I can pinpoint several moments when that nasty little seed of self-doubt first took root. That job interview I was so sure I aced, only to receive the polite rejection email. The elaborate cake I attempted for Xavy’s birthday that ended up looking like a leaning tower of frosting. That expensive certification I studied tirelessly for, only to see the dreaded “Fail” on the screen.

Each of those moments chipped away at my confidence. It’s valid, right? To question your capabilities when you stumble. It’s easy to let those failures define you, to let the “I’m not good enough” mantra become your inner soundtrack.

But here’s what I’m learning (slowly but surely): failure is information. That interview that didn’t pan out? Maybe the role wasn’t the right fit, or maybe I needed to brush up on certain skills. That cake disaster? Well, now I know not to trust Pinterest recipes that look too good to be true. And that failed certification? It highlighted areas where I needed more understanding.

It’s okay to doubt yourself after a setback. Take a breath. Feel the disappointment. But don’t let it fester. Analyze what happened, identify areas for improvement, and then, when you’re ready, try again. You don’t have to jump back in immediately. Give yourself grace. Chill for a bit. Talk to a friend (thanks for always listening, you know who you are!). And then, when the time feels right, dust yourself off and give it another shot. We’ve got this, right?