Surrounding yourself with supportive, positive people can greatly impact your self-belief. Imagine you’re venturing into a new career. Surround yourself with colleagues and mentors who provide constructive feedback and encouragement. Their belief in you can reinforce your own self-belief.
Starting something new is scary. Learning to believe in yourself can be a critical precursor to starting a new initiative. Why is it so important to learn to believe in yourself? How can someone work on gaining these skills? In this interview series, we are talking to business leaders, authors, writers, coaches, medical professionals, teachers, to share empowering insights about “How To Learn To Believe In Yourself.” As a part of this series we had the pleasure of interviewing Ashlie Price.
Ashlie is Price a Self-Love & Connection Coach dedicated to empowering women. With 14 years of experience, she supports women in enhancing relationships, deepening connections, and prioritizing self-care. Utilizing mindset work, embodiment practices, and somatic techniques, Ashlie will guide you toward your core desires.
Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series! Before we dive into the main focus of our interview, our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your childhood backstory?
Absolutely, I greatly appreciate the opportunity to share my background. During my upbringing, I resided within my parents’ household, alongside my two brothers, in the setting of St. Bernard Parish, Louisiana, positioned just outside the vibrant city of New Orleans. Notably, my mother’s journey began with her immigration from Honduras during her early years, while my father is a native of New Orleans.
Following the separation of my parents, a new familial dimension emerged through my father’s subsequent marriage, resulting in the welcome addition of a half-sister. My personal interests encompassed a range of creative pursuits, including art and creative writing, as well as enjoying outdoor activities. In my formative years, I was notably reserved, maintaining a close-knit circle of friends while engaging in fewer outgoing endeavors.
Upon successfully graduating from Chalmette High School, I embarked on my collegiate journey, commencing with a year spent in the comfort of my home. Subsequently, I transitioned to Baton Rouge to enroll at LSU. Ultimately, my academic path led me to Texas, where I completed my undergraduate studies at The University of Texas at Tyler.
It has been said that our mistakes can be our greatest teachers. Can you share a story about the funniest mistake you made when you were first starting? Can you tell us what lesson you learned from that?
Starting out as a life coach, I was determined to help people overcome their challenges and fears. Little did I know, I was about to face one of my own — my shyness. During my first group coaching session, I found myself stuttering over my words, so much so that I started uncontrollably laughing (maybe even crying) and no one was even worried about understanding the content I was sharing because I was a living display of it.
The lesson I learned that day was twofold: first, taking a deep breath and embracing the discomfort is okay — it’s part of growth. Second, I quickly realized the power of humor in breaking the ice. So, I laughed off my name mishap and shared a personal story about overcoming shyness, which surprisingly helped create a more relaxed atmosphere.
That session taught me that authenticity and a willingness to laugh at oneself can build a genuine connection with clients. Plus, it turns out my shyness was a relatable starting point for many of them, and we bonded over our shared experiences.
What are some of the most interesting or exciting projects you are working on now? How do you think that might help people?
I have a few interesting projects that I am working on. I’ll list a few below:
- Zant.app- Through this app, I am offering a select amount of sliding scale sessions to help those who may be struggling but desire support in their own personal development.
- Mindbloom- As an integration coach and guide for over two years with this amazing company, I am supporting clients in their healing journey through their integration using ketamine-assisted psychotherapy.
- Soul-Purpose + Self Love- Using the Mastery Method (™) and The VITA Method (™), I am helping those looking to embody their own leadership qualities, while also forming a deeper connection to themselves using these two potent methodologies.
OK, thank you for all of that. Let’s now shift to the core focus of our interview. This will be intuitive to you but it will be helpful to spell this out directly. Can you help explain a few reasons why it is so important to believe in yourself? Can you share a story or give some examples?
Absolutely, I’d be happy to elaborate on the significance of believing in oneself. First and foremost, self-belief acts as a driving force for personal growth and achievement. When you have confidence in your abilities and potential, you’re more likely to set ambitious goals and work diligently to accomplish them. This self-assuredness propels you forward, encouraging you to tackle challenges with determination and resilience.
Moreover, believing in yourself positively influences your mindset and attitude. A strong self-belief can lead to a more optimistic outlook, enabling you to navigate setbacks with grace and view them as learning opportunities rather than insurmountable obstacles. This, in turn, fosters adaptability and a willingness to persist in the face of adversity.
Another key aspect is the impact self-belief has on your interactions with others. When you exude confidence in your abilities, it resonates with those around you. This can enhance your credibility, build trust, and inspire others to have confidence in your leadership or ideas. Your self-assuredness can also be contagious, encouraging a positive atmosphere and motivating others to strive for their best.
Ultimately, self-belief nurtures self-worth and healthy self-esteem. Recognizing your value and capabilities bolsters your mental and emotional well-being, reducing self-doubt and anxiety. It empowers you to make decisions aligned with your aspirations and passions, rather than succumbing to external pressures or doubts.
