“Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right.” -Henry Ford
Every year, in the weeks leading up to a retreat, I receive emails from new yogi-travelers. They share their concerns and mild fears about our upcoming adventures in a foreign land.
I now lovingly refer to these honest, vulnerable messages as “the yogi-confessions.” And I hold them close to my heart.💜
Some confess their “sins” of holiday indulgence or “failure” to maintain a consistent yoga practice. They warn that they may not be strong enough, flexible enough, or fit enough to “keep up” with the group.
Others come forward with trepidation about group dynamics. A few even announce that they’re not “joiners,” not interested in connecting, and might spend much time alone.
Almost everyone follows their confession, proclaiming they will hang out in the back of each yoga class and do their own thing.
Ah…the back row. Don’t we ALL love the safety of the back row?
I sure do! Especially in new situations.
Stepping out of our comfort zone and trying something new with a new group is a brave endeavor.
And it can unearth self-doubt about belonging and fitting in. Fears we thought we left in the dust on our journey through adolescence suddenly rise to the surface and are alive again. No one wants to revisit THAT landscape.
But what is the alternative? Staying in your comfort zone at all times. Trying to control everything…and eventually organizing your canned food alphabetically in your cupboard. All the while robbing yourself of the opportunity to learn and grow. No, thanks!
Truth is everyone experiences self-doubt from time to time. Even the most successful, most spiritually evolved, and happiest humans alive. It’s normal!
I feel it almost every time I hit “send” on these love notes to you. Weird, but true.
The key is not to let self-doubt derail us and keep us from taking risks and leading the life we so deeply desire. Unregulated self-doubt is a dream crusher, for sure!
So, what can you do today to kick self-doubt to the curb?
1. Write down what it will take to accomplish your dream.
2. Look at your list and decide if you’re ALL IN
If not, then let it go. That dream wasn’t for you, or you’re not quite ready. Real change requires time, energy, commitment, and support.
Be honest. 🙂
3. Determine the smallest possible step you could take toward your aim
Choose something that you’re confident is 100% achievable.
4. Take That Step!
5. Celebrate Your Accomplishment!!
Don’t skip this. 🙂 Put both arms in the air and say, “I did it” out loud.
6. Prepare to tackle step two.
With steady, consistent focus, your progress will stoke your self-confidence. And your self-confidence will begin to give your self-doubt the boot more often than not. And over time?…well, there is no limit to what you can accomplish.
I’d love to hear how your first steps go!
Send me a message and let me know!
Lastly, don’t hesitate to reach out with questions. I’m rooting for you!
💜 “Bamboo can barely be seen for the first five years as it builds extensive root systems underground before exploding ninety feet into the air within six weeks.” James Clear, Atomic Habits 💜
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