Reflections on the value of confidence

Recently, I revisited a development programme, I completed a few years ago, called Feminine Power Mastery.  One of the exercises is about uncovering our old narratives and breaking free from past patterns, to create a new self identity.

As I reflected on my early life experiences, I realised how my younger self struggled with confidence, and the ripple effect it had on my life choices.

School and corporate life didn’t exactly give me the encouragement I needed! So it’s been an ongoing process of slowly developing my self-confidence over the years, while admiring those who can move to a new country or show up on video with ease!

I wonder if you can relate?

Striking a healthy balance to avoid the pitfalls of overconfidence, arrogance and poor decision making, is key for success in life and work for several reasons.

~ Confident leaders tend to be more decisive, action-oriented, and less likely to procrastinate.

~ With greater confidence we are more likely to take a few calculated risks, explore new opportunities and innovate.

~ Clear and confident communication is essential whether this is making a presentation, speaking to new clients or pitching a proposal.

~ Showing up with confidence is helpful in social situations and when networking.  When you feel positive about yourself and others, you’re more likely to make meaningful connections, create relationships and collaborate with others.

~ With self-belief, you are better able to face challenges head-on and bounce back from rejections, failures and difficult situations.

~ And most importantly, confidence in the value of your products, services, and brand will set you apart, attract and retain clients, as well as influence others to choose you over any competitors.

Do you need a confidence boost? Read on for easy to implement tips…

Challenge any negative thoughts as soon as they appear.  It’s just a thought which you can change.

Invest time in honing your skills and becoming an expert in your field. The more competent you feel, the more confident you become.

This is one my Dad always used to say to me – maintain good posture!  Also make eye contact, smile and use open body language as it has an impact on our mood and emotions.

Spend time with supportive and encouraging individuals and avoid any toxic relationships that may be undermining.  I’ve become much more discerning about who I spend time with and the conversations I engage with in person or on line.

Physical activity releases endorphins, which can improve your mood and confidence.

Work with a supportive coach or a therapist to release past beliefs and create a new self-identity.

I would love to know what you would do, if you felt confident and empowered to take a bold decision, embrace a new challenge or make a change to your work or lifestyle? 

Health and Well-being in 2024…

Is a healthier lifestyle one of your intentions this year?  It’s always on my list of intentions.

I’m not a vegetarian, however, after watching the Netflix documentary on “You Are What You Eat: A Twin Experiment”, (I was really shocked to see how cattle and chicken are treated), I might reconsider.

“Live to 100. Secrets of the Blue Zone”, again on Netflix, was much easier watching. I now secretly want to move to a Greek Island and live a simple, nourishing life, soaking up sunshine, while eating olives and home grown vegetables.

Michael Greger’s book, How Not to Die, gives effective, scientifically proven nutritional advice to prevent our biggest killers – including heart disease, breast cancer, prostate cancer, high blood pressure and diabetes – and reveals the health benefits that simple dietary choices can provide.

On my wish list is Healthy Made Simple: Delicious, plant-based recipes by Ella Mills.

And I enjoyed Laura Try’s down to earth and entertaining video, “I tried Andrew Huberman’s Strict Daily Routine (optimise sleep, focus & health).”  Laura’s a great example of stepping out of the comfort zone. Click to watch it here

Wishing you health and confidence!