22 Ways to Overcome Self-Doubt and Gain Confidence

Self-doubt is the internal struggle and lack of confidence in one’s own abilities, worth, or decisions. It is the persistent voice of uncertainty that casts doubt on our capabilities and creates a sense of inadequacy. Self-doubt often stems from fear of failure, comparison to others, or past setbacks. 

It can manifest as negative self-talk, hesitation, or a constant questioning of one’s worthiness. Self-doubt holds us back from pursuing our dreams, taking risks, and fully embracing our potential. Recognizing and understanding self-doubt is the first step in overcoming it and developing a strong sense of self-belief.

And here’s the thing. We all have it.

Personally, I’ve struggled with it so much that I wrote a book on it. Standing Strong is all about breaking free from the things that hold us back. But for now, here’s a bite-size version. 

Be prepared to be encouraged and inspired! Here are twenty-two ways to overcome self-doubt and foster unshakable confidence!

1. Hold every thought captive

By understanding and applying this principle found in 2 Corinthians 10:5, we can gain control over negative thoughts. We have to align our thoughts with who God says we are and recognize when self-doubt arises. By filtering our thoughts though the truth of God’s Word we reject the lies that foster self-doubt. Holding every thought captive helps us to overcome self-doubt and become more confident women.

2. Place boundaries around draining relationships

There is often a correlation between low self-confidence and the tendency to prioritize pleasing others. Are you enabling someone to have power over your choices and actions? What step can you take to establish a boundary and regain your sense of self? 

Setting boundaries is an act of self-care that fosters self-confidence. Embrace this practice and say goodbye to self-doubt!

3. Stop comparing

Each of us has a unique mark to make on the world. When we are caught up comparing ourselves to others, it leaves us feeling less than or not enough in some way. Our capacity to make the impact we alone can make is diminished.

Most of our comparisons are unfair because we have a tendency to compare:

• Our weaknesses to others’ strengths
• Our behind the scenes to others’ highlight reels
• Our humble beginnings with someone else’s happy ending  

Heather Holleman wrote a stunning book about comparison called Seated With Christ. She says that because we’re ALL seated at the same table as Jesus, we can celebrate each other while being perfectly content with ourselves. 

4. Practice gratitude

Something amazing happens when we make a conscious effort to focus on the things for which we are grateful. Our mindset shifts from one of lack to one of abundance. Gratitude helps us to recognize our strengths and past accomplishments. 

Appreciating what we have causes us to think positively, countering the negative thoughts in our heads. This practice also encourages us to celebrate even the smallest wins, reinforcing our belief in ourselves. Gratitude helps us accept who we are and build unshakeable confidence that overcomes self-doubt.

I love this gratitude journal. As you record five years of blessings in this tiny book you will be reminded of all of the ways God has blessed you in the past.

5. Repeat affirmations

Affirmations are confidence boosters that kick self-doubt to the curb and help us rock our confidence game! When we repeat positive statements about ourselves, we rewire our brains to believe in our awesomeness. Those negative thoughts don’t stand a chance! 

Affirmations remind us of our strengths, talents, and resilience. With regular practice, we build an unshakable belief in ourselves, knowing we’ve got what it takes to succeed. 

6. Move your body

Getting our bodies moving is a powerful way to conquer self-doubt and boost confidence. When we engage in physical activity, our brain releases endorphins. These magical feel-good chemicals lift our mood and increase energy. 

As we challenge our bodies and achieve fitness goals, we develop a sense of accomplishment and pride. Regular exercise also improves our physical well-being, enhancing our self-image and overall confidence. Moving our body allows us to connect with our strength and capabilities, causing us to break free from self-imposed limitations. 

As scripture tells us, our bodies are temples. Taking care of our bodies is an act of worship. Check out Revelation Wellness by my friend Alisa Keeton. She teaches how to be healthy and whole in Christ both physically and mentally. 

