What if a little bit of self-doubt is actually a good thing?

In this episode of Building Confidence, we're talking about something I call appropriate self-doubt—that little voice that makes you stop, double-check, ask a question or recognise when you might need some help.

We often think becoming confident means getting rid of self-doubt completely. But especially in the trades, having no self-doubt isn't necessarily the goal. Sometimes that second thought of "Hang on, have I missed something?" is exactly what keeps us learning, improving and, most importantly, safe.

In this episode, I explore the difference between self-doubt that keeps you stuck and self-doubt that helps you grow. I also share practical ways to respond to that doubt rather than allowing it to spiral into "I can't do this."

In this episode, we discuss:

• The difference between crippling and appropriate self-doubt
• Why having zero self-doubt isn't necessarily the goal
• How a little uncertainty can help keep you safe
• Asking for help when you're doing something for the first time
• Moving from being a question asker to a problem solver
• Why being inexperienced isn't something to be ashamed of
• The importance of double-checking—even when you're experienced
• Learning from mistakes instead of allowing them to destroy your confidence
• Asking yourself where your self-doubt is actually coming from

You don't need to know everything to be confident. Sometimes confidence looks like trusting what you know and being willing to stop, check, ask questions and keep learning.

The goal isn't necessarily no self-doubt. It's making sure your self-doubt is working for you instead of stopping you from moving forward.

That distinction is really clear when you talk about someone attempting a task they've never done before: the doubt itself isn't the problem—it can prompt them to check the manual, ask an experienced tradesperson or make sure they haven't missed a safety risk.

If you would like help and support to implement this process you can book a coaching consultation here

If you are business wanting to give your employees more tools to succeed you can book a business chat here

Zadie proudly sponsors this episode.

Zadie is a workwear brand made by tradeswomen for tradeswomen and is made to fit your hips, thighs and butt; check them out at https://www.zadieworkwear.com.au/