Take consistent action towards your goals: Taking consistent action towards your goals reinforces your belief in yourself. Break your goals into smaller, achievable steps and celebrate each milestone along the way. I coached an individual who wanted to run a marathon but doubted her physical capabilities. By consistently training, completing smaller races, and gradually increasing her mileage, she built up her belief in her ability to achieve her ultimate goal.
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 Harvard Certified Performance Coach Desiree’ Stapleton.
Desiree’ Stapleton is the Harvard Certified, 2x ’30 Under 30’ Honoree and Forbes ‘Next 1000’ Nominated Performance Coach, Author, CEO, and Creator of Goal Accomplishment Made Easy and the Self-Help App. She teaches women goal-setting and how to overcome obstacles and lead a life of fulfillment, while also providing tools and resources to ensure that they can get and stay on track with hitting their goals.
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?
My backstory begins roughly 36 months ago when I was going through a difficult period in my life. I had faced a traumatic experience at my job and made the tough decision to speak out about it, even if it meant facing uncertain outcomes. Unfortunately, I was laid off as a result. Around the same time, my relationship had ended, and my ex had moved on with someone within our social circle. I felt cast aside and discarded in two important areas of my life, going from a steady income to having nothing.
The repercussions of my decision to speak out were evident at my former job, as people distanced themselves from me. I even declared my willingness to take my experience with them to the media if they didn’t appropriately address the situation involving the other party. This led to sides being taken, whispers, and judgmental looks in both situations.
Feeling overwhelmed and hopeless, I reached a point where I no longer wanted to continue living. I drove home recklessly, not caring about the consequences and even hoping for a tragic accident to end it all quickly. At that moment, I was truly at a crossroads: either continue down a path of self-destruction or find a way to make my life worth living.
Fortunately, two thoughts emerged in my mind. First, I realized that I had a choice between ending my life or making it worth living. Second, I questioned why I should allow others to thrive while I suffered. These thoughts sparked a determination within me to turn my life around.
I started by seeking therapy and making a promise to myself. Before considering ending my life, I would go after every dream I had ever had. I embraced the mindset of “screw them” regarding my ex and embarked on creating my brand called FMYX. Initially, I focused on writing a book, which had always been a dream of mine. I used my savings, took out loans, utilized unemployment benefits, and even received COVID stimulus checks to hire someone to publish the book. It was published in November of that year.
Although my former workplace had technically addressed the issue by letting go of the individual involved, I felt it wasn’t enough. I decided to take that person to court, and to my satisfaction, I won the case. This victory held deep significance for me, as it allowed me to validate that what had happened was not okay, and I was no longer willing to tolerate such mistreatment.
To sustain myself financially, I went back to doing the work I had always done and quickly secured three clients. This stability provided me with the opportunity to focus on helping women facing similar challenges to mine. I pivoted from FMYX to my personal brand, becoming heavily involved in teaching women resilience and guiding them toward achieving their goals.
As I gained more visibility, I began to receive press coverage and even got featured in Forbes Magazine. This exposure helped me establish my second company, a boutique consulting firm aimed at providing tools and resources for personal and professional enhancement to everyday individuals. I learned firsthand the importance of goals and personal growth, as they played a significant role in saving me from my darkest moments.
With my second company thriving, I developed an app called The Self-Help App. Recognizing the value of personal growth, I wanted to create a positive and motivating space for individuals to enhance their personal development. This app aimed to restore hope and progress by providing tools and resources for personal growth and goal accomplishment.
I continued to grow personally and professionally, and my business expanded to the point where I could bring on a team. Currently, I am actively planning my move to the west coast and preparing to purchase my dream car in a few weeks.
I share my story with you to emphasize that each person possesses the strength and capabilities to live the life they envision. I want you to know that you are worthy of
achieving your dreams and that you have what it takes to overcome any obstacles that come your way. From one warrior to another, I encourage you to persevere, outlast all the challenges, and be the last one standing. You have the power to create a life that is fulfilling and meaningful.
