The Benefits of Being More Confident

I love coaching people on gaining more confidence. This is such a necessary skill in today's world.

Yes, you read that right. I believe that confidence is a SKILL we can LEARN. Despite what many think, confidence isn't something someone is either born with or not.

I'll agree that certain people have more natural confidence than others, just like some people are more naturally artistic or athletic. But ALL skills can be developed with effort.

Some people mistake confidence for pride, which is thinking too highly of oneself in comparison to others. But it's been my observation that those who are TRULY confident are more likely to be selfless and are less likely to get caught up in comparisons.

For example, my son has always been quite confident. But something I've observed is that as he's become more confident, his heart and mind have become increasingly outwardly focused.

Conversely, my 15-year-old, who is currently struggling with confidence, has a much harder time noticing the needs of people outside of her. Lack of confidence in teens (and adults) tends to create tunnel-vision.

So, one of the most powerful results of having more confidence is being more focused on others and less caught up in comparisons.

Another benefit of greater confidence is living a bigger life. This includes setting and achieving bigger goals and having a greater impact.

When you're confident, you don't back down in the face of fear, embarrassment, or stress.

You will probably still feel all those feelings; but confidence gives you the courage to keep moving forward despite them. This process leads to greater emotional resilience.

People who are more confident are also less likely to be negatively impacted by their environment. For teens, this means they won't fall prey to peer pressure.

Confident people make choices based on their own values rather than looking outside themselves for approval. They also have healthier relationships, both with themselves and others.

These are just a few examples of the benefits of more confidence. I'm sure there are many more that I haven't considered.

How would your life be different if you were more confident? Actually pause and think about this for a second.

What things would you be willing to try? Which dreams would you be willing reach for? Whose lives would you be able to influence? What greater impact could you have on the world?

Watch for my posts over the next several weeks because I will be teaching you some of the ways you can build more confidence, and help those you love do the same.