I Have Confidence
I was having a conversation with a new acquaintance who was recently promoted to a leadership role in the company. While excited, they also expressed feelings of self-doubt, citing a lack of experience in the new position. I shared a few perspectives with her and thought I’d offer them here as well!
- Potential over perfection
- Nobody knows it all
- Stories we tell ourselves
Potential over Perfection
When interviewing for a job, the focus is often on skills, background, and experience. However, I might also add another important factor: your potential for serving in that particular role.
Also, keep in mind that while you might “hit the ground running,” there is also a learning curve associated with any position. So, take advantage of the opportunity to learn as you go and leverage connections by learning from and with colleagues, too!
Nobody Knows
It may seem as though everyone else knows what’s going on and how to do their jobs. In reality, we’re all working to figure things out, and nobody completely knows what they’re doing!
So let’s embrace being “lifelong learners” and strive for continuous improvement, regardless of role or position. I often find that opportunities to learn alongside others can help cultivate connections, build trust, and strengthen relationships!
Stories We Tell Ourselves
In her book Rising Strong, Brené Brown discusses the fact that we often make up stories that “diminish our inherent worthiness.” It’s important to be aware of the “stories we tell ourselves” and be mindful of the fact that we can shift the narrative as well.
For example, if we’re feeling nervous or anxious about an upcoming presentation, we might instead shift the narrative to, “I’m feeling excited about the presentation.” Just keep telling yourself that!
I’m reminded of the classic 1965 film “The Sound of Music,” which is based on the real-life story of the Von Trapp Family. It features Julie Andrews in the role of Maria who sings many memorable songs from “My Favorite Things” and “Do Re Mi” to “I Have Confidence,” which begins:
What will this day be like?
I wonder.
What will my future be?
I wonder.
It could be so exciting
To be out in the world, to be free!
My heart should be wildly rejoicing.
Oh, what’s the matter with me?
I’ve always longed for adventure,
To do the things I’ve never dared.
Now here I’m facing adventure.
Then why am I so scared?
Of course, the fear of doing something new or different is understandable; it’s part of being human. That said, what we choose to do in spite of (or because of) those feelings is what makes the difference.
Confident people celebrate their strengths, see their weaknesses as areas for development, and aren’t constantly doubting themselves.
As Maria builds up her courage and moves forward in her journey, she shares her growing belief in herself and, ultimately, her confidence:
With each step I am more certain
Everything will turn out fine.
I have confidence the world can all be mine!
They’ll have to agree
I have confidence in me.
I’m excited for you, and I’m confident in you, too!
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