Understanding Inner Doubts

It's common to feel uncertain about someone's reliability, especially when you need to collaborate with them. This uncertainty can lead to anxiety and stress. How do you navigate these feelings? Recently, I faced a similar situation.

My car insurance was set to expire in June, prompting me to reach out to Lewis, the broker who had assisted me the previous year. When I called, I was informed that Lewis no longer worked there, and the representative seemed disinterested in my concerns.

I decided to contact Lewis directly using the number he had provided. To my relief, he was eager to help me renew my policy. He prepared the contract, and all that remained was for me to sign and make the payment.

Upon asking to meet for the paperwork, Lewis informed me that he worked from home and lived far away, which made me uneasy.

The insurance premiums had risen significantly, especially since my son had just gotten his driver's license. This raised doubts in my mind: How could I trust a stranger with such a large sum? Why was he reluctant to meet? Was he truly the same Lewis I had met before?

A whirlwind of thoughts created a sense of discomfort, pushing me toward uncertainty. Eventually, I decided to express my concerns directly to Lewis, regardless of how he might react.

To my surprise, Lewis was understanding and assured me that as a licensed broker, any misuse of my information could lead to serious consequences for him. He suggested I contact his company to confirm his identity.

After I called his workplace, my worries were alleviated, and the process moved forward smoothly.

Strategies for Managing Doubts

This experience has imparted valuable lessons on handling inner fears and uncertainties when faced with unexpected situations.

1. Acknowledge Negative Feelings

   When overwhelmed with anxiety, I refrained from assigning blame to myself or others. Instead, I took time to engage with my negative emotions, treating them as I would my children—this reflective approach allowed me to calm down and understand what I truly wanted.

2. Communicate Openly About Concerns

   Honesty is generally appreciated, even if it might upset someone. By expressing my doubts, I could gain further insights into the person I was dealing with. If Lewis had reacted negatively, I would have been prepared to seek out another broker.

3. Don't Hesitate to Verify Important Information

   Though it can be uncomfortable to show distrust, especially with strangers, I realized that when significant matters such as money are involved, verifying information is essential. After all, I bear the consequences if something goes wrong.

While these steps may seem familiar, putting them into practice can be challenging. However, it's never too late to start.

Thank you for reading! How do you handle your inner doubts and concerns during conflicts? I look forward to your thoughts.

Consider joining Medium for just $5/month to explore countless stories and share your own! Click here to support my work and subscribe for updates.

Chapter 1: Overcoming Fear of Conflict

Facing confrontations can be daunting. Understanding how to manage this fear is crucial.

The video titled "This is How to Conquer Your Fear of Conflict" offers insights on overcoming these feelings and engaging in difficult discussions.

Chapter 2: Confrontation Anxiety Explained

Learning to cope with confrontation anxiety is essential for personal growth.

The video "HOW TO OVERCOME FEAR OF CONFRONTATION | Confrontation Anxiety Explained" delves into practical strategies for tackling this common issue.