What or who inspired you to pursue your career? We’d love to hear the story.
I was inspired to pursue my career by a combination of personal experiences and the wisdom I gained from influential figures. One person who played a significant role in shaping my journey is Judge Lynn Toler. Her words and the impact she has made in her career resonated deeply with me.
For me, her quote, “If I waited until I had all my ducks in a row, I’d never get across the street. Sometimes you just have to gather up what you’ve got and make a run for it” struck a chord with me because it encapsulates the essence of taking risks and pursuing one’s dreams, even in the face of uncertainty.
In my own life, I had reached a point where I felt stuck and dissatisfied with the status quo. I had dreams and aspirations, but I often found myself holding back, waiting for the perfect conditions or waiting until I felt fully prepared. Judge Toler’s quote served as a wake-up call, reminding me that waiting for everything to be perfect was holding me back from pursuing my true passions.
Her words inspired me to gather up the resources, skills, and courage I already possessed and take that leap of faith towards my desired career. I realized that waiting for the right moment would only result in missed opportunities and regret. Instead, I embraced the idea of making a run for it, even if things weren’t perfectly aligned.
This realization propelled me to take actionable steps towards my career goals. I pursued further education and certifications, including my Harvard certification in Business Strategy and Strategy Execution. I sought out mentors, engaged in networking opportunities, and continuously honed my skills. Each step I took was fueled by the understanding that waiting for the perfect conditions would only hinder my progress.
Judge Lynn Toler’s quote continues to inspire me as a daily reminder to embrace imperfection, take calculated risks, and seize the opportunities that come my way. Her words have empowered me to step out of my comfort zone, embrace uncertainty, and pursue my career with determination and resilience.
I am grateful for the wisdom and inspiration I have gained from Judge Lynn Toler’s quote. It has helped shape my mindset, instilled in me the courage to pursue my passions, and continues to serve as a guiding principle in my career journey.
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?
Certainly! When I reflect on the early days of implementing Goal Accomplishment Made Easy (GAME), there is one memorable and amusing mistake that comes to mind.
During the initial launch of the Goal Accomplishment Made Easy program, we organized a live webinar to introduce the concept and engage with potential participants. As the host, I was responsible for managing the technical aspects of the webinar, including screen sharing and multimedia presentations.
Everything seemed to be going smoothly until the moment I clicked on the wrong presentation slide. Instead of sharing the planned slide deck, I accidentally displayed a comical image that had no relevance to the content we were discussing. It was a lighthearted and funny image, but it had nothing to do with the webinar’s purpose or objectives.
Initially, there was a moment of confusion as participants wondered what had happened. However, rather than getting flustered, I quickly acknowledged the mistake and took it in stride. I laughed along with the participants, making light of the situation and ensuring that we all had a good laugh together.
In retrospect, this funny mistake taught me a valuable lesson about the importance of maintaining composure and adapting to unexpected situations. Instead of dwelling on the error or letting it throw off the flow of the webinar, I embraced it as an opportunity to connect with the participants on a more personal and relatable level. By acknowledging the mistake, making light of it, and sharing a genuine laugh, we were able to create a more relaxed and engaging atmosphere.
The lesson I learned from this experience is that mistakes happen, and it’s essential to handle them with grace and humor. In moments of mishaps or unexpected turns, embracing the situation and finding the lighter side can help build rapport, foster authenticity, and create memorable connections with others.
This funny mistake also reminded me of the importance of being prepared for technical glitches and having backup plans in place. It reinforced the need to double-check presentation materials and ensure that everything is in order before going live. While mistakes can provide unexpected moments of humor, it’s still crucial to strive for professionalism and maintain a level of preparedness.
Ultimately, this lighthearted mistake highlighted the importance of embracing the human side of leadership and embracing imperfections. It taught me to approach challenges and mistakes with a sense of humor, adaptability, and the ability to connect with others in a genuine and relatable way.
What are some of the most interesting or exciting projects you are working on now? How do you think that might help people?