Whether it’s dancing, jogging, or hitting the gym, let’s embrace the power of movement to conquer self-doubt and unleash our confident selves.

7. Know what you’re good at

Write down your skills, abilities, and gifts. I know you have a ton of them in you! In moments of low self-confidence, we tend to forget all of the great things about ourselves. Write those great things down so you can remember! Own them! 

8. Acknowledge your innate self-confidence 

Believe it or not, we’re way more confident than we give ourselves credit for. Think about it: every single day, you effortlessly make countless decisions that require a certain level of confidence. You’ve got this! 

To boost your confidence even more, take a moment to acknowledge and celebrate all those small but successful decisions you make daily. Whether it’s choosing what to wear, making decisions for your family, or tackling everyday challenges, you’re rocking it! 

So, give yourself a pat on the back and remember that you’re brimming with confidence, even in the seemingly ordinary moments.

9. Be mindful of body language 

Body language plays a crucial role in conquering self-doubt and fostering confidence. When we consciously adjust our body language, such as standing tall, making eye contact, and having an open posture, we send signals to our brain that we are confident. 

This intentional shift in body language can actually influence our thoughts and emotions by helping us to feel more assured and capable. By exuding confidence through our body language, we project a positive image to others and convince ourselves of our own abilities.

10. Take care of yourself

Taking care of our appearance goes beyond surface-level effects. When you invest time and effort into your personal grooming, it’s a way of showing self-care and self-respect. Yes, that means sometimes getting out of your yoga pants and into prison pants (what I call ‘jeans’).  

Styling your hair and applying some make up can boost your sense of identity and enhance your self-image. Feeling comfortable and confident in your own skin allows you to present yourself authentically to the world. It’s not about conforming to societal standards, but rather expressing your unique style and embracing the beauty that radiates from within. 

11. Self-compassion

Practicing self-compassion is all about being kind and understanding to yourself, just like you would be to a friend. When you give yourself a break and realize that making mistakes is normal, you create a space for growth and self-acceptance. Self-compassion helps us to break free from the negative self-judgment cycle and embrace our awesome, imperfect selves. 

With self-compassion in your back pocket, you bounce back from setbacks, rock your true potential, and shine with unshakeable confidence. So, be your own cheerleader and show yourself some love—you deserve it! Self-doubt doesn’t stand a chance!

12. Challenge your fears

What’s holding you back? Where do you fear failure? Take a moment to reflect on those areas. Now here’s the deal: start small. Take one tiny action in one of those areas where you feel stuck. It could be as simple as making a phone call, sending an email, or trying something new. Take another small step and then another. Before you know it those small steps will add up to a successful journey across the finish line. 

Before you know it, you’ll look back and realize how far you’ve come. So, don’t let fear or self-doubt hold you back. Take those small steps, embrace the journey, and watch as they lead to something truly remarkable. You’ve got this!

13. Fast from social media

Taking a break from social media is like a breath of fresh air for our emotional health. When we step back from all that comparison and fake perfection online, we can finally focus on ourselves and our journey. No more feeling pressured to measure up to impossible standards! 

It’s all about embracing our uniqueness and celebrating our own accomplishments. By ditching the social media noise, we get to reconnect with our passions, nurture real relationships, and truly be present in our lives. So, give yourself a break from the virtual world, rediscover who you are, and watch your confidence soar! 

14. Recognize confident role models and mentors

Take a moment to think about someone who inspires and motivates you. Learn from their journey. Dive into their story, how they navigate life, and the path they took to reach where they are today. By studying their experiences and mindset, you can gain valuable insights and guidance. 

Mentors provide a source of inspiration, wisdom, and support, helping you build confidence and navigate challenges. So, seek out role models who ignite your inner fire, learn from them, and let their stories empower you to unlock your own potential.

15. Be in community

Skip the solo act and dive into the power of community. Isolating yourself can make those negative thoughts run wild. Instead, make plans to spend time with other people. Surround yourself with awesome women who lift you up and bring out the best in you. Join activities, groups, or hangouts where you can connect with like-minded people. 

