Doubt, Thou Shalt Die

As kids we think we can do anything.  We are excited by every accomplishment no matter how small, and can't wait to show somebody.
Ever been around a kid when they're in the "watch this!" stage?  They think everything they do is fascinating and incredible.
But as we grow up, our confidence can fade until it seems to disappear completely.  How did we become these anxious, negative, awkward, insecure adults?  Thoughts like this steal away our time, our happiness, and our strength.  Self doubt is the greatest obstacle standing between who we are and who we are capable of being.
So how can we overcome self-doubt and embrace our inner awesomeness?  
1. Improve your self-esteem.  
    To esteem is to respect, admire, or like.  So make a list about what you respect, admire, or like about yourself.  What accomplishments, talents, and qualities make you special?
2. Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations.
    It may be that we are what we think, rather than what we eat.  Create a phrase that says confidently that you are whatever qualities are important to you, and say it often. 
3. Stop worrying.
    This does not mean stop caring, we are not robots.  Rather, it's like the old prayer- God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.
4. Face your fears.
     Ever notice the scary movie isn't so scary once you see the monster/killer/ghost?  Fear is the same way.  Once we identify exactly what it is we are afraid of, we weaken it's power over us.  Then we can see clearly how to overcome it.
5. Open up.
     Doubt and fear are contracting emotions, they cause us to shrink away from possibilities.  The opposite of these emotions are confidence and courage.  We have to take risks, be a little vulnerable, and open ourselves up to all of the opportunities life has to offer us.


The worst enemy to creativity is self-doubt.  ~Sylvia Plath