Have you ever caught yourself thinking, “I don’t trust myself” – especially when you’re facing a big decision or a period of change?

You’re not alone. As a career and mental health coach, I hear this from professionals all the time. In high-stakes situations or seasons of uncertainty, self-doubt can creep in, making it hard to trust your own instincts or decisions.

But here’s the truth: self-trust is a crucial skill for personal and professional growth, and it’s something you can strengthen over time.

Why Do We Struggle to Trust Ourselves?

There are a few common reasons why building self-trust feels so hard, particularly in your career or during life transitions:

1. Past Mistakes
Mistakes, especially ones that feel significant, can cause you to question your judgement. But mistakes are not proof that you’re incapable. They’re part of the learning process, helping you refine your decision-making skills.

2. Perfectionism
If you’re waiting for the “perfect” time, plan, or answer, you may find yourself paralysed by indecision. Perfectionism undermines self-trust by convincing you that anything short of flawless isn’t good enough.

3. Fear of Disappointment
When you’re afraid of letting yourself or others down, it becomes safer to stay stuck than to move forward. This fear can chip away at your confidence to act.

4. External Influence
Advice, opinions, and pressure from others can cloud your inner voice. When you start relying more on outside input than your own instincts, your self-trust suffers.

Why Self-Trust Matters in Career and Life

Self-trust is foundational in career growth, navigating transitions, making confident choices, and setting meaningful goals. When you trust yourself, you’re better able to make decisions that align with your values and long-term vision.

You are your best guide. The wisdom, clarity, and courage you need are already within you – you just need to reconnect with them.

How to Rebuild Trust in Yourself

The good news? Self-trust is built through small, intentional actions. Every time you follow through on something you said you’d do, you reinforce the belief that you can rely on yourself.

Here are five practical ways to start:

1. Reflect on Your Wins
Look back on decisions you’ve made that worked out well. These are reminders that you are capable and resourceful.

2. Embrace Imperfection
Let go of the pressure to always get it right. Taking action, even imperfectly, builds momentum and confidence.

3. Listen to Your Intuition
Your gut feeling is a powerful tool. Start noticing when it speaks up, and give yourself permission to listen.

4. Practice Self-Compassion
When doubt or disappointment arises, speak to yourself kindly. Self-trust grows in a climate of self-respect, not self-criticism.

5. Keep Small Promises
Start simple: wake up 10 minutes earlier, drink more water, or stick to one thing on your to-do list. Each time you follow through, you’re casting a vote for being someone you can count on.

Final Thought: Start Small, Grow Steady

Rebuilding self-trust doesn’t require massive leaps. It starts with tiny, consistent steps.

So, what’s one small promise you can make to yourself today?
Start there. You’re more capable than you think.