Being part of a community gives you fresh perspectives, support, and feelings of belonging. You’ll see that you’re not alone in your struggles.

16. Be true to yourself

“Confidence comes from a very authentic place, a very whole place,” says life coach Valorie Burton, author of Successful Women Speak Differently: 9 Habits That Build Confidence, Courage, and Influence. “You believe in your abilities to do something. You show up in a very secure way.”

Listen to my podcast with the brilliant Valorie Burton by clicking here! 

17. Do what you say you’re going to do

When we follow through on our commitments and promises to ourselves, it builds a sense of trust and reliability. Each time we take action and fulfill our own words, we prove to ourselves that we are capable and trustworthy. 

This consistent behavior strengthens our self-belief and reinforces a positive self-image. As we consistently meet our own expectations, our confidence grows, and we develop a sense of empowerment. So, let’s make it a habit to align our words with our actions.

18. Focus on the present

Many self-confidence issues arise from worrying about the future or dwelling on past regrets. Instead, direct your attention to the task at hand. Fully immerse yourself in it, allowing your mind to be happily engaged. 

By being present, you shift your energy from anxious thoughts to actively participating in the current moment. This allows you to perform at your best and appreciate your abilities in real time. So, let go of future worries and past regrets and embrace the power of the present. It’s in this moment that your confidence thrives and grows.

19. Have a growth mindset 

Take a moment to reflect on past failures and shift your perspective. Instead of dwelling on the negative aspects, write down what you learned from those experiences and how they ultimately served you. Embrace the idea that failure is not the end but rather a stepping stone on the path to growth and success. 

By reframing failure as a valuable teacher, you empower yourself to see setbacks as opportunities for learning and improvement. Embrace the kindness of failure, as it guides you towards new insights, resilience, and ultimately, greater confidence. 

I recently had a great conversation with Annie F. Downs. She has a beautiful perspective around mistakes and believes there is no such thing as failure. You can check out our conversation here. 

20. Do something for others

When you choose to be kind and giving, you tap into a wellspring of satisfaction. Sharing and serving others not only brings joy to their lives but also nourishes your own sense of purpose and self-worth. 

Whether it’s a small act of kindness or dedicating your time and skills to a cause, the act of giving brings a profound sense of fulfillment. It reminds you of the positive impact you can have on the world and builds a deep-rooted confidence in your ability to make a difference.

21. Take up a hobby

Embrace the fact that it’s perfectly okay to be a beginner. When you dive into a new hobby, you open yourself up to new experiences, learning opportunities, and personal growth. Give yourself permission to explore and make mistakes along the way. 

Remember, everyone starts somewhere, and progress comes with practice. By embracing the beginner’s mindset, you free yourself from the pressure of perfection and open the door to endless possibilities. 

So, find something that excites you, jump in, and let the joy of learning ignite your confidence. You never know where your newfound hobby may take you!

22. Seek help from a professional 

Therapy is a courageous and empowering choice with no shame attached that provides a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. A skilled therapist offers guidance, support, and tools to help you navigate and overcome self-doubt while fostering confidence in the process. 

Just as we seek medical help for physical ailments, seeking therapy for our mental well-being is equally important. It shows self-awareness and a commitment to living a fulfilling life. Remember, seeking therapy is a sign of strength, resilience, and a genuine desire to conquer self-doubt and foster confidence.

Self-doubt is something we all deal with, but it doesn’t have to hold us back. By putting into practice the awesome tips we’ve covered, like being grateful, finding mentors, embracing failures, and taking care of ourselves, we can overcome self-doubt once and for all.

Believe me, you’ve got what it takes to achieve amazing things. So keep pushing forward, be kind to yourself, and never stop believing in your awesomeness. It’s time to conquer self-doubt and live your best, most confident life. You were made for this!