How to flip the script on self-doubt

The worst-case scenario could come true and you might fail at the goal you’re chasing. Or–or!–you could overcome challenges and change your life. Let’s open door No. 2.

Let’s dive a little deeper…

“You just have to believe you can succeed!” “Use the power of positive thinking!” We see your eyeroll and raise you a sigh. Achieving goals takes more than Pollyanna optimism and manifesting. But there is a kernel of truth in the platitudes, just hear us out:

Thinking you’re going to fail or “practising” everything that could go wrong can lead you to doubt your ability to make meaningful changes. You then may become less engaged in the process, especially when faced with inevitable challenges. After all, if you’re already thinking “I can’t do this,” why bother trying? It’s a self-fulfilling prophecy.

On the other hand, dry-running the best-case scenario is more inspiring and gives you the opportunity to identify what’s needed to make it reality—i.e. an actual path forward. So use your thoughts as a tool; they help drive your actions. It may not be easy to shift your thinking, but it can make your journey easier.

1. Your brain is wired to protect you. This can make you jump to the worst possible conclusion without much evidence to back it up.

2. As a result, you may doubt your ability to succeed, decreasing the chance that you’ll even try.

3. Shifting your focus to the best-case scenario can increase your confidence, allowing you to identify behaviors that help you reach goals.