⚡️ Try This the Next Time Self-Doubt Hijacks Your Voice

A QUICK TIP TO STAY CALM UNDER PRESSURE

Feeling overwhelmed? Instead of saying “I can’t handle this,” say “This is tough, but I can take it one step at a time.”

🧠 Why it works: Gentle language boosts self-compassion and resilience.

👉 Use it: Mid-overwhelm.

🔍 DEEP DIVE

⚡️ Try This the Next Time Self-Doubt Hijacks Your Voice

You know that moment.

The one where you're about to speak, and suddenly,

“What if I mess this up?”

“What if they think I don’t know what I’m talking about?”

“I should already know this. Asking a question will make me look stupid.”

“Everyone else seems so much more confident than me.”

...and just like that, your voice disappears.

This is where self-doubt does its worst work — not in private, but in public, right when your voice is supposed to lead.

The worst part? You have something to say. But when your confidence crumbles, so does your clarity. And the opportunity to speak and make your contribution passes you by.

You don’t need to force confidence or fake it. But you do need a way to reset, something you can say to yourself that brings you back into your body, your voice and your inner strength.

Language is a Regulator

Saying something grounding — even silently — helps signal safety to the nervous system. That’s why short, steady phrases can bring you back online faster than logic ever will.

Here are 5 things to say when doubt hijacks your voice:

1. “I don’t have to prove anything at this moment.”

You’re not on trial. You’re not auditioning. You’re already in the room, and that means you’ve already earned your seat.

2. “I can take a breath before I speak.”

Pausing isn’t a weakness. It demonstrates presence. Slowing down reclaims your rhythm and reminds your nervous system you’re safe.

3. “I say what’s true, even when it’s hard.”

Confidence isn’t about volume. It’s about clarity. You don’t need to be louder; you need to trust that your voice already carries weight.

4. “Not knowing everything isn’t a failure. It’s leadership.”

You’re not here to have all the answers. You’re here to ask good questions, hold steady ground, and move things forward.

5. “Even if my voice shakes, it’s still worth hearing.”

Even when your voice shakes, you’re showing up. That is leadership. Courage is never wasted.

These are the kinds of phrases I return to — and my clients use — when their inner critic gets loud and their confidence gets shaky.

Save this. Screenshot it. Write your favourites on post-it notes and stick them on your monitor. Say the most relevant one to yourself next time your voice wants to disappear.

You don’t have to be fearless to speak with clarity.

You just need tools that bring you back to yourself.