The Downward Spiral of Doubt

Maintaining your confidence and overcoming self-doubt

My journey of business and leadership, like that of many, has been a fascinating one. From failed edtech startup, to the franchise business, running a construction firm and now having my second hand at technology — it has been the archetypal tale of entrepreneurship.

If you are not, however, acutely aware and proactive in beating back against excessive self-consciousness, the instability, uncertainty and disappointments you experience can suffocate your sense of value, leaving you circling in a state of constant doubt.

This plays out in numerous ways — one, particularly common among millennials — is imposter syndrome. The feeling you get when you’re in the room, sitting at the table, in yet still find yourself overwhelmed with the perception that you do not belong.

That you are not worthy.

A study conducted in the UK found that 49% of millennials struggled with the perplexity of imposter syndrome. This might seem to be of little consequence until the definition of ‘millennials’ in the workplace is properly set out. These are people ranging from 25 to 40 years of age, and constitute a rough 35% of the workplace. Doubt, channeled through the phenomenon of imposter syndrome, affects more people than we think.

Nevertheless, I’ve come to the conclusion that a healthy dose of skepticism is an essential part of the human experience. To be absolutely unaware can be disastrous not only in professional life but otherwise. Moreover, having a comprehensive appreciation of your strengths is just as vital as having a keen sense of awareness pertaining to your weaknesses.

And this is the tension, the constant internal battle that ensues regarding the areas where you are strong in contrast to your weak points, the question of your preparedness and the overarching interrogation of the value you bring to the table.

While it is imperative to posses a healthy dose of mindfulness, it is equally pivotal not to downplay your worth and allow yourself to sink into a deep gulf of doubt.

So, how can we maintain our confidence and overcome insistent insecurity?

Be led by what you know, not by what you see

This is a crucial thought because at the infancy of your journey, what you see in the physical will rarely align with what you know to be true. The deep conviction or faith you have in the product, business or dream. And this is why it is of critical importance — in the most difficult moments— to be led by what you know to be true inside, and not by what you see.

The key is to take the first step, the doors begin to open as you move. More importantly, reality begins to align with the convictions you hold, as you progress and display a relentless spirit of resolve.

Keep your eyes on the cause

This is the enduring statement of purpose that informs why we do, what we do. The reason we get up every morning, the sense of mission that drives us and our potential.

So the question becomes, what is your cause?

The pursuit of a worthy cause is an arduous task, if it were not so, many would embark on the voyage. The truth is, the journey of actualisation is one riddled with summit highs and devastating valley lows. And this is why, it is only those who are fuelled by a cause greater than themselves, that stand the test of time. Find your ‘why’ and keep your gaze squarely fixed on it, this is where you’ll find the impetus to persevere when all rationale suggests otherwise.

Don’t second-guess your preparedness for the momentous moments

Everything we go through ultimately prepares us for the next step or stage of the growth process. It is yesterday’s failures and lessons that act as a catalyst for tomorrow’s success. Whenever we find ourselves questioning our ability, it is important to bring this to remembrance.

Recall your wins and reframe the negative self-talk.

Understand, that it is the very culmination of all you’ve been through that not only prepares but positions you as the perfect candidate for success, moving forward.

“If you hear a voice within you say ‘You cannot paint,’ then by all means paint, and that voice will be silenced.” Van Gogh

It was Van Gogh who said, “If you hear a voice within you say ‘You cannot paint,’ then by all means paint, and that voice will be silenced.” I believe it is because the post-impressionist painter was cognisant of the fact, that the key to overcoming a crippling sense of fear and doubt is action. Bold action and courage in the face of doubt, at the sight of opposition and in the frustration of failure. We owe it to ourselves to be kind to ourselves. The best thing we can do, is show up and show out, be present and present the best version of ourselves — with consistency.