Episode 39

Self-Doubt is a Smokescreen

Published on: 16th May, 2024

In this mini-episode, I explain the concept of self-doubt and how it can act as a smokescreen, preventing individuals from taking action and moving forward. Self-doubt is a natural human state of mind, but if it becomes excessive, it can become maladaptive. I share insights into why self-doubt arises and offers strategies to overcome it.

Key Learnings:

1. Self-doubt stems from a need for certainty and a desire for safety, which can prevent us from taking risks.

2. Overidentifying with the outcomes of our actions and linking them to our self-worth can fuel self-doubt.

3. Failing to engage in discernment and intelligent decision-making can leave us stuck in a state of doubt.

4. To overcome self-doubt, we need to develop a healthy relationship with risk, avoid overidentifying with outcomes, and practice discernment in decision-making.

Show Notes:

00:00 - 01:00: Introduction to self-doubt as a smokescreen in the mind.

01:00 - 02:00: Self-doubt is natural, but it becomes maladaptive when it prevents us from moving forward.

02:00 - 03:00: The need for certainty and its connection to safety is a driving force behind self-doubt.

03:00 - 04:00: The relationship to risk and the ability to tolerate uncertainty are crucial for overcoming self-doubt.

04:00 - 05:00: Overidentifying with outcomes and linking them to our sense of self can fuel self-doubt.

05:00 - 06:00: The importance of not overly identifying with outcomes and separating actions from self-worth.

06:00 - 07:00: Discernment is the missing step in the loop that can help clear the smokescreen of self-doubt.

07:00 - 08:00: Strategies for practicing discernment and making intelligent decisions to overcome self-doubt.

08:00 - 09:00: Encouragement to apply the three strategies (relationship to risk, avoiding overidentification, and discernment) and seek help if needed.

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About the Podcast

Mindset, Mood & Movement: Systems Thinking for Founder
Human performance podcast for life and business
Welcome to the Mindset, Mood & Movement Podcast. Your essential resource for founders, freelancers, and business owners looking to optimise their mindset, health, and business success.

Dive deep into the realm of human performance with us as we explore the systemic connections between psychology, emotions, and physical wellbeing, and their profound impact on achieving success and fulfilment in both personal and professional life.

Discover 3 key outcome areas: enhancing performance, redefining fulfilment, and cultivating peace of mind. Join me as I feature guest specialists in various fields, offering invaluable insights and expertise plus mini-episodes where I address specific challenge and provide actionable guidance on overcoming these obstacles.

Each episode is crafted to provide education, tools and strategies for you, whether you're navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship or seeking personal growth in your professional journey. My podcast serves as your ultimate guide to self-improvement and achieving excellence in your endeavours.

Expect to gain practical insights, delve into expert interviews, and receive actionable strategies tailored to the unique needs of small business owners and ambitious individuals striving to make a positive impact on the world.

About your host

Profile picture for Sal Jefferies

Sal Jefferies

I’m Sal - Human Performance Coach, Educator and Founder.

Everything I coach and teach is what I practice in my life. Mindset work including psychological and emotional development. And for my physical health, I do strength training, fitness and breathing practices. In all areas, I'm constantly learning and always growing.

At mid-life, I'm curious to how we can shape the second half of our life whilst using the latest science and learning's from psychology, emotional regulation and physical health. Over the last 25 years, I have immersed myself in many Eastern influences from philosophy, yoga and meditation. I find in our current world, there's much to learn by combining the latest science with ancient wisdom.

For me, working on the mind is paramount. Also, remaining fit, healthy and curious helps me increase performance, find fulfilment and create peace of mind. I believe this is important both a personal and professional life.

My professional endeavours, which inform my work, include:
Human Performance Coaching (for Founders), Contemporary Psychotherapist, Yoga Teacher, Strength & Conditioning Trainer and Breathwork Trainer. Before this latest chapter of my life, I've been a Photographer, Advertising Exec & Dancer.

When I'm not working, educating or learning, I'll be out with my dogs by the sea in Brighton, UK.