When Self-Doubt Holds You Back from Taking the Next Step

When Self-Doubt Holds You Back from Taking the Next Step

When you underestimate yourself at work or in the face of new challenges, it’s easy to overlook your abilities. Here, you’ll find ideas to help you grow and learn.

Doubts often creep in just when you’re about to try something new: taking on a project, having a conversation about work, or learning an unfamiliar skill. Instead of looking for proof that you can’t do it, notice what you already know and what you can still learn. The blog offers exercises to help you assess your achievements more realistically, small steps to build confidence, and ideas for turning mistakes into feedback. Growth doesn’t mean fear has to disappear—you can take action even when you feel afraid.

Interested in this topic? Read more: Why do I underestimate myself and how can I discover my potential through lifelong learning? Want to find out where you stand personally? Take a short test at the end of the page and gain a better understanding.

How does this apply to you? Choose the answers that describe you best:

Imagine someone spontaneously gives you a sincere compliment. What is your first reaction?

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Imagine you have to present an idea in front of a group of people. How do you envision it?

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When you make a mistake, what usually crosses your mind?

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When someone else achieves success, how do you feel?

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If someone offered you an opportunity that you have always dreamed of, but you have to accept it immediately, what would you do?

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Which of these images best represents your inner feeling in a challenging situation?

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When someone asks you for feedback, how do you respond?

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When you look back on your life so far, what do you feel?

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If you could change something about yourself, what would it be?

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How do you perceive your own abilities in comparison to others?

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Why do I keep undervaluing myself – and what can I do about it?

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