Self-confidence is an
evolutionary journey. It is the accumulation of experiences, new learning and
fearlessness. Sometimes you may possess it and not even realize. Being
conscious of your own powers and abilities is what allows you to think, speak
and act purposefully. You tap into an inner strength and embody courage to
succeed. Self-confidence is linked with success as you have more
energy and your inspiration comes from within.
No one is immune to slip into bouts of doubt, insecurity and uncertainty;
however, it is your choice if you allow it to dictate the conditions of your
life. Insecurity plagues people consciously and unconsciously. While the
fearful will agonize over decisions and make the safe choices, the confident
leader will make the decision quickly and change their mind slowly.
Every time you express your opinion to the world, each time your
stand for something you want or every time you take a risk to expand your
unfamiliar zone, you are building your own reservoir of confidence which only
you can access at any time you choose. It’s yours, you own it.
Self-confidence is a fundamental quality to leaders and it is
where leadership grows. To build confidence, you must practice confidence.
Let’s embark on a quest for self-confidence and embody 10
principles to harness your self-confidence that lives within you:
1. Ultimate you
Your essence as a leader is independent of the opinion of others,
feels above and beneath no one and is fearless of all challenges. When you
embrace your true self, you know within that you can handle whatever happens in
life with compassion and certainty as your self-worth is not tied to what
others think of you. You purposefully step into being fearless and courageous
in all things.
2. True masters, always the
student
Allow yourself to be an avid learner. Acknowledge that it is okay
not to be perfect, expand your own limitations and unfamiliar zones to step
into starting something new. Lifelong learning separates those who will
continue to rise in the fields from those who are content to just float along.
There is a concept in Zen Buddhism called “shoshin” or “beginner’s
mind”, which means being open to learning more no matter what level of success
you have achieved. When you approach your work with vigor, you work knowing
there is always something new to learn.
3. Execution is the game
The ‘what if’ loop permeates the minds of many. Worrying,
overthinking and anxiety create a state of paralysis in which you fail to act.
When you do act, you own the consequences. The accomplishments or downfalls are
the greatest feedback, gifts and experiences. When you detach from the outcome,
execution is the decision where your confidence will grow.
4. Getting in the trenches
Building a surplus of experiences only results from putting
yourself out there and taking risks. A disciplined practice and a commitment to
growth enhances your self-confidence because “repetition is the mother of all
skill” no matter the endeavour.
5. Practice presence
When you tap into your true self, you experience self confidence
as your ground state. Through the practice of being present in the moment, the
voices of doubt, indecision and fear soften to distant whispers. From this
state, you tap into your internal resources as a platform for achievement and
fulfilment.
Practicing mindfulness can have significant benefits for your
physical and psychological well being. Notice your breath flowing and bring
awareness to your other sensations – what you see, what you hear, what you
smell, and taste.
Visualize your confidence in your mind’s eye by seeing yourself
speaking on a stage or doing the activity for which you require more
confidence. Allow the feelings of comfortable presence to pervade your body and
mind.
“Yesterday is
gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We have only today. Let us begin.” – Mother Teresa
6. Say ‘no’
Confident people know that saying ‘no’ is healthy. They own their
‘no’ with confidence as it is in alignment with who they are, their values and
what they stand for. Saying ‘no’ to new commitments honors your existing
priorities.
7. Knowledge breeds confidence
Tapping into mentorship boosts confidence. Accessing the
knowledge, experience and wisdom of a person who has walked the path less
travelled allows you to focus your energy more effectively and efficiently.
Successful CEO’s continue to study from the masters. Whether it’s attending
conferences, watching TED talks or engaging a mentor. By studying the best
in your field, you can up your game.
8. What would Kanye do?
Confident people are not afraid to stretch their limits and set
the bar high. Kanye West claiming to run for President in the 2024 elections
should not be taken lightly as he strongly holds his belief in his own ability
to succeed. Setting the bar too low or not acting will slowly but surely allow
self-doubt to creep back in. Every time you find yourself holding yourself
back, just ask yourself, ‘what would Kanye do?”
“You are now
watching the greatest living rock star on the planet.” – Kanye West
9. Deliberate practice
World-class titans don’t ever rest. Deliberate practice trumps
natural talent. If you are unsure about your ability to do something, start by
trying on the skills in a safe setting. Preparation builds confidence over
time. Getting out of your own way by asking for help is confidence in learning.
When you tap into your own value and how you can add value to others,
confidence is no longer about self-promotion. You invest your energy and your
being in how you can add value to another human being. It’s no longer about
you.
10. Get your power pose on
Wonder Woman power posing has been all the rage over the last 5
years. Amy Cuddy, Harvard Psychologist, did a TED Talk and discussed how your
body language governs how you think and feel about yourself. For instance,
commanding a powerful stance can make you feel more powerful. When you keep
your body relaxed and open, your confidence starts to rise. A further academic
paper published in 2018 by Cuddy, provided ample evidence that adopting an
expansive posture makes people feel more powerful. Before your next interview,
strike a power pose.
Confidence turns thought to action. Confidence is a building block
in an impactful career and embracing it will take you places you never thought
possible.
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