The answer is yes, but it depends on which type. Self doubt can be a GOOD SIGNAL.
TWO Types of Self Doubt:
There’s traditional self doubt, the kind where you feel exposed, like someone's going to find out you aren't as good as you say you are. Or just that you're "not good enough", which is a limiting belief.
And there’s the second kind, that I call the signalling kind that it pays to take notice of.
When does self-doubt come up for you?
We tend to think self doubt only creeps in when we are on the way up the ladder. Believe me that’s so not the case.
I talk to leaders in very well established, senior roles who deal with their inner critic and self doubt on the regular. And you probably wouldn't know it if you met them.
Sometimes this is the regular kind (type 1 above), and classic impostor syndrome. Feeling we're not quite up to the role or others expectations. (At least you’re in good company with 70% of high performing professionals who share this tendency).
How do I know that this is a SIGNAL?
Sometimes, our self doubt is signalling we need a life change. It can feel like longing or discontent (both are your growth signals).
I know this through lived experience in the corporate world. As well as the work I do now in Leadership coaching. This picture is me in my mid forties after reinventing and rediscovering myself, at my core: it was a real life GLOW UP
Does this sound familiar to you?
Some of you may find my story relatable; you're in your dream role, the one you worked so hard and long for. But finding that the reality isn’t quite the same as you dreamed it would be.
Leading to the classic burnout trail: we prioritise work over our own mental health and relationships (with ourselves as well as others) it’s become a hard habit to break.
What could I try to help me navigate this stage of life?
Reconnecting with what really mattered to me was the first step. Reinventing myself and starting my leadership and workshops business was the next step on my chosen path. And you can see my children are a big part of that!
Almost ten years later, I now help high performing leaders and professionals to refine their life and career path. Especially when it’s out of balance.
Sometimes all this means is reconnecting with ourselves so that we can advocate for:
Our own needs.
And set appropriate boundaries in all aspects of life.
If you're looking for a sign this may be it!
Ways to connect with me:
Connect with me privately to ask a question, book a session or workshop or request a free intro strategy meeting