overcoming self doubt

3 Times I Had Self-Doubt and How I Overcame It

Self-doubt is normal, especially in new situations. The most confident people even have their moments, but for others, self-doubt can be so overwhelming it paralyzes a person. I was fortunate to have parents who instilled confidence in us that we could accomplish anything with God’s help.

But even with that kind of foundation of love and encouragement, it still can be difficult to face unknown challenges. This has been the case with my life. These are the 3 biggest times I was confronted with overcoming self-doubt.

When I Went to College

As a freshman in college, I thought I was a good athlete and student, but I questioned myself. I wondered how I was actually going to perform. Would I be able to live up to the success of those who came before me or would I fall short?

When I Went into the NFL

Then, I went undrafted to the talented Pittsburgh Steelers in the NFL. Self-doubt crept into my head again. The same thoughts I had in college came flooding back. Can I even make this team? Would I be good enough?

When I Became a Coach

Fifteen years later, I received an opportunity in a new position as head coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. I had these thoughts: Is this going to work? Am I going to be able to do it? Do I have the right formula? Those thoughts only intensified after we lost our first five games.

I had to learn to do these two things.

Two things helped me overcome my self-doubt. The first was some advice my mom gave. She told me not to worry about the things I couldn’t control. Just focus on the things I could control, work on those, and do my best. She said that if I did those things, I would be fine. In times of self-doubt, I have always remembered to focus on her advice.

The second is depending on the Lord. Anytime I face self-doubt, I spend a lot of time in prayer and no matter what happens, I place my trust in Him. That has helped me overcome self-doubt.

Sound off: How do you recommend overcoming self-doubt?

Huddle up with your kids and ask, “What are some things that you worry about?”