Absolutely! We are constantly working on new and exciting projects within Goal Accomplishment Made Easy (GAME) to further support and empower individuals on their journey towards accomplishing their goals. Allow me to share one of our current projects and how it can help people.
One of our ongoing projects involves developing a comprehensive online platform that combines all aspects of the Goal Accomplishment Made Easy program into a user-friendly digital experience. This platform will serve as a hub for individuals to access resources, tools, and guidance for their personal growth and goal accomplishment.
Through this platform, users will have easy access to a wide range of educational content, including workshops, courses, and interactive modules. They will be able to explore various topics related to personal development, productivity, mindset, and overcoming obstacles. The platform will provide a structured framework to guide individuals in setting goals, tracking progress, and staying motivated.
Additionally, the platform will feature a robust community component, allowing users to connect with like-minded individuals, find accountability partners, and engage in meaningful discussions. The sense of belonging and support within this community will foster collaboration, inspiration, and the sharing of experiences and insights.
By consolidating all these resources and features into one online platform, we aim to make personal growth and goal accomplishment accessible to a broader audience. It will provide individuals with a convenient and comprehensive resource to enhance their lives, regardless of their geographical location or time constraints.
We believe that this project will help people by offering them a structured and supportive platform to embark on their personal growth journey. It will empower individuals with the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to overcome challenges, break through limitations, and achieve their goals. The online platform will create a dynamic and engaging environment where users can find inspiration, learn from experts, and connect with a community that shares their aspirations.
Ultimately, our goal is to make personal growth and goal accomplishment an enjoyable and transformative experience for individuals from all walks of life. We are excited about the potential impact this project can have in empowering people to unlock their full potential, lead fulfilling lives, and make lasting positive changes in themselves and their communities.
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?
Believing in oneself is crucial for personal growth, resilience, and achieving success. Here are a few reasons why it is so important to believe in yourself:
1. Self-Confidence: When you believe in yourself, you develop self-confidence. This confidence allows you to take on new challenges, overcome obstacles, and navigate through uncertainties with a positive mindset. Without self-belief, self-doubt can creep in and hinder your progress.
For example, let’s say you have a goal to start your own business. If you believe in yourself and your abilities, you’ll have the confidence to take the necessary steps, such as developing a business plan, seeking funding, and navigating the challenges that arise along the way. Your belief in yourself will give you the determination to persevere and turn your vision into a reality.
2. Resilience in the Face of Adversity: Believing in yourself helps build resilience, which is essential when facing setbacks or failures. Life is full of ups and downs, and it’s during the challenging times that self-belief becomes crucial. When you have confidence in your abilities and believe in your capacity to overcome obstacles, you can bounce back stronger and find alternative solutions.
Imagine you’re working on a project that encounters unexpected difficulties and setbacks. If you have self-belief, you’ll view these challenges as temporary hurdles rather than insurmountable obstacles. You’ll tap into your inner strength, adapt your approach, and persevere until you achieve your desired outcome.
3. Embracing Opportunities: Believing in yourself opens doors to new opportunities. When you have faith in your abilities, you’re more likely to seize opportunities and step outside your comfort zone. By taking risks and embracing new experiences, you can unlock your full potential and discover uncharted territories of success.
For instance, let’s say you’re presented with an opportunity to speak at a prestigious conference. If you believe in yourself and your expertise, you’ll be more inclined to accept the opportunity, even if it feels intimidating. Your belief in yourself will empower you to deliver a compelling presentation and make a lasting impact on the audience.
4. Positive Mindset and Motivation: Believing in yourself nurtures a positive mindset and fuels your motivation. When you trust in your abilities and envision success, you create a positive mental framework that propels you forward. This positive mindset allows you to approach challenges with optimism and find solutions even in the face of adversity.
Consider a situation where you’re pursuing a fitness goal. If you believe in yourself and your ability to achieve it, you’ll approach your workouts with enthusiasm and dedication. Your belief in yourself will keep you motivated, even when progress seems slow, and ultimately lead to the desired outcome.
