Taking the Leap: The Confidence Conundrum Women Face and How to Overcome It

Did you know that there's a fascinating phenomenon that many women experience when it comes to pursuing their passions or applying for jobs? It's a fact that, on average, women feel the need to have every single piece of the puzzle in place and possess comprehensive knowledge before diving into what they love. This isn't just a mere observation but is backed by intriguing statistics and insights.

You might have come across the statistic that when men see a job listing, they'll confidently apply if they meet just 60% of the qualifications. In stark contrast, women will typically only apply if they tick off a whopping 100% of the listed criteria. At first glance, this might seem like a confidence issue, but delve a little deeper, and you'll discover it's more nuanced than that.

The real surprise? It's not that women doubt their capabilities or fear they won't excel in the role. Instead, the primary reason is rooted in a desire not to expend precious time and energy on an endeavour that might not come to fruition. There's also a genuine concern about putting oneself out there, especially if there's a chance of failure.

But why is this the case? Why do women feel this overwhelming need to be absolutely certain before taking a step forward? Are they lacking confidence?

The Underlying Factors

Cultural Conditioning: From a young age, many women are conditioned to strive for perfection. Whether it's in academics, appearance, or behaviour, there's a societal pressure to get everything 'just right'. This mindset can carry into adulthood, influencing decisions and actions.

Fear of Wasting Time: Women, often juggling multiple roles and responsibilities, are acutely aware of the value of their time. The thought of investing in something uncertain can be daunting.

Avoiding Potential Failure: No one likes to fail. But for many women, the fear of failure is intertwined with a fear of judgement or criticism. It's not just about personal disappointment but also about how others might perceive them.

Embracing the Doula Spirit

Now, you might wonder, "What does this have to do with a doula course?" Well, the journey of a doula is all about support, empowerment, and guiding new mothers through one of the most transformative experiences of their lives. It's about embracing uncertainty with grace and confidence.

If you've ever considered enrolling in a doula course, but hesitated because you're waiting for the 'perfect' moment or feel you need to know everything beforehand, remember the essence of being a doula. It's about growth, learning, and adapting. No doula knows everything from day one; it's a journey of continuous learning and experience.

Taking the Plunge with Confidence

So, how can women shift this mindset and start embracing opportunities, even if there's a hint of uncertainty?

1. Reframe Failure: Instead of viewing failure as a negative outcome, see it as a learning opportunity. Every setback offers a lesson that can pave the way for future success.

2. Trust in Your Abilities: Believe in your skills, experiences, and intuition. You've overcome challenges before, and you can do it again.

3. Seek Support: Whether it's friends, family, or professional networks, surround yourself with people who uplift and encourage you. Consider joining a doula community or forum where you can share experiences and gain insights.

4. Take Small Steps: If the idea of a full-fledged doula course seems daunting, start with a short workshop or seminar. Dip your toes in, feel the waters, and then dive in when you're ready.

In conclusion, while it's natural for women to seek certainty and assurance, it's essential to recognise when this tendency holds us back from pursuing our passions. Whether it's a career move, a new hobby, or a doula course, remember that growth often lies just outside our comfort zones. Embrace the journey, cherish the learning, and take that leap with confidence.

Interested in exploring the world of doulas? Dive into our comprehensive doula course and embark on a transformative journey.