“Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will.”-Suzy Kassem (Brainyquote.org)
Today, I was teaching English to a classroom of English as Second Language students. These students are often riddled with self-doubt about communicating in English. They share with me their reasons for wanting to learn English. Their dreams are as diverse as they are. The desire to reach dreams/personal goals is a universal desire that springs from the depths of the human spirit.
One particular student this morning really got me to thinking about the negative, soul-crushing impact of self-doubt. She was so afraid that she couldn’t complete the activity sheet that she just sat at her desk and stared at it, lost. I sat next to her and asked her quietly to just simply do as best she could, that it was okay if she didn’t know everything, that she should at least give it a try. Well, she mustered up the courage and ended up shocking herself when she completed the activity sheet and scored high on it. The expression on her face was one of joy and surprise. I could see her confidence build as she realized that by trying she had succeeded. If she had not challenged herself and moved through her self-doubt she would never have known that she was capable of success.
Yes, doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will because if you are riddled with self-doubt you simply are too afraid to try.
Whatever my student’s personal dreams are, hopefully her experience today in my classroom will serve as a reminder that by moving past self-doubt and taking a chance she can succeed if she perseveres.
Whatever your dreams are, do not give into self-doubt. Of course, we all fail from time to time, but never stop trying to move forward. Life is a journey. Be hopeful, be confident, persevere. God is with you; you cannot fail. You can learn and move forward. Always move forward.
Blessings to all.
Jenny W. Andrews Copyright 2020
Jenny Grace's Poetry and Creative Writing Techniques 
Touching piece! I was placed in ESL classes for most of my childhood. I understand that doubt all too well. It was great to have teachers who cared to see your growth and celebrate your accomplishments.
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Thank you so much for reading my post. Teachers can make such an impact, either for the worst or for the best. As a teacher, I remind myself each time I look at a student that my words matter. I choose to lift them up rather than tear them down. It has a lasting consequence even if I don’t see it.
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