Few people who lack some faith in their abilities to succeed in business. However, everyone experiences times — or days, months, or even years — when they are doubtful of their capacity to handle challenges, from young people in their first real employment to seasoned executives in the upper echelons of companies. Everyone experiences these moments of insecurity at work, but they don’t have to stop you from moving forward.
Preparation
Your piano teacher was right when she said that practice makes perfect. The best method to develop confidence in a certain topic, according to Schwartz, is to put effort and attention into it. When they believe they are not competent in a specific job or endeavor, many people give up because they believe their efforts would be in vain. However, according to Schwartz, diligent practice will nearly always prevail over innate talent. Start by practicing the skills in a safe environment if you are unsure of your capacity to do something, such as speak in front of a large audience or negotiate with a difficult customer. “Practice may be quite beneficial and is strongly advised because it tends to boost quality as well as confidence. Deliver the major presentation in reality rather than once before to the deadline. Before starting a new store, perform a test run, advises Gruenfeld. Better preparation can make even people who are confident in their talents more so.
Leave your own way alone
People who are confident aren’t just eager to practise; they’re also willing to admit that they aren’t — and can’t be — experts. As Gruenfeld puts it, “Knowing when you need support is better than not knowing.” “It takes a certain amount of confidence to be willing to accept that you need direction or support, specifically trust in your ability to learn.”
Take chances
It’s a wise strategy to play to your strengths, but not if it makes you reluctant to accept new challenges. “Try something you don’t think you can do. Many people don’t know what they are capable of until they are really tested. Failure can be a great confidence booster.
Principles to Bear in Mind
Do:
Knowing what you already know and what you still need to learn can help you go forward.
Accept new opportunities to demonstrate your ability to do challenging things. Practice doing the things you are unsure about.
Don’t:
Don’t spend too much time worrying about whether you have the skills; instead, consider the value you can add.
Do not be reluctant to request outside validation if necessary.
Avoid worrying about what other people might think and instead put yourself first.
