307: Overcoming Self-Doubt and Embracing Unexpected Obstacles
From Happier At Work: Leadership, Culture, Performance by Aoife O'Brien
June 12, 2026 · 9 min
About this episode
Aoife O'Brien shares her experiences from her US book tour, discussing the challenges and growth opportunities that come with overcoming self-doubt and setbacks.
Have you ever let nerves or setbacks stop you from reaching your next big goal? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien offers an honest, behind-the-scenes look at her US book tour for "Thriving Talent." Broadcasting from San Francisco, Aoife shares both the exciting highlights and the unseen struggles of traveling alone, everything from logistical headaches and moments of isolation to being featured in Forbes. She dives into a personal story about overcoming her hesitation to drive in the US again, using the metaphor of navigating challenging roads (literally and figuratively) for the kinds of setbacks we all encounter in our careers. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: The reality behind high-visibility work, and what social media doesn’t show about travel, loneliness, and logistical challenges. How nervousness and setbacks can signal growth opportunities and what to do when you want to give up. Practical encouragement to reflect on your own barriers at work. Related Topics Covered: Overcoming Challenges, Confidence at Work, self-doubt Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Website LinkedIn YouTube Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode…
People in this episode
Host: Aoife O'Brien
Topics covered
- Overcoming Challenges
- Confidence at Work
- Self-Doubt
- Personal Growth
- Career Setbacks
Keywords
- self-doubt
- career challenges
- personal growth
- logistical issues
- nervousness
- high-visibility work
- travel struggles
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Forbes
Books & works: Thriving Talent
Places: San Francisco
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