Break through the fear, STOP playing small!
How to develop unstoppable self-confidence
Have you ever felt an urge to share your message, create something amazing, or put yourself out there in a bigger way … only to find yourself held back by fear, doubt, or that pesky voice that asks, “Who am I to do this?”
If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone.
The fear of sharing yourself with the world is real – something many of us struggle with. I certainly did when I was younger.
But here’s the thing: Confidence isn’t something you’re born with. It’s something you can cultivate, one step at a time.
Today, I want to share some powerful mindset shifts and strategies to overcome fear, along with stories of real people who broke through self-doubt to make an impact.
Three ways to break through the fear and share your gifts with the world
1. Shift Your Mindset and Build Your Confidence
Let’s start with the mindset piece. Confidence often begins in the mind, with a willingness to challenge and reframe limiting beliefs.
Instead of accepting thoughts like, “I’m not good enough” or “Who am I to share my story?” to take over, try turning them around. Shift to, “I have something valuable to offer,” or “Someone out there needs to hear this from me.”
Imposter syndrome has a way of sneaking in when we try to step up. It makes us feel like we’re frauds or not ready yet.
But the truth is, nobody feels ready at the beginning. Confidence is ultimately built through action over time.
The more you embrace this mindset of self-empowerment, the more you’ll start to see yourself as capable and deserving of sharing your gifts.
2. Overcoming the Fear of Judgment
Fear of judgment is a biggie, right? Maybe you’re afraid of criticism, rejection, or even self-criticism. What if people don’t like what you put out there?
Here’s the shift I want you to make: Instead of focusing on who might judge you, focus on who needs you!
Someone is out there right now searching for the message you have to share. They’re waiting for your perspective, your insights, and your story.
Whenever that fear of judgment creeps in, try to redirect your focus toward the people who are cheering you on—even if you haven’t met them yet.
They are the ones who will resonate with what you have to offer, and they are why you’re doing this in the first place!
It also helps to practice self-compassion. Be as kind to yourself as you would to a friend.
When self-criticism pops up, remind yourself that you can learn, grow, and make mistakes along the way.
Remember, everyone who has ever done something great has felt fear, too. They just didn’t let it stop them.
3. Know That Others Have Traveled the Same Path
Let me tell you about some real people who started right where you are now. They felt the fear, the doubt, and the weight of self-criticism. But they took a chance on themselves, put their message out into the world, and made a real difference.
A young man was once fired from a newspaper job because his employer said he "lacked imagination and had no good ideas." He also faced bankruptcy multiple times before finally achieving success with his animation company.
That guy was Walt Disney. He eventually did pretty well for himself.
Another example is a person who did not speak fluently until he was around four years old, leading some to believe he had learning disabilities. He also faced rejection when applying for academic positions early in his career.
But that didn’t stop Albert Einstein from becoming one of the most influential physicists in history!
Then there was the young boy who was crippled with shyness and low self-esteem for the first couple decades of his life. He went on to play in rock bands, do stand-up and improv comedy, publish 16 books, and run one of the most popular affirmation channels on YouTube.
Yep. I’m talking about yours truly.
What could happen if YOU gave yourself that same chance?
Imagine where you could be if you took one small daily step to share your message. What kind of impact could you make?
You have a message, a story, and a perspective that is uniquely yours. Someone out there needs to hear it from you.
Start with one small step, one new mindset, or one leap of courage.
I believe in you. Now, it’s time for you to believe in yourself.
Let’s break through the fear together!
With confidence and courage,
Bob