Outwork Your Self-doubt

Dear Family,

Self-doubt has a way of creeping in when we least expect it.

It whispers questions like, “Are you sure you’re ready for this?” or “What if you fail?” We’ve all been there. Whether it’s chasing a new professional goal, stepping into a bigger role, or simply trying to show up as your best self, doubt can be one of your biggest roadblocks.

But here’s the thing: you don’t beat self-doubt by thinking about it. You beat it by outworking it.

Two books that have shaped my thinking on this are The Confident Mind by Dr. Nate Zinsser and How Champions Think by Dr. Bob Rotella. Both highlight the same truth—confidence isn’t something you’re born with. It’s something you build. It’s a skill, just like anything else.

Building Confidence Through Action

Dr. Zinsser talks about how we can train our minds to focus on past wins, even small ones, to push back against self-doubt. Think about it: every time you’ve faced a challenge and come out stronger, you’ve built a little more confidence. The key is to intentionally remind yourself of those wins, especially when the next challenge feels overwhelming. Dr. Rotella takes it further, emphasizing that champions don’t just dream about the outcome—they focus on the process. It’s not about perfection. It’s about showing up, doing the work, and trusting the process, even when progress feels slow.

Small Steps, Big Wins

Here’s the thing: action kills doubt. Every small step you take is proof that you’re capable. It doesn’t have to be big. Send the email. Make the call. Show up for that early workout. Every single action moves you closer to your goals and further away from the grip of self-doubt. Big goals can feel overwhelming—trust me, I get it. But as Dr. Rotella says, “Goals are important, but plans and actions are critical.” So, take the pressure off. Break things down into manageable steps. Win the day, then do it again tomorrow.

The Year Isn’t Over Yet

As we head into the last few weeks of the year, I want to ask you: What’s one thing you can do today to outwork your self-doubt? What small step can you take to move closer to your goals? I’ve learned that the best way to silence doubt isn’t by waiting for confidence to magically appear. It’s by taking action, even when you’re unsure. Action creates proof, and proof builds confidence.

Whatever your goals are, remember this—you’re capable. You’ve already got everything you need inside of you to make it happen.

From LUX, With Love

Matt