They happen to all of us, those moments of self doubt that stop us in our tracks just as we’re gaining a little momentum. We sort of know they’re temporary, but in the moment they feel like a terminal condition. We feel paralyzed, directionless, like we’re floating. It sucks. Add to that the worry (a completely useless emotion, as far as I’m concerned) that we won’t be able to keep things afloat through what we’ve deemed a “slow period” and you’ve got a recipe for some serious stress eating and staring at your computer hoping it will spontaneously create your next big opportunity or truly innovative idea.
*sigh*
Okay. Time to snap out of it and keep moving. Here are some things I do to get back on track:
- Look at my list of “forward movement.” I know it sounds corny, but I keep a list (or I try to anyway) of successes and forward movement. No matter how small they are, they remind me of the progress I’ve made in the past few months/weeks/days.
- Drink coffee. I know, not the healthiest solution (and even richer coming from a fitness professional); but sometimes I just need a kick to get the brain moving. Caffeine works well, as do slightly more body friendly options like going for a run or walk outside.
- Call a client or former colleague who loves me. They’re good at reminding me why I’m fabulous and how I’ve helped them or made their life (and business) better.
- Look at my resume or professional bio. It’s sort of the same as #1. Sometimes I need to remind myself of all the things I’ve accomplished so far in my career in order to have the confidence to make it through current challenges.
- Call someone I love and tell them I need a hug. If I’ve called the right person, they’ll be over in a flash. Sometimes a hug is all I need to regain my focus and start moving again. (Another corny one, I know. Just try it, okay?) 🙂
- Teach something. For me, it’s Pilates (obviously); but it could be anything about which you have knowledge to share. The act of sharing what you know and helping someone who is eager for your expertise is the greatest energy and confidence booster ever.
What do you do to get back on track when self doubt creeps in?
