Challenging your negative thoughts: 3 tips for people of colour

​Mastering the art of managing/overcoming negative thoughts is crucial for everyone, but it holds unique significance for people of colour who are seeking success as entrepreneurs or leaders in their chosen field. The journey towards success is often paved with societal biases, systemic obstacles and internalised doubts. I know that for my own journey my internalised doubts, and the constant need to keep proving myself were often detrimental to my mental health and feelings of self-worth. Changing your inner critic into your inner cheerleader (changing your mindset) is a powerful tool to overcome the barriers before you. With this blog, I want to share three tips to help you change the negative thoughts and continue being a success. 

1. Recognise and reframe your inner voice 

​You can’t change your inner critic if you do not first recognise that it is there. Identify those thoughts and challenge them. That sounds easier than it really is, but let me give you an example. If you find yourself thinking, "I don't belong here," interrupt that thought and say to yourself, "I do belong here and my skills and dedication are needed here" This challenge helps you to view yourself through a lens that recognizes your strengths and achievements.  

2. Create your own daily affirmation(s)

Viewing yourself through a lens that recognises your strengths and achievements can also be done through daily positive affirmations. Positive affirmations are a transformative tool that can positively influence your mental health, and wellbeing. They felt silly to me at first, but that reminder makes a real difference.
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By focusing on your unique strengths, core values, and personal goals, daily affirmations encourage a positive self-perception and therefore help you overcome your negative thought patterns. For instance, beginning your day with the affirmation, "I am a capable and impactful leader," instils confidence and sets an uplifting tone for the day ahead. Write your affirmation based on your own skills, strengths and capabilities and start your day with that reminder of what makes you great. 

3. Cultivate a supportive network

​Particularly if you, like me, live or work in a context where you are a minority, creating a supportive network where you can share your experiences and receive support can be empowering. Find individuals who have navigated similar paths and can offer insights, encouragement, and advice. This network can provide a safe space to express vulnerabilities, share successes, and receive constructive feedback as well as help you to create a feeling of belonging and importantly, remind you that you are not alone in your challenges. 
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​Managing your negative thoughts is an essential skill for personal growth and success. By recognizing and reframing negative inner narratives, creating positive affirmations and developing a supportive network you can build resilience against the unique internal and external challenges you face as a person of colour seeking success as a leader and/or business owner.