It’s part of the human experience to doubt ourselves and the endeavors that are important to us. By being a social media influencer, you are choosing to put your life out in the world for any and all to see—no wonder it feels daunting. You can’t physically see all of the people that are tuning into your life, but you know they’re there–in the comments, likes, responses, emails. You’re fortunate enough to have experiences worth sharing and people who are wanting to listen and learn from you.
But what are you supposed to do when fear creeps in? Imposter syndrome comes around unprompted all the time. How do you combat the doubts that seep into your mind at night? What are those fears and doubts? What do they really mean?
Read on to learn ways to overcome fear and doubt as a social media influencer.
Don’t Overthink It
I know, I know. This is way easier said than done. But, sometimes just a reminder to not overthink it can make all the difference.
Sometimes we get lost in our own brains and we start nitpicking ourselves, creating feelings of insecurity, when you know, and I know, you are MORE than qualified for this. You have a purpose and you will never know how much of an impact you can make if you never try. Try not to limit your amazing abilities by overthinking yourself into oblivion. Remember, you have words and stories to share—words and stories that could change someone else’s life.
If you feel yourself beginning to overthink about a certain project you’re wanting to start, take a breather. Go for a quick walk. Listen to a motivating podcast. Give your brain space to re-energize and come back with a fresh mindset. Then maybe you’ll come to find your overthinking was just a product of self-doubt. Taking that time away to re-gather can be essential to you and your brand. Allowing yourself time to feel and create with a clear mind can only benefit you, your audience, and your passion in the long run.
Remember: Your Voice Is Important
While the voice of doubt may be knocking at your door to tell you otherwise—your voice is important. It’s hard sometimes to feel this when you’re in a world full of a million social media influencers. But, think of it this way: None of those influencers are YOU. You bring something new and exciting to the table, whether you realize it or not. Your thoughts and experiences are unique to you and unique in the way that you share them with the world. You have purpose, you have drive, and the world is ready to receive it.
Think of everything you’ve gone through to get to this point. You’ve succeeded, in some way, shape, or form. You’re in a position to influence other people through the wonderful world of social media. And if you’re not in a place yet to influence, you can get there. With hard work, determination, and drive—nothing is impossible. Don’t let anything make you feel otherwise. Your words are meant to be heard and it’s time you start saying them, loud and proud.
Affirm Yourself
During moments of self-doubt and fear, reaffirm yourself. Take out a notebook and pen and start writing down all of your fears in the form of affirmations. Instead of writing down, I am afraid to share my personal experiences online in the fear of being judged, trying writing some of the following instead:
My experiences and stories mean something to someone.
I am capable of all things I put my mind to.
I don’t let the fear of judgment stop me from sharing my true passions with the world.
There is space for me to create and influence and I will allow myself to do so.
Or, try coming up with a few of your own.
By practicing words of affirmation daily, especially when you’re fearful, you will start to see those doubts diminish over time. By repeating these positive words to yourself, over time, your brain will start to believe them. You will start to see with a clearer mind and realize, hey, I’m right, I CAN do this!
It takes practice, but it is doable. And writing these down will only take a minute tops out of your twenty-four-hour day. It’s worth it.
Remind Yourself of The “Why”
When you feel yourself begin to doubt your abilities as an influencer, try and take yourself back to the “why” of it all. Why did you start influencing? What brought you to this point? What mistakes have you made that you can ultimately turn into lessons for others?
There’s a reason you began this journey: to influence. You wish you had YOU back when you started. You’ve discovered ways for others to avoid the mistakes you made.
You have to remember that no one does it like you. You’re a unique, one in a million, person. The words you have to say are important. Think of the people that you learned from. You get to be a stepping stone in someone’s journey.
It’s easy for doubt to creep in, it's an annoying little voice telling you that your time and effort isn’t worth it—but I’m here to tell you, it is. There’s a reason you’re influencing like-minded people. When doubt tries to sneak its way in, remind yourself of the “why”. Why did you start this journey? Why are you passionate about this? Create those “why’s” so you always have something to look back at, to bring you back down to earth.
Most importantly, remember that your feelings are valid and universal. There’s not a soul on this earth who hasn’t doubted themselves. But, imagine if we all let the doubt stop us from creating, from continuing. Who knows where the world would be. Just don’t let it stop you from doing what you’ve always been meant to do.
If you want to learn more about my fitness and business journey and how I can help you reach your goals, contact me!
