Navigating Nervousness and Defying Doubt
Embracing Growth and Confidence
Introduction:
Our journey through life is peppered with moments that challenge us, and push us out of our comfort zones, eliciting a range of emotions. I am fascinated by two emotions that often surface together; doubt and nervousness. At first, their negative connotations make them seem like roadblocks, but understanding their nature and harnessing their power can pave the way for personal growth and increased self-confidence. Let’s get started with exploring the differences and similarities between doubt and nervousness. Jump to the end for some strategies to navigate these emotions more effectively.
Doubt: Unmasking the Inner Questioner
Differences:
Doubt is that nagging voice within us that questions our abilities, decisions, and even our worth. It arises when we lack certainty or when our inner critic becomes overly active. Doubt often arises from a lack of information or experience. It’s the uncertainty that clouds our judgment and makes us hesitant to move forward. I had a major episode of doubt before a 10K swim in Loch Morlich. Standing on the beach with such a long swim ahead of me the outcome seemed completely uncertain. But it was easier than I thought. Simply keeping on swimming got me there.
