How to Dial Up Your Confidence

Is there something, professionally speaking, that you’ve been afraid to chase? Maybe you keep putting off applying for that big job, or pitching the idea, or asking that leader to be your mentor.

 

What’s holding you back? It may be Imposter Syndrome, a false belief that you just aren’t worthy of that opportunity. Or it may be that you’re battling a confidence problem, which is a belief about what you can do or what you’re capable of.

 

So how do you know which is holding you back? My suggestion is to give your inner voice a listen. It may be saying “You should never apply for that job—you’re not worthy of it, or smart enough, or as good as other applicants.” Or its point of view may be “You can’t apply until you have X experience or certification or practice under your belt.”

 

Hear the difference?

 

That first voice is an assessment of you—you simply aren’t enough. That’s what Imposter Syndrome sounds like. And it’s pretty nasty. And also wrong.

 

The second voice is conditional—the obstacle isn’t who you are but what capability or experience you currently have. That’s a confidence issue. 

 

At times you may battle both. But today we’re focusing on what to do when Voice #2 chimes in. What actions can you take to dial up your sense of confidence?

1. Note the cost

When our confidence is low, it’s just easier to not do the thing. But the question is—what is that inaction costing you?

 

I’m not the world’s best driver. I drive, generally, but I don’t drive in New York City. I know I could… but my confidence is low. The good news is the cost of this choice is also low—meaning there are other alternatives like mass transit available.  

 

In other cases, the cost of inaction is unjustifiably high. The thing you’re not doing—posting for the job, asking for the mentor—what’s it costing you? What are you missing out on? More money, more prestige, more engagement, more learning, more feedback and connection? And what is that worth?

 

Getting real with yourself about the cost of inaction often provides the critical motivation you need to take action.

2. Assess your experience

I lack the confidence to fly a plane or perform surgery. This is just appropriate, and if you ever see me coming your way with a scalpel in hand, I’d advise you...

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