Self-doubt is widespread in nursing. Though self-doubt is a universal human experience, certain aspects of healthcare—and nursing specifically—make it more prevalent. Nurses often work in environments with limited recognition, support, or praise. In some cases, they endure criticism, discrimination, or bullying, or work in organisations that demand perfection and penalise even minor mistakes. These situations can lead to a spiral of self-doubt.

When we begin to doubt ourselves, a cycle unfolds: stress and anxiety increase, which narrows our thinking. We may fixate on worries and struggle to see solutions. As our world seems to close in, we lose sight of an important perspective: that we have faced many challenges before and are capable of overcoming this one, too. In fact, we may emerge even stronger. In these moments, self-doubt can feel like trying to navigate a foggy road where the landmarks we need are hidden, making everything appear more daunting.

For nurses, who routinely face high-stakes situations, this fog of self-doubt can sometimes cloud their confidence. Take Sarah, a nurse who outwardly appears confident and handles emergencies with poise, earning her team’s respect. Yet even Sarah experiences moments of inner turmoil, questioning her skills and feeling unsure. Despite her experience, self-doubt occasionally clouds her vision, leaving her feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and inadequate. So, what can Sarah do to restore her self-belief?

The following journaling exercise can help you clear this mental fog of self-doubt. By reflecting on past successes and focusing on your strengths, you can remind yourself of your resilience and face present challenges with renewed clarity and confidence.

Step 1: Reflect on the self-doubt you’re currently experiencing

Start by exploring the specific self-doubt you’re feeling right now. Describe what’s going on in your mind and how it’s affecting you.

• Prompt: What am I telling myself? What beliefs do I hold about my ability to handle this situation?
• Prompt: How does this ‘fog’ of self-doubt impact my thinking, emotions, and actions?

Step 2: Recall past challenges

Think back to a time when you successfully overcame a similar challenge. Reflect on how you felt at the time, what steps you took, and which strengths you used to work through it.

• Prompt: What was the challenge, and how did I initially feel about it?
• Prompt: What steps did I take to tackle the problem, and what strengths did I draw on?
• Prompt: In what ways was I resourceful, enlisting the help and support of others?

Step 3: Identify your strengths

Consider the qualities, skills, and values that have helped you in the past with similar challenges. Recognising these strengths can empower you to face new challenges with confidence.

• Prompt: What personal strengths and values helped me overcome past challenges?
• Prompt: How did these strengths make a difference in my approach or outcome?

Example strengths/values are:

Resilience – The ability to bounce back from setbacks and keep going

Compassion – Being kind to oneself and others, especially in difficult times

Adaptability – Flexibility in the face of change or unexpected circumstances

Patience – The capacity to take time and not rush solutions, giving things room to improve

Problem-solving skills – A focus on finding solutions and addressing challenges proactively

Integrity – Staying true to one’s values and principles, even when it’s hard

Optimism – Seeing the potential positive outcomes or lessons in a situation

Courage – Facing fears and uncertainties with a steady mind

Perseverance – Continuing efforts despite challenges or obstacles

Resourcefulness – The ability to creatively use available resources, knowledge, and skills to solve problems, especially in difficult situations where typical solutions may not work. Resourcefulness means thinking outside the box and finding alternative paths forward

Help seeking – Asking others for support (practical and emotional) when you need it

Step 4: Apply to a current challenge

Now, focus on the situation you’re currently facing. Reflect on how the strengths you’ve identified could help you manage this challenge.

• Prompt: How can I apply the strengths I identified to this current challenge?
• Prompt: What is one small, actionable step I could take right now to begin addressing it?

Step 5: Envision your success

Take a moment to visualise a positive outcome. Imagine using your strengths to overcome this challenge and how it would feel to gain clarity and confidence.

• Prompt: If I overcome this challenge, how will I feel?
• Prompt: What would this success reveal about my resilience and capability?

This journaling exercise helps clear the fog of self-doubt, reminding us of inner resources we all possess. Through reflection and intentional focus, we can cultivate confidence and navigate present challenges with a sense of empowerment.

Taking this further: The Empowered Nurse Toolkit

Did you enjoy this exercise and find it helpful?

This exercise is part of a module from my online programme, The Empowered Nurse Toolkit. In the full programme I teach nurses foundational tools to manage stress, enhance self-belief and rise to challenges at work. This is achieved through a mix of engaging video content and supplemental live group coaching.

Leaders: investing in your nurses’ wellbeing empowers them to thrive, builds resilience, and ultimately supports patient care. Reach out today to explore how The Empowered Nurse Toolkit can support your team’s journey to greater confidence and resilience.

Dr Nathan Illman is a Clinical Psychologist and Leadership Coach, and Founder of Nurse Wellbeing Mission.

You can contact Nathan on [email protected].

To find out more about Nurse Wellbeing Mission, head to www.nursewellbeingmission.com

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