Why Doubt in Ourselves is Beneficial
What do you have desire for, but doubt you can do?
Oh, that creepy little feeling of doubt. Last week, I talked about desire and how we can ignore our deep desires to do the things we have always wanted to do. This is so true for me in both big and small ways. It seems that the bigger the project, the more doubt I have. After all, it will take significant time, energy and, in some cases, money to invest in the project long term. What if I can’t do it for the long haul? What if it flops? What then?
Doubt is a friend of fear. Fear of failure. Fear of success! But doubt is a little different because it signifies that we don’t think we have the tools, talent or stamina to do what we set out to do.
However, doubt is a great thing! Here are two reasons why:
Doubt signifies you are about to embark on something meaningful. The reason you are questioning it is because it is something important to you.
Doubt is an indication of change, and therefore growth. Since it is something that is important to you and you are questioning whether you can accomplish it, it is an opportunity to stretch yourself, learn and grow. And, more importantly, trust yourself. Trust that whatever you try to do will be a learning event, no matter the outcome.
What about this do you find true for yourself?
From here, it is helpful to use your “knowing” or center. To revisit what this is, click here. Then ask yourself where you are in the process of taking action on this desire.
Is it time to move forward now? There may be other things needed to be put in place first. Make a list of what those things are and work through them.
Does it seem like the right time now but you are doubtful, and therefore afraid?
For this, recognizing your doubt is the biggest opportunity for growth. Ask:
What is my “why”? Not a “surface” why like I want more money (not that there is anything wrong with that as a component) but the very deep, “reason I am on this earth why”.
If I take a step in this direction what opportunities of self-growth are there for me?
If I don’t, then what?
What if I am already ready?
Your doubt is a wonderful indication. It is a sign of what’s important to you and when you take a step to fulfilling something that meaningful, growth and change can happen in ways that are unknown to us at this time. This leads us to really cultivate what counts.