Believing in oneself is the foundation for personal and professional growth. It empowers you to take risks, embrace challenges, and strive for excellence. By cultivating self-belief, you unlock your full potential and pave the way for a fulfilling and successful life journey.
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 abilities, potential, and worth. It is about recognizing your strengths and embracing your unique qualities, while also acknowledging areas for growth and improvement. While belief in oneself is important, it’s essential to maintain a realistic perspective.
Believing in yourself doesn’t mean ignoring reality or denying your current limitations. It’s not about having blind faith that you can achieve anything without putting in the necessary effort. Instead, it’s about cultivating a positive mindset and harnessing your inner resources to work towards your goals.
Regarding your examples, believing in yourself as a great artist or an Olympic gold medalist involves a combination of factors:
1. Passion and Dedication: Believing in yourself means having a deep passion for your chosen field and being willing to put in the time and effort to develop your skills. If you have a genuine love for art, for example, and you commit to consistent practice, learning, and improvement, you can cultivate your artistic abilities over time and become a better artist.
2. Growth Mindset: Believing in yourself involves adopting a growth mindset, where you see challenges as opportunities for learning and development. Even if you don’t consider yourself naturally talented, you can still believe in your potential to grow and improve through dedication, perseverance, and seeking guidance from mentors or experts in the field.
3. Realistic Goals and Self-Awareness: Believing in yourself means setting realistic goals based on your current abilities and acknowledging your limitations. While you may not become a world-renowned artist or win an Olympic gold medal overnight, you can still believe in your potential to make progress and achieve personal milestones. It’s important to align your belief with achievable goals and focus on continuous improvement.
4. Positive Self-Talk and Visualization: Believing in yourself requires cultivating positive self-talk and visualizing success. By affirming your abilities, embracing a positive mindset, and envisioning yourself as a successful artist or athlete, you create a mental framework that supports your growth and motivation.
Ultimately, believing in yourself is about recognizing your potential and having the confidence to pursue your passions and goals. It involves embracing your unique journey and understanding that success is a result of hard work, perseverance, and continuous learning. While talent can provide an initial advantage, belief in oneself can propel you to surpass limitations, overcome obstacles, and achieve remarkable results.
Was there a time when you did not believe in yourself? How did this impact your choices?
Yes, there was a time when I did not believe in myself. It was during the difficult period I described earlier, where I faced traumatic experiences and significant challenges. The lack of self-belief had a profound impact on my choices and overall outlook on life.
When I didn’t believe in myself, I felt paralyzed by self-doubt and fear. It limited my willingness to take risks and pursue opportunities that could potentially lead to growth and success. I often second-guessed my abilities and constantly questioned whether I had what it took to overcome obstacles and achieve my goals.
The impact of this lack of belief was evident in the choices I made. I found myself hesitating to seize opportunities, settling for less than I deserved, and even contemplating giving up on my dreams. It created a negative cycle where I constantly undermined my own potential and allowed external circumstances to dictate my worth and potential for success.
However, as I mentioned earlier, there came a turning point when I realized the importance of belief in oneself. It was a pivotal moment that pushed me to seek therapy and make a promise to pursue my dreams before considering any drastic measures.
Embracing the power of self-belief transformed my choices and actions. It propelled me to take bold steps, such as starting my own brand, publishing a book, seeking justice through legal action, and helping others facing similar challenges. Believing in myself allowed me to tap into my resilience, step outside my comfort zone, and pursue paths that aligned with my true aspirations.
The impact of building self-belief was profound. It transformed my mindset, enabling me to overcome obstacles with greater determination and resilience. It opened doors to new opportunities and empowered me to take ownership of my life. With belief in myself, I made choices aligned with my values, dreams, and long-term growth.
Today, I can confidently say that my choices are guided by a strong belief in myself and my abilities. The impact of embracing self-belief has been life-changing, enabling me to navigate challenges, pursue ambitious goals, and create a life filled with purpose and fulfillment.
