Confidence
What is it?
Many leaders strive to appear confident, whilst also perhaps in reality lacking confidence or experiencing self-doubt. Think about leaders who strike you as being confident with a style that you warm to and might want to emulate.
Inner - Confidence stems from our ability to be aware of our being, our strengths, weaknesses and our intent. Making progress with purpose towards our intent helps us feel more positive. Taking care of our minds and bodies to stimulate us through exercise, reading or writing can also feel like productivity and progress, and lead to habits that are helping us develop our inner – confidence. We can also elevate our self – confidence by up – skilling and doing something that we would not have been able to do without some increase in goal – setting and practicing. Finally, inner – confidence can be stimulated socially, through us feeling connected to others.
This inner confidence comes from our progress on our intention, which is felt through changes in our neuro chemistry:
Dopamine: Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is involved in motivation, reward, and pleasure. When you achieve a goal or receive positive feedback, your brain releases dopamine, which can boost your confidence and motivate you to continue pursuing your goals
Serotonin: Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is involved in regulating mood, appetite, and sleep. Low levels of serotonin have been linked to anxiety and depression, while higher levels of serotonin can lead to feelings of happiness, confidence, and well-being
Testosterone: Testosterone is a hormone that is associated with increased confidence and assertiveness, particularly in men. Higher levels of testosterone have been linked to increased risk-taking behavior and greater self-confidence
Oxytocin: Oxytocin is a hormone that is involved in social bonding, trust, and empathy. When you feel connected to others and experience positive social interactions, your brain releases oxytocin, which can boost feelings of confidence and well-being
As a Confident leader, we may appear self – assured, be authentic and consistent to be credible and inspire others, elevating energy levels and optimism amongst those around us.
How might you develop it?
As a coach, I work with leaders and teams on building their confidence, which requires several things to take place.
First, appraising current state and situation, though coaching conversations, assessments, and feedback
Second, developing clarity on what we want to be different
Thirdly, determine what are our barriers to inner confidence
Fourthly, naming and measuring why, how, where and when we aim to be seen differently
Who am I? Who do I want to be? How would I behave if I am who I want to be?
Here are some recommended books on developing Confidence:
"The Confidence Code" by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman: This book explores the science of confidence and offers practical tips for boosting your confidence in different areas of your lif.
"Presence: Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest Challenges" by Amy Cuddy: This book offers insights and strategies for building confidence through body language, mindfulness, and self-affirmation
"The 5 Second Rule" by Mel Robbins: This book introduces a simple, but powerful technique for overcoming fear and self-doubt to boost your confidence and take action towards your goals
"The Power of Vulnerability" by Brené Brown: This book explores the concept of vulnerability and how embracing it can help you build stronger connections with others and boost your confidence in your own abilities
"The Self-Confidence Workbook" by Barbara Markway and Celia Ampel: This book offers practical exercises and strategies for overcoming self-doubt, building self-esteem, and increasing your confidence in various aspects of your life