Courage & Clarity Podcast Episode 116: The #1 Objection in 2025: “I Don’t Think I Can Do It”
Host: Steph Crowder
Release Date: January 24, 2025
Description: Insights into overcoming the most prevalent objection in today's entrepreneurial landscape—self-doubt. Steph Crowder delves deep into understanding, reframing, and tackling the pervasive belief that “I don’t think I can do it,” providing actionable strategies for female entrepreneurs to build confidence and achieve their business goals.
Introduction
In Episode 116 of the Courage & Clarity podcast, host Steph Crowder addresses the most significant objection entrepreneurs are encountering in 2025: “I don’t think I can do it.” Drawing from her extensive experience as a former sales training director and current coach, Steph explores the roots of this objection, its various manifestations, and effective tactics to overcome it.
Understanding the Objection: “I Don’t Think I Can Do It”
Steph begins by identifying the core of the objection, emphasizing that it stems from self-doubt. This sentiment is pervasive across all niches and industries, affecting individuals regardless of their expertise or the value they offer.
Notable Quote:
“I believe the biggest thing holding customers back in 2025 is self doubt.”
— Steph Crowder [04:38]
She highlights that often, when prospects present this objection, they're not questioning the value or expertise of the coach or mentor but are battling their own insecurities and lack of belief in their abilities.
Example of Objection Manifestations:
- “You’re great, Steph, but I’m not sure I can succeed.”
- “It’s not you, it’s me.”
- “I’ve tried before, and nothing worked.”
Steph explains that these variations all circle back to the same underlying issue: the prospect's lack of confidence in their ability to achieve the desired outcomes, not a reflection of the coach’s capability.
Why is This Objection Prevalent Now?
Steph posits that the rise of readily available information through AI, Google, and social media has paradoxically increased self-doubt among entrepreneurs. With an abundance of free resources, the perceived gap between one’s current state and their aspirations has widened, fostering feelings of inadequacy.
Notable Quote:
“All the information in the world will not help you stop doubting yourself.”
— Steph Crowder [10:29]
She criticizes the outdated strategy of "info dumping," where entrepreneurs inundate prospects with free content in hopes of demonstrating value. Instead, she advocates for belief building—fostering confidence and creating a sense of possibility within prospects.
Shifting from Information Dumping to Belief Building
Steph introduces a transformative approach to overcoming self-doubt by shifting focus from merely providing information to building belief.
Key Strategies:
-
Share Micro Wins:
Instead of showcasing grand successes, share small, relatable victories that prospects can see themselves achieving.
Example Quote:“Jane landed her first paying client after a single call.”
— Steph Crowder [28:37] -
Offer Safe Spaces to Test and Try:
Create environments where prospects can take small steps without fear of failure, such as bite-sized challenges or workshops.
Example Quote:“Offer safe spaces to test and try.”
— Steph Crowder [31:14] -
Utilize the Window of Possibility Concept:
Encourage prospects to envision a future where they have overcome their doubts and achieved success through your guidance.
Example Quote:“Cracking open the window of possibility.”
— Steph Crowder [31:14] -
Foster Willingness:
Emphasize the importance of taking the first step, as action breeds clarity and builds confidence.
Example Quote:“Clarity comes from action.”
— Steph Crowder [33:04] -
Reverse Engineer Success:
Help prospects visualize their success by breaking down their goals into achievable steps, making the path forward less intimidating.
Example Quote:“If somebody's like, I just need to make my investment back… Let's do the math.”
— Steph Crowder [35:20]
Practical Ways to Address “I Don’t Think I Can Do It”
Steph provides actionable tactics to help entrepreneurs effectively counteract this objection:
-
Replace Confidence with Belief:
Shift the narrative from merely providing strategies to instilling confidence.
Notable Insight:- Confidence is the new currency in sales conversations. When prospects gain confidence in their abilities, they are more likely to invest in your offerings.
-
Reduce Information Overload:
Avoid overwhelming prospects with excessive content. Instead, deliver concise, impactful information that empowers them to take manageable steps toward their goals. -
Leverage Specificity in Testimonials:
Use detailed, specific success stories rather than vague accolades to make accomplishments more relatable and attainable.
Example Quote:“Jane landed her first paying client after a single call” is more effective than “Jane made 500k in my program.”
— Steph Crowder [29:11] -
Create Contrast with Previous Experiences:
Differentiate your program from past unsuccessful attempts by highlighting how your approach fosters belief and incremental progress rather than just more information. -
Encourage Fast Forward Thinking:
Guide prospects to envision their future success by addressing what would make their investment worthwhile, thereby shifting focus from fear to potential gain.
Example Quote:“What would you have to be able to say to be like, I’m glad I did that?”
— Steph Crowder [34:19]
Conclusion: Embracing Confidence and Clarity
Steph wraps up the episode by reinforcing the normalcy of encountering self-doubt and emphasizing the importance of addressing it head-on. By fostering belief rather than just delivering information, entrepreneurs can bridge the gap between where their prospects are and where they aspire to be.
Final Insights:
- Overcoming objections like “I don’t think I can do it” is crucial for sustainable business growth.
- Building a coaching environment that prioritizes belief and small, achievable steps can effectively dismantle self-doubt.
- Confidence, more than information, serves as the key to unlocking a prospect’s potential.
Notable Quote:
“Your clients are simply missing that last spark of belief. If you provide that spark or help them find that spark within themselves, you’re on the path to truly helping them and creating the clients that you’re ready to have this year and beyond.”
— Steph Crowder [37:03]
Steph encourages listeners to adopt these strategies to not only overcome objections but also to cultivate a supportive and empowering space for their clients, ultimately leading to meaningful transformation and business success.
Connect with Steph Crowder:
For more insights and to join upcoming programs, visit stephcrowder.com or reach out via Instagram @hey.stephcrowder.
This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and practical strategies presented by Steph Crowder in Episode 116 of Courage & Clarity. By focusing on belief-building and addressing the root causes of self-doubt, entrepreneurs are better equipped to transform objections into opportunities for growth and client success.