
If you’re struggling with confidence, try these journalling prompts:
- What are three things I’ve accomplished that I’m proud of?
- What advice would I give to a friend who felt the way I do now?
- What are my strengths, and how have they helped me in the past?
- What’s one small action I can take today to build my confidence?
Prompts act like a pully that opens the curtains or blinds to reveal more information in the forms of thoughts and feelings. By freewriting around the questions posed, you can uncover more than a first-stage, surface level response. Stick with it!
Take the First Step
Overcoming self-doubt is a journey, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you learn better from being guided or gain motivation from others, my Journalling for Beginners Course will support you every step of the way to start dealing with self-doubt head-on. With guided exercises, daily prompts, and a community of like-minded women, you’ll develop the confidence to pursue what truly makes you happy.
The course will launch in June, so be sure to join the waiting list for when the doors open.