The Composition of Confidence
Some people have the look of confidence radiating from them. Others cower and their body language shows their lack of confidence. So what’s really going on?
Merriam-Webster’s definition of Confidence is: a feeling or belief that you can do something well or succeed at something. By definition, confidence is something that you internally possess. Can you gain it or increase it? I believe so. I also believe there are two qualities that are essential in attaining/maintaining confidence…passion and self focus.
First, think of something you are passionate about (a skill, your work, your knowledge on a particular topic, a charity or cause). When we are passionate about something we often become an “expert” on the history, skill, mechanics of it. We enjoy it. We pursue it. The more we know, the stronger the passion, the more confident we become. We know, we know about it.
Second, since we know, we know, we don’t need to rely on others on the matter. We can be assured in our viewpoint, expertise, skill, etc. Often though, being shy or lacking confidence will make us question our skill or knowledge, but that is related to others and their perceptions. We care about what others think. I challenge you to put more faith in yourself and stay focused on you than others. Certainly not to the point of being selfish but rather to the point that others have their own agenda and you have the right to go confidently forward with yours!
Confidence may feel like a risk and even exposure but in reality it is merely sharing your passion with others. They may agree or they may disagree, challenge you or even comment to the negative. Remember that is more about them than you.
As you journey along your path, may you go confidently forward!