Feeling Self-Doubt ? It’s Just Part of Settling In
2 min
Last Friday, I attended a gathering of a parent at the university where I work, and one of the conversations during the event really stuck with me. A first-year parent shared that their child was struggling to feel like they belonged in class, surrounded by so many other talented students. It’s a feeling many of us can relate to, especially when we’re in new situations—whether it’s starting a new job or joining a different community. In response, a senior leader said something that resonated deeply: self-doubt is often a part of settling in. And in those moments of doubt, affirmations are a way to rebuild confidence, reminding us of who we are and what we bring to the table.
That idea has stayed with me. Whenever we enter unfamiliar spaces, self-doubt can creep in. We start questioning if we’re good enough or if we really belong. But the truth is, affirmations—taking a moment to remind ourselves of our strengths—can make a big difference. It’s a simple way to push back against that inner voice of doubt and ground ourselves.
In times of transition, it’s easy to mistake doubt for truth. But affirmations remind us that not all of our anxious thoughts are real. They help us step back, take a breath, and refocus. It’s not about pretending everything is fine, but about acknowledging our worth and using that to navigate the uncertainty.
What we tell ourselves matters. The words we use can shape how we experience our reality. When we affirm our strengths or remind ourselves that we belong, it shifts our mindset. It’s not about avoiding the hard stuff—it’s about facing it with a sense of self-compassion.
Here are a few affirmations to offer yourself self-compassion during moments of self-doubt:
My nervous thoughts are not truths. I have the power to shape my reality.
I deserve grace.
I am a breath away from holding myself in this very moment with acceptance and love.
I can speak to myself positively.
I am more than enough, and tomorrow is not promised, so I’ll live today to the fullest.
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