I share this story to emphasize the significance of self-belief and its impact on our choices. When we don’t believe in ourselves, we limit our potential and hinder our progress. But when we cultivate self-belief, we unlock a world of possibilities and empower ourselves to make choices that align with our true potential and aspirations.
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?
At a certain point in my journey, I realized that in order to reach the next level of success and fulfillment, I needed to build up my belief in myself. This realization came as I faced significant challenges and setbacks, and I recognized that my lack of self-belief was holding me back from achieving my goals.
The turning point came when I developed my program called Goal Accomplishment Made Easy. As I delved into the principles and strategies of goal accomplishment, I understood that belief in oneself was a fundamental pillar of success. It became clear to me that without a strong belief in my own abilities and potential, it would be difficult to overcome obstacles and persevere through the inevitable setbacks and difficulties along the way.
To illustrate this point, let me share a story from my own experience. During the early stages of developing Goal Accomplishment Made Easy, I faced numerous challenges and doubts. I questioned whether I had what it took to create a program that could truly help individuals achieve their goals. I doubted my knowledge, skills, and expertise, and I worried about how it would be received by others.
However, as I immersed myself in the process of creating the program and working with individuals who sought guidance, I began to witness the transformative power of belief in oneself. I saw how individuals who embraced their own potential and believed in their ability to achieve their goals experienced remarkable progress and success. Their belief in themselves fueled their motivation, resilience, and determination to overcome obstacles and stay committed to their goals.
This realization became a pivotal moment for me. I understood that if I wanted to take my program to the next level and truly make a meaningful impact, I needed to strengthen my own belief in myself. I recognized that my own self-belief would not only influence my own success but also inspire and empower others to believe in themselves and accomplish their goals.
With this newfound understanding, I took deliberate steps to build up my belief in myself. I invested time in personal growth, self-reflection, and self-care. I surrounded myself with positive influences, sought mentorship and support, and continuously expanded my knowledge and skills in my field. These actions helped me cultivate a deep sense of self-belief and confidence in my abilities as a coach and mentor.
As I embraced my own belief in myself and witnessed the transformative impact it had on my own life and the lives of those I worked with, I became even more dedicated to sharing the importance of self-belief through Goal Accomplishment Made Easy. It became an integral part of the program, and I incorporated strategies and exercises specifically designed to strengthen belief in oneself.
Today, I continue to empower individuals to build up their belief in themselves through Goal Accomplishment Made Easy. I encourage them to challenge their self-limiting beliefs, embrace their unique strengths and talents, and cultivate a positive mindset that propels them forward. By helping individuals build their self-belief, I am confident in their ability to reach new levels of success, fulfillment, and personal growth.
In conclusion, the realization that building up my belief in myself was essential to reaching the next level came as I developed Goal Accomplishment Made Easy. Witnessing the transformative power of self-belief in the lives of individuals I worked with solidified this understanding. It became clear that belief in oneself is not just a nice-to-have but a critical factor that determines our ability to overcome challenges, stay committed to our goals, and ultimately achieve our full potential.
What are your top 5 strategies that will help someone learn to believe in themselves? Please share a story or example for each.
Certainly! Here are my top five strategies that can help someone learn to believe in themselves, along with stories or examples for each:
1. Challenge self-limiting beliefs: One of the most important strategies is to challenge self-limiting beliefs that hold you back. Identify negative thoughts or beliefs that undermine your confidence and replace them with positive affirmations. For example, I once worked with a client who believed she was not talented enough to pursue her dream of becoming an artist. By challenging her belief and recognizing her unique artistic style, she started to believe in her own abilities and went on to create stunning artwork.
2. Celebrate past achievements: Reflecting on your past achievements can boost your self-belief. Take time to celebrate your accomplishments, both big and small. Remembering instances where you overcame challenges and achieved success can reinforce your belief in your abilities. I worked with a client who struggled with self-doubt in her career. By creating a list of her past achievements and revisiting them regularly, she gained confidence in her skills and realized the value she brought to her work.
