"Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will." - Suzy Kassem

It can be hard stepping out of your comfort zone, especially with that little voice of self-doubt saying "you can't do it" or "you're not good enough".

I know that voice all too well, but over the years I have managed to get that voice under control so that it rarely dares to appear.

Would you like that too?

Here are 5 strategies to help you get past your self-doubt (aka fear):

1. Understand why that voice is there.

Back in cave man times, that voice in our head was actually there to protect. Tigers, lions and bears, oh my. Now we don't have those same dangers but the voice is still in protect mode.

When you hear the voice of self-doubt, say "Thank you for your concern but I'm ok and I don't need your advice" and then do it anyway!

2. Stop worrying about what others think.

If you spend all your time and energy worrying about what others think you'll get stuck in a self-doubt loop. You'd rather do nothing, instead of trying something and maybe receiving criticism.

You need to let go of worrying about other's opinions, otherwise you'll be in a constant state of self-doubt.

3. Stop comparing.

"Comparison is the thief of joy." - Theodore Roosevelt

When you start comparing your accomplishments to those around you, you start feeling inadequate. Especially with the rise of social media and everyone only posting the highlights of their lives.

There will always be someone who APPEARS to be doing better, having more or is more successful. Don't use them as a benchmark for your success.

They may be driving around in a new car but it might be on hire purchase and they may have huge credit card debt - so are they actually more successful?

4. Reflect on past successes.

If you're finding that you're really struggling with pulling yourself out of your doubt, it can be helpful to reflect on the things you have already achieved in your life.

This will remind you that you are capable and that you can do this.

5. Surround yourself with positive and successful people.

"You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with."

Are you choosing to be around people who are positive and uplifting? If not, choose better friends. It's really that simple.

Seek out people who are successful and who you aspire to be like. If you can't actually be around them, listen to audiobooks written by them...and not just once. I repeat the best ones over and over.

Surround yourself with people who will stretch your comfort zone wider. People who will push you to do better and celebrate your successes.

Will today be the day that you choose to beat self-doubt?

~ Jo 

#SheBelievedSheCouldSoSheDid

Have you downloaded the FREE 7 Step Guide To Setting Up A Virtual Assistant Business? Click here to access.