Though I mentioned earlier being introverted, there were many times in my career development where my self-belief overcame my fears of being outgoing. Over my life, I can account for over 5 different life-changing opportunities that may not have happened if I didn’t just “go for it.” Taking the risks I did turned out in traveling for work, meeting amazing people, and working with some of my greatest mentors.
What exactly does it mean to believe in yourself? Can I believe that I can be a great artist even though I’m not very talented? Can I believe I can be a gold medal Olympic even if I’m not athletic? Can you please explain what you mean?
Believing in yourself means having confidence in your own abilities, potential, and worth. It’s about having a positive perception of yourself and your capacity to achieve your goals, even when faced with challenges or self-doubt.
Believing that you can become a great artist despite not feeling very talented is a prime example of this. While natural talent can provide an initial advantage, dedication, hard work, and consistent practice are equally — if not more — important factors in artistic success. By believing in yourself, you’re acknowledging that with perseverance, you can improve your skills, refine your craft, and potentially reach a level of greatness.
Similarly, believing you can earn a gold medal in the Olympics even if you’re not naturally athletic is also about recognizing the potential for growth and achievement. Olympic athletes don’t start as experts; they undergo rigorous training, dedication, and a strong belief in their ability to push their limits. Your self-belief can motivate you to embrace the training process, overcome obstacles, and maximize your potential in pursuit of your goals.
In essence, believing in yourself doesn’t mean denying your current limitations or weaknesses. It’s about acknowledging them while simultaneously acknowledging your capacity to overcome them through effort, learning, and growth. Self-belief empowers you to set audacious goals, work relentlessly towards them, and maintain a positive attitude even in the face of setbacks. It’s a powerful tool that helps you harness your inner potential and make your aspirations a reality, even in areas where you might not have started with an inherent advantage.
Was there a time when you did not believe in yourself? How did this impact your choices?
Regrettably, there have been numerous instances in my life when my self-doubt has impeded my personal growth and accomplishments. Primarily, scenarios involving leading group workshops, teaching classes, or even participating as a guest on a podcast were occasions during which I doubted my own capabilities and value. Consequently, I found myself grappling with imposter syndrome and a sense of regret on various occasions for not taking advantage of these opportunities.
At what point did you realize that in order to get to the next level, it would be necessary to build up your belief in yourself? Can you share the story with us?
Honestly, I find myself currently in a phase where I wholeheartedly believe this to be true. Throughout the past year, I’ve undergone intensive training that has equipped me with transformative tools and personal lessons. These resources are truly life-changing, and not sharing them with the community and even myself would be a disservice of significant proportions. Reflecting on my 40 years of life, I’ve come to realize how much potential I’ve left untapped due to fear, and the missed opportunities that fear has entailed.
I’m prepared for a shift, even if it means confronting my fears head-on. As a coach, I’m acutely aware of the profound impact of uncovering untapped potential within my clients. Sharing my insights with them about what I envision for their growth is a role I take seriously. I’ve been fortunate to have had coaches and mentors share their perspectives on my own potential, and that experience has generated a strong commitment within me to step into that envisioned future.
What are your top 5 strategies that will help someone learn to believe in themselves? Please share a story or example for each.
Building self-belief is a gradual process, and here are five strategies that can help someone learn to believe in themselves:
1. Practice Self-Compassion:
- Treating oneself with kindness and understanding is essential. Imagine a scenario where you made a mistake at work. Instead of berating yourself, practice self-compassion. Acknowledge the mistake, remind yourself that everyone makes errors, and focus on the steps you can take to rectify it. Over time, this kind of self-talk cultivates a positive self-image.
2. Celebrate Small Wins:
- Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. For instance, if you managed to complete a challenging task, give yourself credit for your effort. These celebrations reinforce the notion that you are capable and competent.
3. Challenge Negative Self-Talk:
- Identify negative self-talk patterns and actively challenge them. Imagine you’re preparing for a presentation. If your inner voice says, “You’re going to mess this up,” counter it with evidence of your preparation and past successful presentations. Gradually, you’ll train your mind to focus on positive affirmations.
4. Set Realistic Goals:
- Break down large goals into smaller, achievable steps. For instance, if you aspire to run a marathon but aren’t a runner, start with a 5k race. As you achieve each milestone, your confidence grows, and you’ll believe more strongly in your ability to reach bigger objectives.
5. Surround Yourself with Positivity:
- Surrounding yourself with supportive, positive people can greatly impact your self-belief. Imagine you’re venturing into a new career. Surround yourself with colleagues and mentors who provide constructive feedback and encouragement. Their belief in you can reinforce your own self-belief.
Conversely, how can one stop the negative stream of self-criticism that often accompanies us as we try to grow?
