---
title: "Self-Trust: the Quiet Power that Gives You The Courage to Dream Big"
description: "In the vast landscape of life, there is a paramount force that often goes unnoticed, a force that is the guiding compass of our journey, the foundation upon which we build our dreams and aspirations: the art of self-trust. Self-trust is the quiet whisper of your soul that reassures you of your own strength, the […]"
author: Dr Marina Nani (Editor-in-Chief)
date: 2023-05-08T11:48:58.000Z
updated: 2026-04-01T12:27:36.528Z
canonical: https://richwoman.co/article/self-trust-the-quiet-power-that-gives-you-the-courage-to-dream-big
image: https://cdn.nanimediahouse.com/lkn6tron0_0.jpg
categories: Lifestyle
content_type: Opinion
region: Global
publication: Rich Woman Magazine
---

In the vast landscape of life, there is a paramount force that often goes unnoticed, a force that is the guiding compass of our journey, the foundation upon which we build our dreams and aspirations: the art of self-trust.[ Self-trust is the quiet whisper of your soul ](https://richwoman.co/article/the-crisis-of-self-trust-understanding-the-science-behind-your-inner-light)that reassures you of your own strength, the gentle nudge that encourages you to take a leap of faith, the steadfast anchor in the midst of life’s tempestuous storms. It is the essence of who we are, and in trusting ourselves, we can unlock our inner potential and soar to unimaginable heights.

By looking back at the goals we set for ourselves ten, twenty, or even just three years ago, we gain valuable insights into our evolution as individuals. In this article, we’ll explore the detrimental effects of[ external validation](https://richwoman.co/article/understanding-external-validation-psychology-why-we-seek-approval-from-others) on self-confidence and the power of self-comparison in finding the courage you need to dream big.

## Table of Contents

[Remember what  was your dream 3 years ago? ](#remember-what-was-your-dream-3-years-ago)[External validation: a trap for self-confidence](#external-validation-a-trap-for-self-confidence)[The benefits to remembering how far you came](#the-benefits-to-remembering-how-far-you-came)[How do you bounce back after setbacks and self-doubt?](#how-do-you-bounce-back-after-setbacks-and-self-doubt)

## Remember what  was your dream 3 years ago?

It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing ourselves to others. [Social media ](https://richwoman.co/article/the-role-of-self-awareness-and-self-love-in-protecting-your-safety-on-social-media)platforms provide us with an endless stream of success stories, perfectly curated photos, and seemingly flawless lives. Inevitably, these comparisons can erode our [self-confidence ](https://richwoman.co/article/feeling-inadequate-there-is-a-science-behind-lack-of-confidence)and undermine our sense of personal worth.

But there’s a different way to evaluate our progress that can lead to a more accurate understanding of our personal growth: reflecting on our past [dreams](https://richwoman.co/article/dreams-the-subconscious-manifestation-and-the-hidden-power-of-the-mind) and aspirations.

### External validation: a trap for self-confidence

Research has consistently shown that seeking[ external validation can have adverse effects on our mental health and self-esteem](https://psychcentral.com/blog/psychology-self/2017/08/validation-self-esteem#1). In a study conducted by Fardouly (2015), it was found that frequent social media use led to increased social comparison and decreased self-esteem in [young](https://richwoman.co/article/the-secret-to-staying-young-and-vibrant) adults. Another study by Vogel. (2014) demonstrated that [people](https://richwoman.co/article/new-mortgage-solutions-to-help-people-going-on-the-property-ladder) who engaged in more social comparisons on Facebook had lower self-esteem and higher levels of envy.

The impact of these comparisons on self-confidence is far-reaching. In a 2017 study by Kross, it was discovered that individuals who compared themselves to others experienced higher levels of depressive symptoms and reduced [life satisfaction](https://richwoman.co/article/where-do-you-find-satisfaction-in-everyday-life). These detrimental effects occur because external validation can foster a distorted view of our accomplishments, leading us to undervalue our achievements and overlook our personal growth.

Instead of focusing on others’ accomplishments, we can redirect our [attention](https://richwoman.co/article/what-anchors-your-attention-in-an-abundance-of-information) towards our past dreams and aspirations. By doing so, we create a more accurate and meaningful framework for evaluating our personal evolution.

### The benefits to remembering how far you came

Greater self-awareness: Reflecting on past dreams can increase [self-awareness](https://www.neverendingbookseries.com/store/be-you-destiny-course-correction/) by helping us recognize the growth and development we’ve undergone over the years. This increased understanding of our capabilities and potential can lead to improved self-confidence.

