I am strong

If your inner narrative revolves around what might go wrong, it’s no wonder your confidence is shaky – you’re continually questioning your ability to cope. A ‘can I cope’ mindset often starts in childhood when we’re constantly told to ‘be careful’. Catastrophising or imagining the worst-case scenario can seem like a smart way to prepare yourself for any eventuality, but it also keeps you stuck in your comfort zone. And the irony is that you know that dealing with new challenges helps to build your confidence.

When you’ve had low-level anxiety for so long it’s become your default mode, it’s no wonder you avoid pushing yourself – confidence can’t flourish when we’re afraid. Your overthinking is designed to keep you safe but what it’s actually doing is sabotaging your chances of feeling good about yourself. It’s time to focus on your personal triumphs – however tiny – or just everyday events that have gone well. And instead of allowing yourself to overthink something that might never happen, focus on regulating your nervous system with some breathing exercises instead, and coming back to your personal mantra of ‘I am strong’. Remind yourself of everything you’ve done in your life that shows what you’re really capable of.