A while back, I published a guide on fixing the skinny fat look. The majority of comments and emails I received were positive and hopeful. However, there were those emails from people who were determined that the information I shared wouldn’t work for them.

They didn’t doubt the validity of the information as much as they questioned their ability to use it to their advantage. Excuses such as, “I’m too busy.”, “I have the worst genetics.” and “My body can’t tolerate dieting. I’m just too hungry all the time.” were the main objections.

I did my best to help these people and assure them their excuses are just that - excuses. Some began to agree with me, others never wrote back, and a few believed they are screwed, no matter what. The common trend among these replies was self-doubt. Despite the various responses, each email came from the same place - “I don’t believe in myself.”

We all write narratives in our minds about who we feel we are, what we think we are capable of, and why we are where we are. But it’s important what these narratives are. If we don’t believe in ourselves and our abilities, we are limited no matter our circumstances, genetic potential, and opportunities.

What I’ve come to understand over the years is that the biggest difference between those who succeed and those who fail (be it with fitness, finances, health, or something else) doesn’t have that much to do with luck, intelligence, opportunities, or resources. Instead, it has to do with the beliefs they hold and how they approach challenges.

Successful people believe in themselves and are determined to find a solution to each obstacle. Unsuccessful people find an obstacle for every solution and would rather play the victim in life.

You have to be willing to believe in your abilities and trust that you can make a lasting change with enough hard work and consistency. Sure, we all experience moments of self-doubt and uncertainty. And each of us fails from time to time. But we have to trust that we’ll make it work and reach our goals if we keep pushing forward.

When I first started going to the gym, I knew nothing about proper training, nutrition, or fat loss. But I trusted that I’d figure it out. When I later took up my first client at the local gym, I didn’t know much about coaching. But I trusted that I’d find a way to make it work. When I started this blog, I had no idea how the whole thing worked. But, again, I trusted that I’d figure it out.

I believed in myself and my ability to figure it out. It has worked for me time and time again and has contributed significantly to where I am today—not starting capital, luck, or friends in high places. A simple belief in myself.

Do you believe in yourself?

Philip

P.S. You can read more of my thoughts on self-belief here.

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