7 WAYS TO DEAL WITH DOUBTS ON YOUR WAY TO PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL

Many players dreaming of a professional career start their journey in difficult conditions — playing in small clubs, without the spotlight, without the label of a "great talent." When you fight for your dreams every day, it’s easy to fall into the trap of doubts: Do I have enough talent? Will anyone notice me? Does it even make sense?
This is normal. But if you want to succeed, you must learn how to manage these thoughts. Here are 7 ways to help you:

1. ACCEPT THAT DOUBTS ARE PART OF THE JOURNEY

A lack of certainty doesn’t mean you’re not good enough. It only means you’re human. Even the greatest stars had moments of doubt. Doubts are not a sign to quit — they are a test of your determination.

Advice: Every time negative thoughts appear, remind yourself that they are part of the process. Don’t let them dictate your actions.

2. FOCUS ON DAILY PROGRESS, NOT IMMEDIATE RESULTS

If you only look at where you are now compared to professionals, you can easily get discouraged. It’s better to focus on whether you are a little better today than yesterday.
Daily progress builds great careers, not sudden leaps.

Advice: Keep a training journal and note small successes. This builds self-confidence.

3. LOOK FOR OPPORTUNITIES, NOT EXCUSES

Yes, playing in a small town makes it harder to get noticed. But today, thanks to the Internet, social media, matches on YouTube, and open tournaments — opportunities are greater than ever.
Instead of complaining about the lack of chances, actively look for them.

Advice: Record your matches, upload highlight videos online, and build a profile on platforms for players (like LinkedIn for athletes, Footballtalentstube.com, and others).

4. DEVELOP A LONG-DISTANCE MENTALITY

Many players drop out because they can’t handle the pressure and the pace of change. Your success is a marathon, not a sprint. Understand that even if you are "invisible" now, your moment can come — but you must be ready when it does.

Advice: Change the question from "Have I already made it?" to "Am I doing everything to be ready when my chance comes?"

5. SURROUND YOURSELF WITH A POSITIVE ENVIRONMENT

If the people around you constantly undermine your ambitions, it’s easier to believe them. Look for people who believe in your dreams or at least support you.
Sometimes it's better to have 2 true supporters than 20 skeptics.

Advice: Find mentors, coaches, or teammates who genuinely believe that hard work pays off.

6. BUILD CONFIDENCE THROUGH ACTION, NOT WAITING

Self-belief doesn’t come from thinking about it. It grows when you do things despite fear. Every tough training, every difficult match, every improved skill — they all build the foundation of your confidence.

Advice: Instead of wondering "Will I make it?", ask yourself daily: "What did I do today to get closer to my goal?"

7. REMEMBER THAT MANY PATHS LEAD TO SUCCESS

Not every professional started playing at the age of 6 in a big club’s academy. Some players made it through tournaments, lower leagues, working with the right agents, or by taking initiative themselves.
Your path doesn’t have to look like someone else's — it just has to be yours.

Advice: Don’t blindly compare yourself to others. Be inspired by them, but build your own unique story.

At the end of the day: If you have doubts — you’re on the right track. It means you care. The question is not "Will you avoid them?" but "Will you keep going despite them?"
Your perseverance, courage, and patience can be your greatest talents — even greater than your technical skills or physical abilities.

I’m rooting for you. Keep fighting.