**Clarification of values:** Assessing our previous aspirations helps us re-evaluate our priorities and values, allowing for a deeper understanding of what truly matters to us.

**Enhanced motivation: **Recognizing the [progress we’ve made towards our past dreams](https://richwoman.co/article/is-the-road-to-your-dream-life-a-work-in-progress) can rekindle our motivation to continue pursuing personal growth and self-improvement.

**Appreciation of personal evolution: **By reflecting on our past aspirations, we can gain a clearer understanding of our [journey](https://richwoman.co/article/why-we-grieve-differently-and-your-grief-journey-is-unique), celebrating the achievements and milestones we’ve reached along the way.

Seeking external validation and comparing ourselves to others can negatively impact our self-confidence, causing us to overlook our personal growth and undervalue our accomplishments. However, by reflecting on our past dreams and aspirations, we create a more accurate and meaningful framework for evaluating our personal evolution.

By focusing on our journey and recognizing the progress we’ve made, we can foster greater self-confidence, enhance our motivation, and embrace a deeper understanding of our personal growth. So, take a moment to look back at your dreams from three years ago – you may be pleasantly surprised by how far you’ve come.

## How do you bounce back after setbacks and self-doubt?

It takes courage to [bounce back](https://richwoman.co/article/what-it-means-to-be-resilient-and-bounce-back-stronger-than-ever) after a major setback. But the question remains, how do you [regain trust in yourself, ](https://richwoman.co/article/the-crisis-of-self-trust-understanding-the-science-behind-your-inner-light)especially after struggles or moments of[ self-doubt](https://richwoman.co/article/embracing-self-acceptance-to-break-free-from-the-chains-of-self-doubt)? The path to self-trust is a journey, a beautiful tapestry woven with threads of self-awareness, self-love, and [self-compassion](https://richwoman.co/article/defeating-adversity-with-self-compassion-and-gratitude). In this quest for self-trust, it is essential to delve deep within our [hearts and minds](https://richwoman.co/article/inspired-by-rumi-hearts-and-minds-connect-to-build-a-better-society-during-ramadan-2020), to unearth the roots of our insecurities, to face the shadows that cast doubt upon our abilities.

We all have times in our lives when we ask ourselves [how to be happier ](https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/self-help/tips-and-support/how-to-be-happier/) but we rarely think of learning to be kind to ourselves. Often, we can be our own harshest critics, but it is important to remember that we are all human, and we all make mistakes. Embrace the imperfections and use them as [stepping](https://richwoman.co/article/8-easy-steps-to-win-chaos-and-enjoy-harmony-in-my-happy-home-during-quarantine-times-and-beyo) stones towards growth and self-improvement. Acknowledge your past achievements, no matter how small they may seem, and [celebrate the victories that you](https://richwoman.co/article/what-are-you-celebrating-today) have already achieved.

In rediscovering self-trust, it is crucial to cultivate [self-awareness](https://www.neverendingbookseries.com/store/be-you-destiny-course-correction/). By understanding our own needs, desires, and boundaries, we can make [decisions](https://richwoman.co/article/making-decisions-while-grieving) that align with our values and nourish our souls. Embrace your intuition, for it is a [powerful](https://richwoman.co/article/8-steps-into-the-healing-powers-of-writing) tool that can guide you in your decision-making process. Trust that you have the wisdom and the [courage](https://richwoman.co/article/where-to-find-the-courage-to-question-self-doubt-and-break-free) to make the right choices for yourself, even when the path ahead may be unclear.

Surround yourself with people who uplift and [inspire](https://richwoman.co/article/the-grand-station-of-inspiration-038-the-science-driving-your-train-of-thoughts) you, those who believe in your abilities and cheer you on as you strive to achieve your dreams. Such companions not only provide comfort and encouragement but also serve as a reflection of our own [self-worth](https://richwoman.co/article/embracing-self-worth-038-the-neuroscience-of-feeling-good-enough). Remember that the company we keep has a profound impact on our own self-trust.

Self-trust is an ongoing process, but with each [step](https://richwoman.co/article/what-step-can-you-take-today-to-move-closer-to-your-big-dream) forward, we grow stronger, more confident, and more in tune with our true selves. In the grand symphony of life, self-trust is the melody that resonates within our hearts, the song that weaves together the fabric of [our dreams and aspirations](https://www.successconsciousness.com/blog/success/dreams-courage-to-pursue/#). So trust yourself, my friends, for you hold the keys to the kingdom within, and by doing so, you will unlock the doors to an extraordinary life full of [purpose](https://richwoman.co/article/managing-happiness-the-science-behind-connection-and-purpose), passion, and possibility.

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