Test: What will help you get unstuck?

If you have a clear sense of how you want your life to be different, but are still holding back from taking action, it could be that you lack underlying self-belief and confidence in your ability to make a success.

Confidence is multi-faceted and we all have areas where it is more robust than others. You may feel sure of your ability to knuckle down and work hard but doubt your ability to get others on board with your ideas. Or maybe you worry about how you will cope with setbacks or challenges.

Very few people are devoid of self-doubt, but what often differentiates those who take risks or are proactive about making changes from those who don’t is their relationship with that doubt. If your worries trigger a sense of blame or self-criticism, you may gradually convince yourself that you’re just not the type to make a big change, or that others have qualities that you lack. But by treating yourself with self-compassion instead, you’re more likely to understand the source of your doubt.

For many, it’s fear and our critical, negative voice is ultimately trying to protect us, albeit in a counter-productive way. Rather than fighting with these thoughts, try thanking them, then inviting them to take a step back while you take charge