To counteract the negative stream of self-criticism that often emerges as we strive for personal growth, it’s crucial to cultivate self-awareness and develop a mindful approach to our thoughts. Begin by recognizing and acknowledging self-critical patterns when they arise. Challenge these thoughts by evaluating their accuracy and considering alternative perspectives. Replace harsh self-judgments with compassionate and realistic self-talk, treating oneself as a friend rather than a critic. Focusing on progress rather than perfection, celebrating achievements, and engaging in mindfulness practices can help interrupt the cycle of self-criticism and foster a more positive self-belief as we navigate our journey of growth.
Are there any misconceptions about self-confidence and believing in oneself that you would like to dispel?
Certainly, there are a few misconceptions about self-confidence and self-belief that are worth addressing. Firstly, the idea that self-confidence implies a complete absence of insecurities is inaccurate. Even the most self-assured individuals experience moments of self-doubt or insecurity. True self-confidence involves effectively managing these doubts rather than eliminating them entirely. Similarly, the notion that self-belief requires a perpetually positive outlook is misleading. Building self-belief doesn’t mean suppressing negative emotions; rather, it entails acknowledging challenges and setbacks while maintaining faith in your ability to overcome them. It’s also important to recognize that self-belief isn’t exclusive to those with inherent talents. It’s a skill that can be developed through effort, learning, and consistent practice, making it accessible to everyone. Furthermore, self-belief doesn’t imply disregarding feedback or refusing to acknowledge areas for improvement. Rather, it involves valuing constructive input while retaining confidence in your capacity to learn and grow. Another misconception is that self-belief eradicates fear or doubt. In reality, fear and doubt can coexist with self-belief, and having faith in oneself empowers you to confront them with resilience. Lastly, self-belief isn’t a static trait; it’s dynamic and evolves over time. It requires ongoing effort, self-awareness, and the ability to adapt to new circumstances. In essence, these misconceptions can obscure the true nature of self-confidence and self-belief, making it essential to dispel them for a more accurate and comprehensive understanding.
What advice would you give to someone who is struggling with imposter syndrome?
If you find yourself grappling with imposter syndrome, there are several pieces of advice that can be immensely helpful.
Firstly, recognize that imposter syndrome is a common phenomenon that affects even accomplished individuals. You are not alone in experiencing it.
Secondly, challenge your negative self-perceptions by gathering evidence of your accomplishments and capabilities. Take note of your achievements, skills, and the value you bring to your work or endeavors.
Thirdly, embrace the concept of growth and learning. Understand that it’s okay to not know everything, and every new challenge is an opportunity for growth. Seek out new experiences that push you out of your comfort zone. Additionally, avoid comparing yourself to others, as this tends to amplify feelings of inadequacy. Focus on your progress and personal journey instead.
Finally, share your feelings with trusted friends, mentors, or a professional if needed. Sometimes, discussing imposter syndrome with others can provide reassurance and different perspectives. Remember, overcoming imposter syndrome is a gradual process that requires self-compassion, patience, and a willingness to challenge negative self-talk.
Ok, we are nearly done. You are a person of great influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good for the greatest number of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger.
Creating a movement centered around fostering empathy and understanding holds the potential to bring a profound positive impact on a vast number of people. This movement would focus on encouraging individuals from diverse backgrounds to actively engage in open conversations, seek common ground, and empathize with each other’s experiences. Through dialogue and shared stories, people can break down barriers, dispel stereotypes, and cultivate a deeper appreciation for the struggles and triumphs that shape each person’s life.
By promoting empathy on a global scale, this movement would foster a more inclusive and compassionate society. It has the potential to reduce prejudice, discrimination, and conflict while enhancing mutual respect and cooperation. When people understand and connect with one another’s perspectives, they are more likely to collaborate on solutions to societal challenges, collectively promoting positive change in areas like education, healthcare, poverty alleviation, and environmental sustainability.
This movement aligns with the values of unity and humanity, transcending cultural, political, and ideological differences. It can be fueled by storytelling, education, and community initiatives that encourage people to listen, learn, and embrace the richness of human diversity. Ultimately, by inspiring empathy and understanding, this movement would create a ripple effect of positive transformation, bringing substantial good to countless individuals and communities worldwide.
We are very blessed that some of the biggest names in Business, VC funding, Sports, and Entertainment read this column. Is there a person in the world, or in the US, whom you would love to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why? He or she might just see this, especially if we both tag them 🙂
I recently scored floor tickets to see Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour, and I think it would be pretty amazing to add on a meal with her, along with my concert experience. Though, I do believe my daughter would take the opportunity for herself.
How can our readers further follow your work online?
Thank you so much for this opportunity. I would love to connect! You can download my free 30-Days of Self-Care Guide at www.ashlieprice.com. Also, you may find me on IG @theashlieprice and LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashlieprice/ or on the zant app by searching my name to grab a sliding scale session, spots are limited!
Thank you for these really excellent insights, and we greatly appreciate the time you spent with this. We wish you continued success.