Help-my confidence is shot!

Let’s face it, new challenges can be downright scary. As humans, we love our comfort zones and the familiar. It’s like a warm blanket on a cold winter’s night. But when we’re faced with something new, something we’ve never encountered before, it can be like jumping into a freezing cold pool. We don’t know how it’s going to end, and that uncertainty can be uncomfortable.

Even small changes in our routines or interactions can throw us off balance. When we get a reaction we’re not used to, it can be jarring. It’s like trying a new food for the first time. You don’t know if you’re going to love it or hate it.

But here’s the thing: the more comfortable we are, the more confident we become. Think about it. If I told you that you had to get up on stage in front of 100,000 people tomorrow morning, you’d probably be shaking in your boots. But what if all you had to do was smile? Suddenly, the task doesn’t seem so daunting.

So how do we increase our comfort level in unexpected situations? How do we prepare for the unknown? It’s all about mindset. Instead of focusing on the uncertainty, focus on the opportunity. Embrace the challenge and see it as a chance to grow and learn. And remember, even if things don’t go as planned, it’s not the end of the world. You’ll survive, and you’ll be stronger for it.

1. Start with where you are, not where you think you should be.

Have you ever found yourself feeling down or anxious for no apparent reason? It could be due to cognitive distortions – those pesky negative thoughts that creep into our minds and affect our emotions. These thoughts can be so automatic that we don’t even realize they’re happening. For example, you might be doing great at work, but one criticism can make you feel like a failure. The good news is that you can challenge these irrational thoughts and change them for the better.

2. Say goodbye to thought drama.

We all have those moments where we get caught up in unnecessary thoughts and feelings that only serve to stress us out. This is what we call thought drama. It’s when we interpret events in an irrational way and let them take over our lives. But what if we practiced unconditional acceptance instead? That means accepting ourselves, others, and life as imperfect beings. It’s not always easy, but it’s the key to a happier and more fulfilling future. So the next time you get fired or receive criticism, don’t overgeneralize and think you’re a failure. Accept that it’s just one aspect of your life and move forward with positivity.

3. Ready for a change? You’re just one experience away from a totally different life!

We all have a tendency to stick with what’s familiar, even if it’s not getting us where we want to go. But real growth comes from stepping out of our comfort zones and trying new things. Sure, it can be uncomfortable at first, but that temporary discomfort is a sign that you’re on the right track. When you push yourself to change, you open up a whole new world of possibilities and make real, sustainable progress.

4. Your vibe attracts your tribe.

Have you ever noticed that you keep finding yourself in the same situations over and over again? It’s not just chance – the people you surround yourself with have a huge impact on your life. The way you treat yourself sets the standard for how others treat you, so make sure you’re treating yourself with kindness and respect. And when it comes to the people you spend time with, choose wisely. Communicate your needs clearly and assertively, and reinforce positive behaviors you like. With a little effort, you can build a tribe that lifts you up and helps you thrive.

5. Build resiliency.

Life is full of challenges, but it’s not about avoiding them – it’s about bouncing back from them. Resiliency is all about your ability to recover from setbacks and keep moving forward. When you face adversity, take a moment to reflect on what you learned and how you can do better next time. Writing down your thoughts can help you gain insight and put things in perspective. And remember, it’s not about being perfect – it’s about learning and growing from every experience. With a little resiliency, you can handle anything life throws your way. Therapy can help.

The issues discussed in this blog should not take the place of professional counseling, nor should the opinions expressed constitute a clinical assessment, evaluation or treatment. The opinions expressed in this column are for the sole purpose of educating consumers on various counseling issues. Consumers seeking professional help may contact Natasha Dedijer-Turner for a list of appropriate referral sources.