In her empowering book, Trust Yourself, Melody J. Wilding, a professor of human behaviour at Hunter College and recently named one of Insider’s “most innovative career coaches,” takes readers on a transformative journey toward embracing their emotions and channeling them for personal and professional success. For anyone who has struggled with overthinking, self-doubt, or emotional overwhelm, this book is a guide to breaking free from these constraints and stepping into a space of self-trust and empowerment.
Wilding focuses on what she calls “sensitive strivers” – people who are both deeply empathetic and highly driven. These individuals often find themselves caught in a cycle of overthinking, struggling to find the balance between sensitivity and strength. Wilding’s wisdom lies in her ability to reframe sensitivity as a strength rather than a weakness, offering tools to harness emotional intelligence as a powerful asset.
One of the most inspiring aspects of Trust Yourself is Wilding’s ability to present practical strategies to stop overthinking and take action. For example, she talks about the power of small wins – simple actions that build momentum and create confidence. Imagine you are stuck in the cycle of perfectionism, constantly feeling like nothing you do is enough. Wilding suggests breaking down large tasks into smaller, manageable steps, allowing you to celebrate every milestone. Over time, this builds not only your confidence but also your ability to trust in your own capabilities.
She also shares real-life stories of clients who have overcome similar struggles. One story that stands out is of a woman who was always the “go-to” person at work, putting others’ needs above her own. Her overthinking and need to please others left her feeling drained and under-appreciated. Through Wilding’s techniques, she learned to set healthy boundaries, trust her instincts, and say no when necessary. The result? Her career flourished, and so did her sense of self-worth.
Wilding’s focus on practical, actionable steps is refreshing. Her approach is not about suppressing emotions but about understanding and leveraging them. She provides exercises like “emotion labeling” and “thought reframing,” which help readers manage their inner critic and stop the spiral of negative thoughts. It’s a reminder that emotional intelligence isn’t just about managing others’ emotions – it’s about recognizing and respecting our own as well.
Another highlight of the book is the focus on aligning your career with your values. Wilding encourages readers to dig deep and reflect on what truly matters to them. She points out that sensitivity, empathy, and introspection can be tremendous assets in leadership and decision-making roles. For instance, an empathetic manager who listens to their team can inspire loyalty and innovation in ways that a more transactional leader might not.
Trust Yourself is more than just a book on overcoming overthinking – it’s a roadmap for thriving in a world that often tells us to “toughen up.” It invites readers to embrace who they are fully and unapologetically. Wilding’s compassionate voice and actionable insights make this book a must-read for anyone who wants to step into their full potential without sacrificing their true self.
If you’ve ever doubted your own capabilities or struggled to silence the voice of self-criticism, Trust Yourself offers the tools to transform your mindset. Wilding reminds us that success doesn’t come from being someone else – it comes from trusting yourself, embracing your emotions, and confidently moving forward.
Contributed by Agolo Eugene Uzorka
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