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Making a big life change can be exhilarating, but it’s often followed by an unexpected wave of doubt and mental blocks. After leaving my corporate job to pursue entrepreneurship, I was ready to dive into new work that felt aligned with my purpose. But instead of feeling unstoppable, I was met with self-doubt that ultimately stalled my progress.
If you’re in the middle of a big life transition and find yourself battling similar mental hurdles, this post is for you.
Here’s what I’ve learned about moving through self-doubt and mental blocks after a major change—and how you can do the same.
1. Acknowledge Your Fears
Sometimes we shy away from acknowledging our fears (almost hoping that they’ll disappear). However, facing them head-on can help bring clarity.
When I took a moment to recognize what was causing my self-doubt, I saw that it was fueled by uncertainties about my new path, financial stability, and a different definition of success than I had previously carried.
In these moments, I’ve taken the time to write down my fears, get specific, and really challenge myself on what is making me feel uneasy. Working through this on paper has helped me recognize and release the fears.
Give it a try!
2. Redefine Your Identity
Leaving a job, relationship, or familiar environment often requires us to redefine who we are.
Many of us unknowingly attach our identity to our roles, which is why we feel “lost” when these roles change. Think about who you want to be in this new phase of life, beyond any job title or label.
Try asking yourself questions like, “What do I really value and cherish in my life?” or “Who do I want people to remember me as?”
3. Surrender Control
When we can’t see the entire path forward, it’s easy to fall into anxiety or over-planning.
But sometimes, the best thing we can do is lean into faith over control.
In my journey, I discovered that my attempts to meticulously plan every detail were keeping me stuck. Learning to release control can open space for creativity and allow unexpected solutions to come to you.
Surrendering doesn’t mean you stop trying; it means you trust that, in time, the way forward will become clear.
4. Trust the Process, Even When Progress Feels Slow
Growth isn’t always linear. Some days you’ll feel full of purpose and productivity, and others will leave you questioning everything… like, everything.
But…remember, the slow days are often the most transformative.
Instead of fighting them, allow yourself to be present in the process, trusting that the work you’re putting in will lead you somewhere meaningful.
5. Turn Negative Self-Talk into Compassionate Self-Coaching
The mind can be our harshest critic, but it can also be our greatest coach. When negative self-talk starts, try reframing it into a more encouraging narrative.
Instead of thinking, “I’m not good enough,” ask yourself, “What would I tell a friend going through this?” Practicing compassionate self-coaching can build resilience and help you approach challenges from a place of strength.
6. Remember: Clarity Often Comes After Action
When fear and doubt are high, it can feel like you’re waiting for clarity before moving forward.
But in most cases, clarity actually comes after you take action. Start small if you need to. Take one step toward your goal each day. I’ve always believed,
“Momentum is contagious”.
Over time, you’ll build confidence and with confidence comes a renewed sense of validation of purpose.
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Practical Exercises to Try Today:
If you’re ready to break through self-doubt, here are some exercises to help you take the first step:
Daily Affirmations: Write three affirmations that align with the person you’re becoming and recite them each morning. This practice reinforces your goals and combats limiting beliefs.
5-Minute Journaling: Spend a few minutes each day writing about the progress you’ve made. Reflecting on small wins—even if it’s just getting out of bed with a positive mindset—can keep you motivated and aware of your growth.
Visualization Exercise: Picture yourself living out your goals. Imagine every detail—from what you’re doing to how you’re feeling. Visualization can rewire your mind to align with your desired future.
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Conclusion
Big life changes challenge us to confront our fears, redefine our paths, and grow in ways we never anticipated.
Working through self-doubt isn’t easy, but every moment of surrender, faith, and small action can transform your journey. Remember, self-doubt is natural, especially when stepping into unknown territory. Embrace it, lean into your faith, and trust that you have the resilience to create a life filled with purpose and fulfillment.
If you’re feeling stuck right now, know that this phase will pass. Your journey is unfolding in the way it needs to—just keep moving forward. And if you haven’t yet, tune into the latest episode of my podcast for more insights and encouragement on breaking through self-doubt.
Looking for some additional help? Let’s chat! Book a call today to see if coaching could be the pivotal tool in your corner to help you to the other side of this! We got this!
**BONUS LINK: Feeling like you don’t have enough time to get to #allthethings in a day? Maybe it's time for some Time Freedom Hacks! Download your free copy here of my must-have Top 10 Time Tips
**Interested in what coaching could do for you? Complete this inquiry form and I’ll be in touch!
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