Who’s criticizing you the most? Um … you.

Most of us are our own worst critic. Especially at work where the pressure is on. Negative self-talk can make it hard to stay positive and reach your goals. Not to mention, it’s exhausting! If you’re ready to overcome self-doubt, then let us help! We’ll show you how to stop being your own stumbling block and start being your biggest cheerleader.

Confidence is essential to making the most out of your skillsets and necessary if you want to be a leader in your field. Fortunately, you can take these 4 steps today to ultimately overcome your self-doubt.

1. Change Your Self Talk

Words matter, yet, we still say the worst things to ourselves. It’s time to reign in your thoughts and put an end to your inner put-downs. Don’t take everything you think as truth. If you think, “I’m so stupid,” stop and rethink. Remind yourself that you are learning, you are trying, and you are improving.

Reframing your thoughts takes time and practice. Be patient with yourself as you start making this change. After a negative self-thought, take a deep breath and say to yourself “that’s not true” and reframe the narrative into a positive affirmation.

2. Record Your Past Achievements

It’s so easy to forget just how far you’ve come! You have already put in the work and the time to get where you are today. That same drive and capability is still in you.

Keep a journal of the goals you’ve met and the accomplishments you’ve achieved. (Some call this a “Win Journal” or as we like to call it, a “Feel Good File”.) Write down the projects you are most proud of completing and the lessons you have learned through experience. You will see that even now you are more than capable at your job.

When you’re feeling particularly down, it can be hard to remember your past achievements. But we know there’s someone in your life who’s so proud of you. Ask them to help you remember!

3. Stop Comparing Yourself to Others

President Theodore Roosevelt had it right when he said, “Comparison is the thief of joy.” You’ll only be disappointed if you’re measuring your worth by the standard of other people. You weren’t hired to be somebody else. You were hired to be YOU!

Your unique skills and talents have a necessary purpose at work so don’t underestimate what you have to offer. Psst … sometimes the talent isn’t that you can multiply 4 sets of 7-digit numbers in your head. Sometimes the talent is that you’re fun and easy to work with, while also being competent and reliable. Take a BIG look at all your skills and talents and stay open-minded. You might just be surprised at what makes you different from others and a great asset to your team.

4. Be Mindful About Criticism

Not everyone giving you feedback is doing it for your benefit. Be intentional about getting constructive criticism from people you trust and respect. As for anyone else, evaluate what they say. Do they have all the facts? Are they trying to help you or hurt you? Let go of anything that was said to increase your self-doubt.

It takes practice to learn where to turn to for constructive criticism. Unfortunately, you can’t always trust your gut instincts. Especially if feedback scares you and criticism often angers you. As you learn this skillset, we recommend you be open and patient with the person you’re receiving feedback from and then review it with a trusted mentor or friend.

Ready to Elevate Your Career?

 Start your job search today! Consider using a recruiter to help guide the process. Here at Westphal Staffing, it is part of our culture to make connections, recognize humans as individuals, and collaborate with professionals. Today, more than ever that culture is transforming the career-building experience, making us a different kind of staffing company. Call or text us today at (715) 845-5569!