Confidence - part II

Confidence-part 2

https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/281874

Yesterday we started a two-day series on confidence. Let’s finish that off today.

I found that I had lost my confidence when I taught statistics four months ago.  Yes, it was a stretch for me to be teaching statistics.  I ‘kind of’ knew the material.  But I didn’t and spent too much time relearning.  Then, I was tentative in class as I expounded on things - and the students could tell by my body language!!

So, back to the article:

-6 Set yourself up to win

Establish small goals that you can win.  The article says, “Instead of focusing only on “to-do" lists, I like to spend time reflecting on “did-it" lists. Reflecting on the major milestones, projects and goals you’ve achieved is a great way to reinforce confidence in your skills.”

Some people have fought years to be a success.  Supposedly Edison did over 1,000 attempts to make a light bulb.  But, he viewed those attempts not as failures - but just honing on the final project.  With every attempt, he grew close to what worked and what didn’t work.  So, how about you?  Looking for some new experiences, find some small wins.  

-7 Help somebody else

When you help somebody else, you feel more confident.  Even with little things - like tutoring an elementary student, you get growth and knowledge.  

I mentored two middle school boys in the past two years.  For one of those boys, he was falling behind in math and every week, we caught him up on his assignments and then we played chess.  His home-life was less than stellar, but for an hour a week, he was encouraged and supported. 

-8 Take care of yourself

Working on self-confidence you need to feel good about yourself.  Get enough sleep, get good nutrition, get some exercise, 

As we have noticed before, that exercise (for one thing) does help grow confidence and a feeling of self-worth.  Likewise, sleep is a major positive in our lives.

-9 Create personal boundaries

This might be the hardest for me.  The article says “Learn to say no. Teach others to respect your personal boundaries. If necessary, take classes on how to be more assertive and learn to ask for what you want. The more control and say that you have over your own life, the greater will be your self-confidence.

Hmmm - saying ‘no’ is tough for me!!  Two days ago, I said “yes” to another weekly two-and-half-hour commitment - playing in the Williamson County Symphony!!  I guess I’m trying to fill my life with activities!!

-10 Shift to a positive mentality

The article says “People with low self-confidence see others as better or more deserving than themselves. Instead of carrying this perception, see yourself as being equal to everyone. They are no better or more deserving than you. Make a mental shift to an equality mentality and you will automatically see an improvement in your self-confidence.”

As I reflect on this, I do see others as better or more deserving.  Maybe that is humility or maybe I am putting myself down.  

Sometimes I want to be humble, but I also have (maybe too much) pride in my life!!!  Is it wrong for me (or you) to be proud of what God has allowed you to be and to do?  I can stand up straight and strong now - like Maria from the Sound of Music “I have confidence in me”!!

How about you?  Are you positive?  Can you say ‘no’ (especially AP)!!  Can you balance your successes with proper humility?  

Hugs!!

Karen