When I was growing up I was always told to believe in myself, even if other people doubted me or my abilities. This is easier said than done, as I have spent a lot of my life doubting and discouraging myself. I oftentimes, put myself down and create reasons why I shouldn't do certain things or can't do this or that. It is a lot easier to lift up others and encourage them, but when it comes to me, I for whatever reason, forget to think about it or even choose not to. My mind constantly races with the what-if's of different scenarios in my life such as:

What if nobody likes what I've written?

What if the things I say sound strange to others?

What if I'm not good enough?

What if I can't do this?

All of these different what-ifs have made me hesitant to step out of my comfort zone. They have made me assume that everything I do will end up in failure rather than success, even though I know very well that I'm a capable individual. It’s as if my brain knows I am capable of doing certain things but my heart fears I can’t or am unable to do so.

I always tell my friends and family that I believe in them but am reluctant to tell myself the same thing. If anything, I would say to myself, “Let’s see how terrible this turns out.” I kept expectations of myself very low so that way I could only ever be impressed.

Over the years I've had great faith in those around me but little in myself. I've found, however, that it is important to believe in myself in order to be able to better believe in those around me. In times of self doubt, I have learned coping mechanisms which have helped me continue to have faith in myself.

I often times will turn to friends and family when I need encouragement. Also, I have learned to tell myself that I am capable of achieving anything I set my mind to. Whatever “it” may be, I can do it. Even though I may be scared of doing it, I know that I can do it. Also, I've learned that failure is just a part of life and that it doesn't determine my capabilities as an individual. As Thomas Edison once said, “I have not failed, I’ve just found ten thousand ways that won’t work.”

Even though it's been hard at times, I can honestly say that learning to believe in myself has been one of the best decisions I've made. Nobody wants to fail, lose or feel sub par. These feelings, however, should not stand in the way of chasing your dreams. It may be difficult to take a risk without knowing the outcome, but that's where believing in yourself comes into the picture. Especially in stressful situations it's easy to let self-doubt overshadow positivity. Life is about taking chances, taking risks, and believing that you are capable of achieving anything that you set your mind to.

At the end of the day you are capable of achieving anything you set your mind to. In times of strife it is important to remember the wise words of Theodore Roosevelt and to, "Believe you can and you're halfway there."