Monday 13 January 2014

Why do we doubt ourselves?

What is it about certain people and I include myself in this observation that makes us second guess ourselves all the time. For a long time I thought it was a lack of confidence, but I don’t believe that to be true now, so what is it? Could it be that self believe is the problem. For years I have written reports, research papers, and other formal pieces of work. I have definite views on things and have never shied away from discussing them in informal settings but yet when it comes to a formal setting where I feel I may be judged for my views on a professional level, I refrain. It’s not that I worry what people will think about me, it has more to do with the fact that I was always representing an organisation and I did not want to do it harm by voicing an uncomfortable thought or viewpoint. I now realise that this has extended to all I do and now I seem to be living my life second guessing myself and my views, especially if I meet others who are very strong minded or blinded to other possibilities. Now after what I feel are years of conforming,  I want to break free but find I now can’t seem to find the words or the eloquence I once has – so what is one to do? For a while I have been writing this blog and yet would not advertise it to anyone for fear they might read my rambling thoughts. I now feel I need to take control over my life and thoughts and views and stop doubting myself. So instead of reading and re-reading and then getting at least two others to read (seems crazy when I write this) to check my work I am now simply going to post. So if you are like me and prone to personal self-doubt I challenge you to do the same, pick one thing in your life that you like to do and stop second guessing the consequences and just enjoy it. Let me know how you get on.