I’ve written a lot recently about thinking and self talk, in particular how we tend to automatically focus on negatives. This applies just as easily to confidence. If asked, most of us can list things we cannot do, areas we lack confidence without too much searching.
So lets start at the opposite end. How often do you remind yourself of what you are good at, or remind yourself of times when you felt totally confident? What we think about has a direct bearing on how we feel, our emotional state. And, yes its that habit word again. Getting in the habit of feeling confident is one simple way of raising your general expectation of yourself.
Confidence is a tangible and definite feeling you experience within yourself. That emotional feeling drives you forward, shapes your beliefs – particularly the belief that you can do what you want to do. If a past event gives you confidence, when confronted with a similar situation you are likely to feel positive about doing it again.
Self confidence is how you see yourself and what you tell yourself – further reason to get out of the habit of negative self talk. Instead, get in the habit of reflecting and recalling your positive experiences. Most of us feel more confident doing things we enjoy and are good at. So take time to list these things.
You could be drawing on hobbies, interests, things you do around the home, socially, sports, work – anywhere. It may be things you haven’t done for a while. As well as writing things done, you may be able to find or create visual reminders of what you are good at. Remember, the purpose of this exercise is to focus on your strengths, not weaknesses.
Building up your “portfolio” of strengths and successes shouldn’t be a one off exercise. Depending on your circumstance, you may find it useful to regularly add to this and keep it up to date.
I can really appreciate this post today. I just recently got into a conversation about all the different favors I do for people, and started realizing that I have some valuable expertise. I mean, it surely is valuable if people continue to ask me for the same type of favors (the type that will save them dozens of dollars per hour), right?
I am going to start a little list for myself.
I love it. 🙂 Confidence is the biggest part of success and can be cultivated.
Hi David,
Thank you for visiting my blog.
You have a nice blog full of good stuffs here.
Warmly
Gamy
Very interesting idea indeed, I have never thought of this before. I certainly gotta try this out.
Thanks for all your comments – let me know how you get on as well. Can anyone think of a better word than portfolio – sounds too business like?
Court, I’m honoured.
Thank you for this post, it really made me think. Of course, my problem is is that I can’t think of things that I’m good at, because I’m a perfectionist and so everything is never good enough. So in my case, it’s near impossible to actually create a portfolio, but I think I’m going to try. I must say, I’ve tried in the past, and have tried getting suggestions from friends, but I tend to get responses such as “You’re good at complaining”, so that’s probably not really a positive.
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