How would you describe a self-confident
person? Generally, many people consider a self-confident person to be a perfect
know-it-all, who is the center of attention, and never shows weakness.
Some folks confuse the terms
self-confidence with self-esteem.
The former is cosmetic, and may not be a sign of your
true nature. The latter is your true essence; a reflection of your
core beliefs. Core beliefs are mostly formed before the
age of seven. As youngsters, our subconscious is actually programmed with
patterns that influence our behaviors and relationships for a lifetime. Want a
simple way to reprogram your subconscious patterns, and strengthen your
self-esteem?
On page 96 of Unleashing
Your Brilliance, I discussed the technique act-as-if
as a means to bolster self-confidence. Children call it pretending, but we'll
call it role-playing. Just behave as if you were absolutely sure of yourself,
and secure in your view of the world. The reason this works is rather
complicated, but a simple explanation is that your neurology begins to rewire
itself to match what is being exhibited externally. The benefits of this go much
deeper than just the superficial self-confidence. It affects your core beliefs,
and influences your self-esteem.
On a recent teleclass, I was asked what one can do to become more
self-confident. Well, any of the following will fit the bill:
- Smile a lot
- Distrust doubt
- Embrace change
- Maintain an upright
posture
- Become a
self-improvement enthusiast
- Acknowledge and
develop your strengths
- Consider events as
they are - and no worse
- Be willing to make
mistakes and receive feedback
- Be willing to give
compliments and constructive feedback
Keep this up for a few weeks, and you will
begin to notice some confident behaviors becoming routine. Then you'll know that
you have rewired some of your neurology. So, my advice is
fake-it 'til you make-it.