3. Surround yourself with positive influences: Surrounding yourself with positive and supportive people can greatly impact your self-belief. Seek out individuals who believe in your potential and encourage your growth. I had a client who joined a supportive community of like-minded individuals pursuing similar goals. The encouragement and belief they received from the community members played a significant role in strengthening their belief in themselves.
4. Embrace failure as a learning opportunity: Failure is a natural part of the journey to success. Embracing failure as a learning opportunity rather than a reflection of your worth can help build self-belief. I worked with an entrepreneur who faced several setbacks in launching her business. Instead of letting failure discourage her, she reframed it as valuable feedback and used it to refine her strategies. Through this process, she developed resilience and a stronger belief in her ability to succeed.
5. Take consistent action towards your goals: Taking consistent action towards your goals reinforces your belief in yourself. Break your goals into smaller, achievable steps and celebrate each milestone along the way. I coached an individual who wanted to run a marathon but doubted her physical capabilities. By consistently training, completing smaller races, and gradually increasing her mileage, she built up her belief in her ability to achieve her ultimate goal.
By incorporating these strategies into your journey, you can learn to believe in yourself and unlock your full potential. Remember, building self-belief is a process that requires patience, persistence, and self-compassion. With dedication and practice, you can cultivate a deep sense of belief in yourself and achieve extraordinary things.
Conversely, how can one stop the negative stream of self-criticism that often accompanies us as we try to grow?
Certainly! Here are a few strategies to help stop the negative stream of self-criticism:
1. Practice self-compassion: Self-compassion involves treating yourself with kindness, understanding, and empathy. When self-criticism arises, consciously choose to respond with self-compassion instead. Remind yourself that making mistakes and facing challenges are a natural part of growth. Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer to a friend who is going through a similar situation.
2. Challenge negative thoughts: Become aware of your negative self-talk and challenge those thoughts. Ask yourself if there is evidence to support those thoughts or if they are based on unfounded assumptions. Replace negative self-criticism with positive and realistic self-affirmations. For example, if you catch yourself thinking, “I always mess things up,” challenge that thought by reminding yourself of times when you succeeded or overcame obstacles.
3. Reframe mistakes as opportunities for growth: Instead of viewing mistakes as failures, reframe them as opportunities for learning and growth. Embrace the idea that setbacks and failures are stepping stones to success. When you encounter a mistake or failure, reflect on the lessons learned and how you can improve in the future. This shift in perspective can help you break free from the negative self-criticism cycle.
4. Surround yourself with positive support: Surround yourself with a supportive network of friends, mentors, or coaches who can provide encouragement and constructive feedback. Seek out individuals who believe in your potential and can help you maintain a positive mindset. Their support and perspective can help counteract self-criticism and provide a more balanced view of your abilities and progress.
5. Focus on progress, not perfection: Shift your focus from perfection to progress. Embrace the idea that growth is a continuous journey rather than a destination. Celebrate even the smallest steps forward and acknowledge your progress along the way. Recognize that self-criticism hinders progress and replace it with a growth mindset that values effort, learning, and improvement.
Remember, stopping the negative stream of self-criticism is a process that requires self-awareness and consistent practice. With time and effort, you can develop a more positive and compassionate mindset, allowing yourself to thrive and grow.
Are there any misconceptions about self-confidence and believing in oneself that you would like to dispel?
Certainly! Here are a few common misconceptions about self-confidence and believing in oneself that I would like to dispel:
1. Misconception: Self-confidence means being perfect and having no doubts.
Reality: Self-confidence does not mean having all the answers or being perfect. It is about trusting in your abilities and being willing to take on challenges, even with uncertainties. Self-confidence is recognizing that mistakes and setbacks are a part of the learning process and that you have the resilience to bounce back and keep moving forward.
