There are a large number of people who are lacking in the self-confidence they need to move forward in their career so we will look at ways to boost your own self-confidence and how to boost the confidence in others. Each of these strategies can be used personally, with employees and even with your kids.
The Confidence Paradox – Have you ever heard someone say, “I just want to feel more confident before I try X?” In reality confidence is not something we gain before we do something. Instead confidence happens after we do something.
While you can prepare for something new, confidence will only come after you do it.
How would you encourage people to build up confidence?
Block unhealthy messages – we may put ourselves down, or we might replay what someone else said – either way, if we have been told that we are not good at something, or we keep telling ourselves that message, we will not give it a try. And even the words, “I’ll try.” are a cop-out. People say, “I’ll try” when they really don’t believe they’ll be able to use it. As Yoda said, “There is no try, there is only do.” Start eliminating negative self talk and don’t accept someone else’s opinion on what you may or may not be good at. Their opinion likely has more to do with their own self-confidence.
Think it through – Help prepare yourself for the challenge. Most people over estimate risks and underestimate benefits. What really could go wrong and how likely is that to happen, and so what if it goes poorly – you will still learn something.
Go for it – When you watch a baby learn how to stand and walk – it is an impressive feat – with many falls and bumps on the head, they stick with it. Imagine if babies had the tenacity of many adults. You would see a colleague crawling along the floor, “Hey Bill, what’s with the crawling?” “I tried walking a few times, its not for me, I’m going to stick with crawling.”
You will be amazed at what you are truly capable of if you get out there and do it.
Visit www.LeadershipWizard.com for great solutions to increase your personal and organizational effectiveness.
