Practiced Doubt:
The following is an excerpt from an article submitted by Jennifer Elliott – a colleague and friend – who permitted me to add this valuable information.
Thank you, Jen.
Doubt! It’s a lesson children learn from the cautions their parents give. “Don’t fall.” “Watch your step.” “Behave.” Even “ Don’t set your expectations too high.” Or “That’s just not possible for our family.” Early on we receive messages that cause us to doubt our abilities and even doubt that we deserve good things. Our parents and others let us know that they do not assume that we will perform at our best and they prepare us to expect disappointment. They doubt us and so we doubt ourselves.
Many people make analyzing a career. Their skills, highly valued in our society, are to look for the problems and risks. To so many of us, perhaps all of us, doubt is a habit. We practice it daily “What if?” “What if I lose my great job?” “What if our loves doesn’t last?” “What if during my birth I feel pressured by my caregivers?”
Being disappointed? Comparing yourself to someone else? Feeling on guard? Or denying yourself because you feel undeserving?
This practiced doubt may interfere with the positive feels and the trust that you want to bring to your birth. You may be looking for signs in your birthing experience that suggest that you are not progressing. You may find yourself looking for hospital staff that are unhelpful and unsupportive.
Your birth is not the time for doubt. Start now letting go of this habit....replace the negative ‘what ifs’ with positive possibilities.
Visualize the birth you want. Envision the perfection of your body, the health of your baby, the awe and support of those around you, the comfort of your surroundings, the beauty of this miracle. Leave no room for doubt.
Practice positive thinking. Experience the peace and optimism that fills you. Watch the wonderful results in every aspect of your life. |
