New Leaves

In psychology, doubt is a state of uncertainty or lack of confidence about oneself, others, or truth of a belief or action.

A few weeks ago, I spoke with a woman who shared details about her work environment. The woman and her work colleagues recently spoke with higher management about her supervisor’s poor performance. Higher management brought the issues to the supervisor and the supervisor resigned the next day. The reason the situation changed so quickly was because she and her colleagues shared their grievances collectively, and it was effective in making management listen.

The side effect of upper management not taking action sooner was the woman began to doubt her abilities and questioned if she could work at all. Doubt can be powerful. It can fuel anxiety, lead to stagnation, and decrease a person’s sense of worth. Feeling doubtful may hinder an ability to make changes and can create a negative self-perception.

As I spoke with the woman, I reminded her focus on her successful times. I shared that she was more than one person’s opinion of her and that things would improve. I told her that I keep a box of notes and cards saved from former employees, families, and supervisors expressing gratitude for things I have done. When I have felt unsure, I read a few notes and cards to remind myself that my doubts were temporary, and hers would be too.

Today I received a card in the mail. It was from the woman I had spoken to. Her note expressed thanks for listening and supporting her a few weeks back. She shared that without the negative influence of her former supervisor; she’d become more confident and secure at work. She still had some lingering doubts, but they were fading. She realized her doubts may come up again, but they’re only her thoughts and thoughts can be changed. I added her note to my box to remind me of the same thing.