Self-doubt can lead to overeating because it provides a momentary feeling of stability and satisfaction.
When you doubt yourself, food is a sure thing.
Always there… whereas a person or job can feel transitory.
Food is neutral. It doesn’t talk back or judge you.
Learning to work through my self-doubt was key to healing my disordered behavior and stopping the cycle of overeating and undereating for good.
Today, I never overeat, and I never undereat.
I don’t use food to manage my emotions, but I thoroughly enjoy food.
I eat the food my body is asking for, the food I love, and I feel great in my body.
Today I’m sharing 5 ways to navigate self-doubt as it arises, so you can return to a neutral, self-loving place…
1. Journal it out.
What’s making you doubt yourself? What are you afraid of? What are you anxious about? What do you feel guilty about?
It might sound strange to journal on these “negative” topics, but giving them space to be, outside of your head, with no judgment, is incredibly liberating for most people.
Give it a try and see if a weight lifts.
2. Keep your promises to yourself.
Each time we betray ourselves, our self-doubt can increase.
It’s important to be realistic about your promises, but to follow through with them.
If you’re having trouble with this, take it small and slow.
3. Hype yourself up.
I have something called a “Hype File,” and I think Marie Forleo recommended this at some point, but it might’ve been someone else.
It’s a folder on my computer and phone with screenshots of compliments, client testimonials, and anything else that makes me feel great about myself.
When I’m having a moment of self-doubt, I swipe through to help restore my confidence.
4. Move your body.
It’s easy to forget how impactful movement is.
Going for a walk, run, or rolling out your yoga mat can move so much physical and emotional energy, I often feel like a new person afterward.
I shed heavy energy, elevate my vibe, and often have my best ideas during or after a workout.
If you’re not in a routine right now, take it small and slow – just commit to a 20-30 minute movement session, 3 times a week. Notice how it affects your confidence.
5. Talk to a friend.
I am an introvert. An outgoing introvert, but still very much an introvert. I love being with people when I have the space, but I recharge on my own.
That said, you won’t find me talking on the phone very often. But when I talk to a soul sister, the amount of love, support, and confidence I feel is unmatched.
Next time you’re experiencing self-doubt, pick up the phone and call someone who makes you feel amazing. If I can do it, you can too.
From a neutral, self-loving place, you don’t need to look to food to do a job it can never truly do.
When you’re in a space of neutrality, you’re less likely to look to food for a temporary sense of security.
You can hear what your body truly wants – what your intuition is asking for, rather than what your self-doubt is asking for.
Do you struggle with self-doubt? I’d love to hear your experience in the comments below.
Much love,
Lula