Learning to Trust Yourself: Stop Doubting and Start Listening

Understanding Self-Doubt

We've all experienced moments of self-doubt. It's that nagging voice inside that makes you question your decisions, your abilities, and even your feelings. But what if I told you that you can trust yourself more than you think? It's not that your intuition is faulty; it's that you sometimes choose to ignore it.

The Power of Intuition

Intuition is a powerful tool that everyone possesses. It's that gut feeling you get when something feels right or wrong. Have you ever made a decision that felt naturally good, even if you couldn't logically explain why? That's your intuition at work. The problem arises when we second-guess these feelings and allow doubt to cloud our judgment.

Recognising When It Feels Right

You know when something feels right to you. It’s a sensation that can be hard to describe, but you just know. Maybe it’s a sense of peace, or an unexplainable confidence. On the flip side, you also know when something doesn’t feel right. There’s usually a sense of unease, a feeling that something is off. Trust these feelings—they are your inner compass guiding you.

Overcoming the Negativity

Self-doubt often stems from negative thoughts and past experiences. It's crucial to recognise these patterns and challenge them. Remind yourself of past instances where trusting your gut led to positive outcomes. Build on those experiences to strengthen your confidence in your intuition.

Practical Steps to Trust Yourself More

1. **Acknowledge Your Intuition:** When you feel a gut instinct, acknowledge it. Take a moment to really consider what your intuition is telling you.

2. **Reflect:** Think back to past decisions. When did ignoring your intuition lead to negative outcomes? When did trusting it lead to positive ones?

3. **Practice Mindfulness:** Engage in mindfulness practices such as meditation or journaling to connect more deeply with your inner voice.

4. **Take Small Risks:** Start by trusting your gut on smaller decisions to build up your confidence.

5. **Seek Support:** Talk to trusted friends or mentors about your feelings. Sometimes, verbalising your thoughts can help clarify your intuition.

Conclusion

Trusting yourself is a journey. It requires recognizing and valuing your intuition, reflecting on your past experiences, and taking practical steps to build your confidence. Stop doubting and start listening to what you know is the truth. Your inner voice is there to guide you, so let it.