Having confidence is one of the key differentiators in women’s journeys to becoming successful. The question is – how do we become more confident?
The starting point of confidence is courage. The good news is that researchers believe courage is not inherent – it can be taught. Here are some practical Tips to Live with Courage and Confidence that we can all take.*
1) It starts in your head
BELIEVE in yourself! How?
Get rid of negative mind-talk, by using positive mind-talk.
A good way to do this, is by having a positive mantra for your life, that you repeat to yourself every day. @DiliniFernando’s example: I belong. I will succeed. I’m not alone.
You can’t go into a game and not put your heart into it. Give it your all. The things you DON’T do haunt you forever.
Don’t compare yourself to others. EVER.
No one is going to believe that you’ll be successful if you don’t believe it first! And by the way, people WANT you to be successful!
2) Take action. Take risks.
You have to take risks. Don’t be afraid of it.
I just love this quote by @KaitlinCurry: The only way in which you can gain experience is by putting yourself in new situations and by allowing yourself some time. Also, some time to fail.
Breathing is key: Before you speak at a meeting, take a deep breath. And then speak your point of view boldly.
Throughout the journey, cling to positivity.
3) When things don’t go well
Have self-compassion.
Fail forward: When you look back, your biggest failures turn out to be those you learn from and grow through the most.
Stay true to yourself and listen to your inner voice.
Don’t chase down others’ perception of you.
You have to get back up and get it going again.
4) Build others’ confidence
Build others up, always.
Having someone in your corner when you are taking a risk or start something new, is invaluable. Be sure to be that someone for others.
People leaders: We have a role in building courage and confidence in others. We have to take that role seriously, as we can really make a difference in how people look at themselves.
Be sure to fight the game in your head, take action and risks and get up when you fall. And on the journey, bring others along. That way you can build a great life, not only for yourself but also for others.
*This article was adapted from an article JB wrote and published on LinkedIn on December 29th, 2020 after an MCBC LITE group Pub chat that she facilitated.
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