When Self-Doubt Creeps In: Belief is Your Real Job Title

By Lynnecia S. Eley | The Confidence Doula™

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I’ll let you in on a bit about me: according to Gallup’s StrengthsFinder, my #1 strength is Belief. And trust me, that wasn’t a surprise. Before I was ever a coach or author, I was a woman who led with conviction (of course, with big emotions), which often can be mislabeled as stubbornness, especially in professional settings.

Belief, for me, is more than faith; it's the self-assurance that guides me when I show up in spaces. It’s knowing that, even when self-doubt whispers (or shouts), my internal compass can reset to steady.

And yet, here’s the thing: even for those of us who live and breathe belief, self-doubt still creeps in. It shows up when we’re about to pitch a big idea, when we’re managing a team that’s looking to us for direction, or when we’re standing at the edge of something new — be it a promotion, a business launch, or a tough conversation. Belief isn’t just good to have; it’s required.

As a professional, belief is your hidden job title. It’s the invisible thread that passes through every decision, every “yes,” and every “no.” Without it, we rely too much on external validation, approval from the room, or hoping someone else will nod in agreement and green-light our ideas.

And here’s the plot twist: belief and self-assurance don’t just show up; for some, it may take sweat and tears to build.

That’s where the BIRTH framework I created comes in.

✔ Belief is the foundation. It’s how we ground ourselves before we even open our mouths.

✔ Inspiration reminds us that someone has been where we are—and they made it through.

✔ Resilience keeps us on track when feedback stings or when the path forward looks a little bumpy.

✔ Tenacity is what gets us to show up again tomorrow, even when today feels like a mess.

✔ Habits are how we welcome belief into our day-to-day life.

Belief isn’t a one-time decision. It’s the discipline to choose yourself every day, especially when others don’t.

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What Belief Looks Like in Action

Imagine a manager is tasked with leading a new cross-departmental project, but half the team doesn’t directly report to them. Without formal authority, many leaders shrink or tread lightly. But those who lead with belief—in their ability to influence, in the project’s purpose, and in their presence—create momentum.

By setting expectations, inspiring buy-in, and trusting their voice even in uncharted territory, they create alignment and success despite lacking “official” power.

“Belief turns managers into leaders—titles don’t.” #Lynnism

Belief Tip of the Week:

Before stepping into any situation this week—whether it’s a tough conversation, a pitch, or a decision—pause and ask yourself:

“If I were leading from self-assurance, what would my next step be?”

Let that answer push you through your next move. Bold women are born in quiet moments when they choose self-trust over hesitation.