You have heard it said often that “if you think you can or cannot, you’re right”. The language of self-limiting beliefs is rooted in all the things we tell ourselves, and eventually believe.
I’m not good enough, I can’t and I haven’t are some of the phrases that you should not allow to take root in your consciousness, much less say out loud. Trade any self-limiting thought for a positive one. Let your self-talk be littered with all the ways in which you have done well before, and can do well again because you are equipped with the talents, skills and capabilities. It may feel corny at first, but it works and helps in confidence building.
Growing up, we somehow got it into our psyche that creating a successful career had certain components: do what’s asked of you, don’t attract the wrong kind of attention and when promotion day comes round, your work will speak for itself. In the real world, though, while working hard and smart have their place, you must speak for and about your good work to the people who count. If you do not have a forum for regular visibility, then create one with your managers. Without bragging, let your supervisor know what value you have contributed to the organisation on a regular basis. This can be as simple as sending an email highlighting the success of the latest project and acknowledging the team’s support.
NEGOTIATE
Learn to ask for what you deserve for your skills and accomplishments. The worst thing you could do is sell yourself short; it follows that if every subsequent assignment or position is based on your last package you will be doing yourself a long term injustice. Get rid of the noise in your head that keeps telling you that you are being pushy or demanding. After all, the most successful people go after their dreams with a tenacity as big as life itself. Continue to believe and communicate that what you are asking for is not only what you deserve, but it is commensurate to the value you offer. Remember, you are your best cheerleader.