2. Misconception: Believing in oneself is a fixed trait that you either have or don’t have.
Reality: Belief in oneself is not a fixed trait; it is a skill that can be developed and strengthened over time. It requires self-awareness, self-compassion, and a willingness to challenge self-limiting beliefs. Everyone has the potential to believe in themselves; it just takes practice and a growth mindset.
3. Misconception: Believing in oneself means ignoring constructive feedback or criticism.
Reality: Believing in oneself does not mean disregarding feedback or criticism. It means having the confidence to consider and evaluate feedback objectively, separating it from your self-worth. Believing in yourself involves acknowledging areas for improvement, seeking opportunities to learn and grow, and using feedback as a tool for personal development.
4. Misconception: Self-confidence is only for extroverted or outgoing individuals.
Reality: Self-confidence is not limited to extroverted or outgoing individuals. It is a mindset and belief in one’s abilities, regardless of personality type. Introverted individuals can possess deep self-confidence rooted in their strengths, values, and expertise. Self-confidence is about recognizing and leveraging your unique qualities, regardless of your level of extraversion or introversion.
5. Misconception: Believing in oneself means never experiencing self-doubt.
Reality: It is normal to experience moments of self-doubt, even for individuals with a strong belief in themselves. Belief in oneself is about acknowledging and managing self-doubt, rather than avoiding it altogether. It involves cultivating resilience, challenging negative thoughts, and reminding oneself of past successes and strengths.
By dispelling these misconceptions, we can create a more realistic and empowering understanding of self-confidence and belief in oneself. It is a lifelong journey of growth, self-discovery, and embracing the potential within each of us to achieve our goals and dreams.
What advice would you give to someone who is struggling with imposter syndrome?
If you’re struggling with imposter syndrome, here are a few pieces of advice that can help you overcome it:
1. Recognize that you’re not alone: Imposter syndrome is more common than you might think, and many high-achieving individuals experience it. Knowing that you’re not alone can provide a sense of comfort and help you realize that your feelings are shared by others.
2. Reframe your thinking: Instead of dwelling on self-doubt and focusing on your perceived shortcomings, reframe your thinking to acknowledge your achievements, skills, and experiences. Make a list of your accomplishments and remind yourself of the hard work and dedication that got you to where you are today.
3. Embrace imperfection: Understand that perfection is an unrealistic expectation. No one is flawless, and everyone makes mistakes. Embrace the concept of growth and learning from failures. Give yourself permission to make mistakes and view them as opportunities for growth rather than as evidence of your incompetence.
4. Seek support and share your feelings: Reach out to a trusted friend, mentor, or coach who can provide guidance and support. Share your feelings of imposter syndrome with them, as discussing it openly can help alleviate its hold on you. Remember, receiving support and encouragement from others can help boost your confidence and provide valuable perspective.
5. Celebrate small victories: Acknowledge and celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. Recognize that every step forward is a milestone worth celebrating. By acknowledging your progress, you reinforce your belief in your abilities and build resilience against imposter syndrome.
6. Continuously learn and grow: Invest in your personal and professional development. Acquiring new knowledge and skills can enhance your self-confidence and competence in your field. Seek opportunities for learning, such as attending workshops, taking courses, or seeking guidance from experts in your industry.
7. Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself and practice self-compassion. Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer to a friend facing similar challenges. Remember that self-doubt is a natural part of the human experience, and it doesn’t define your worth or capabilities.
By implementing these strategies and cultivating a positive mindset, you can gradually overcome imposter syndrome and develop a stronger belief in yourself and your abilities. Remember, building self-confidence is a journey, and it takes time and practice. Be patient with yourself and celebrate your progress along the way.
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.
If I had the opportunity to inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, it would be a movement centered around empowering individuals to set and achieve meaningful goals through Goal Accomplishment Made Easy (GAME).
The core idea behind this movement would be to equip individuals with the tools, mindset, and support they need to overcome obstacles, unlock their full potential, and create positive change in their lives. The movement would encourage individuals to dream big, believe in themselves, and take action towards their aspirations.
