Empathy is nice and encouragement is better
Self-doubt creeps up when we least expect it and even those who can see it coming, can be side swiped by all the feelings associated with self-doubt – including uncertainty, feeling judged, procrastinating, lacking confidence and more
What can we do to rebuild certainty and confidence?
You’ve probably heard of the effectiveness of Daily Gratitude, and maybe have used this practice from time to time. I know I have used gratitude most of my life to remind myself how truly fortunate I am and especially recently ….
Gratitude only goes so far. Jane Dutton and Adam Grant have found that counting our blessings – being grateful – does not boost confidence.
They believe that gratitude is passive. It makes us feel thankful. Thankful doesn’t impact our confidence.
When we are feeling all the emotions connected with self-doubt – what can we do?
Adam and Jane suggest tracking contribution
Contributions are active – they remind us of the difference we make.
Here’s what they suggest we do – and for some of you who have been reading my newsletters and blogs and interacting with my socials, you’ll know I always recommend you keep a “Compliment File” and keep all the successes, the terrific feedback you receive and emails, notes from client sessions etc
Jane and Adam take this to another level. Here is what they suggest:
At the end of every day spend 5 minutes and think about 3 things that you have done well today – and why.
These are what some refer to as “Small Wins” or “Little Wins”
You may have heard of this idea? I know I used to go to a regular Meet Up of a group I was involved with and we were all encouraged to “Share your little wins”
I’ve been using it myself and it is very powerful.
Recently I suggested it to a few of my clients and they told me it’s making a big difference – and it happens quickly.
Some days the wins really are small and other days they have more significance.
They are your “Small Wins” or “Little Wins” and no-one else’s
I’m going to suggest that you try it – take a moment now and think about 3 things that you have done well and why. Write them down. Reread them and celebrate them.
If you want to let me know, I’d love to hear from you.
Send me an email to tell me how this works for you ingrid@healthynumber.com.au