Through the Goal Accomplishment Made Easy movement, we would promote the importance of goal-setting, personal growth, and resilience. We would emphasize that everyone has the capacity to accomplish their goals and that success is within reach with the right strategies and mindset. The movement would encourage individuals to challenge their self-limiting beliefs, embrace a growth mindset, and pursue their goals with determination and perseverance.
Practical resources, such as workshops, online courses, and mentorship programs, would be made widely accessible to empower individuals from all walks of life. These resources would provide guidance on setting clear and achievable goals, breaking them down into manageable steps, and maintaining motivation throughout the journey.
The movement would also focus on fostering a supportive community where individuals can connect, share experiences, and inspire one another. Accountability partnerships, mentorship networks, and online forums would provide a space for individuals to exchange insights, seek guidance, and celebrate each other’s successes. The power of collective support and shared experiences would amplify the impact of the movement.
The ripple effects of this movement would be profound. As individuals gain confidence and accomplish their goals, they would become catalysts for positive change in their families, communities, and beyond. The movement would empower individuals to pursue their passions, contribute their unique talents to society, and make a difference in areas that align with their values and interests.
By embracing the Goal Accomplishment Made Easy movement, individuals would experience personal growth, fulfillment, and a greater sense of purpose. The movement would inspire individuals to take control of their lives, pursue their dreams, and create a positive impact on the world around them.
Ultimately, the aim of the Goal Accomplishment Made Easy movement is to unleash the potential within each individual, enabling them to lead purposeful, fulfilling lives and contribute to the collective well-being of society. It is through empowering individuals to achieve their goals that we can bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, one life at a time.
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 🙂
If given the opportunity, two extraordinary individuals with whom I would be honored to have a private breakfast or lunch are Malala Yousafzai and Judge Lynn Toler. Their remarkable achievements, dedication to empowerment, and impact on the world make them inspiring figures in their respective fields.
Sitting down with Malala Yousafzai, the renowned advocate for girls’ education, would be a truly transformative experience. I would cherish the opportunity to learn from her firsthand about her relentless pursuit of educational equality, her unwavering courage in the face of adversity, and her strategies for effecting change. Exploring ways to collaborate and amplify efforts in empowering individuals, particularly girls and women, would be a meaningful part of our conversation. Through her resilience and determination, Malala has ignited a global movement, and her wisdom would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on my journey within Goal Accomplishment Made Easy.
In addition, sharing a private meal with Judge Lynn Toler, the respected television personality and former judge, would be a remarkable opportunity to delve into topics of conflict resolution, personal growth, and navigating difficult life transitions. Engaging in discussions about effective communication, strategies for resolving conflicts, and empowering individuals during challenging circumstances would provide invaluable insights for both myself and the work we do. Judge Lynn Toler’s expertise in guiding individuals through complex situations with empathy and fairness would offer profound lessons on resilience and emotional well-being.
While the chances of this message reaching them directly may be uncertain, the collective power of admiration, shared aspirations, and the desire to make a positive impact can lead to unexpected opportunities. By expressing my deep respect for Malala and Judge Lynn Toler, I hope to contribute to the dialogue surrounding empowerment, education, and personal growth.
In conclusion, having the privilege of sharing a meal with Malala Yousafzai and Judge Lynn Toler would be an extraordinary honor. Their wisdom, experiences, and dedication to empowering individuals would undoubtedly inspire and enrich my own journey within Goal Accomplishment Made Easy. The lessons learned from these remarkable individuals would guide and shape the work we do, empowering individuals to overcome obstacles, achieve their goals, and create a more equitable and compassionate world.
How can our readers further follow your work online?
They can join our newsletter to receive tips and tricks on how to accomplish their goals with confidence and ease! We release two blog posts a week to our newsletter on that topic!
They can also download our free guide that will help them discover the secrets to setting goals, overcoming setbacks, and becoming a high performer.
Or, they can chat with us over at desireestapleton.com.
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Thank you for these really excellent insights, and we greatly appreciate the time you spent with this. We wish you continued success.