Written by: Treva Graves, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Confidence, a luminous beacon that guides us through the maze of life's challenges, is not just an accessory; it's the very fabric of our success. It's the key that turns the ignition of your dreams, the subtle force that propels you towards your goals. I've always believed that confidence is the bedrock upon which the castles of our aspirations are built.
Picture this: a high-stakes decision in the boardroom, sweat glistening on your brow, and the weight of the world resting on your shoulders. What do you need? Confidence. It's the secret weapon of countless modern titans like Elon Musk, Sheryl Sandberg, and Tim Cook. The truth is confidence is not merely a desire—it's an absolute necessity in today's cutthroat world. It's the 'X' factor that sets the winners apart from the also-rans.
But, contrary to popular belief, confidence isn't a natural birthright; it's a skill honed through time and dedication. And let me tell you, the journey is worth every step. It's the map to a mindset that radiates authority, empowers decision-making, and weaves a tapestry of influence and credibility.
If you're looking to bolster your self-assurance, here are three strategies to help you shine like the North Star in your journey.
1. Embrace gratitude over apologies
Apologizing unnecessarily is a reflex for many of us, especially women. It's like a safety net we inadvertently weave under the pressure of societal expectations. But here's the twist: it can backfire. It chips away at your self-esteem and sends the wrong signals.
Did you know studies reveal that women tend to apologize more often than men? According to Inc.com this chronic 'I'm sorry' syndrome can lead to a subtle erosion of self-confidence. Instead of saying "I'm sorry," try saying "Thank you." For instance, instead of apologizing and saying, "I'm sorry, we need to reschedule the meeting," consider saying, "Thank you for working with my schedule." It's a power move that allows you to express gratitude without taking undeserved blame.
This shift in communication not only makes you come across as more assertive but also infuses your apologies with more meaning and impact, especially when used in the right context.
2. Speak with self-confidence and authority
Your voice is your instrument, and how you play it can either charm or deter your audience. Women often face the challenge of higher-pitched voices, which, when not controlled, can undermine confidence. The secret is to add gravitas to your speech.
Imagine your voice as a musical note—rather than hitting high-pitched notes that might sound shrill and unsure, aim for a deep, resonant tone. A downward inflection at the end of a sentence can work wonders, conveying authority and certainty. This sonic transformation can be your secret weapon, giving your voice a commanding presence.
Public speaking, often labeled as a daunting task, is an area where many falter. A staggering 38% of people fear it, while 75% grapple with speech anxiety. Jerry Seinfeld humorously nailed the irony of this fear by comparing it to death as you will read here.
To tackle it, consider the 'focus on eyes' strategy. It involves addressing one person at a time, allowing you to share one complete thought or sentence with unwavering eye contact before moving to the next. It's your shield against nerves and filler words, ensuring you remain composed even when addressing a large crowd.
Mastering the art of confident speaking can lead to increased likability and trust, fostering fruitful relationships with co-workers, clients, and customers.
3. Power of a positive mindset
Confidence is fueled by a positive mindset. The way you frame your goals can make all the difference. Instead of saying, "I hope I can," embrace a more resolute mindset with "I'm going to make it happen." Positivity acts as the elixir that powers your confidence and channels your focus towards achieving your goals.
Great leaders and entrepreneurs aren't wishful thinkers; they are doers. When setting out on my entrepreneurial journey a decade ago, I looked up to successful entrepreneurs and set both 'micro' and ‘macro’ goals for myself. With each achievement, I celebrated with a reward. It was a promise to myself: no 'wants' unless I'd 'earned' them. My six-figure income marked a trip that I had planned for years as my hard-earned prize.
According to Psychology Today, positive thinking is the compass that guides your focus. Whether you're striving to reach a sales target or complete a marathon, directing your gaze towards your potential sets the stage for success. It's a self-sustaining loop where optimism fuels achievement, and achievement boosts confidence.
The choice to see the silver lining in life, to embrace challenging goals without self-doubt, is the cornerstone of a sturdy confidence foundation. Each day's work becomes a joyous, inspired adventure. When you dream big and believe in your potential, you become unstoppable.
So, choose to radiate confidence, to be the star in your life's performance. After all, confidence isn't just a skill; it's a masterpiece waiting to be painted by you.
To learn more about Treva and download her free 21-page Bloom Your Confidence Guidebook, visit here.
Treva Graves, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Treva Graves is a global personal brand expert, best-selling author, confidence coach, and keynote speaker. With expertise in building authentic personal & digital brands, monetizing businesses, and cultivating self-confidence for life, she inspires individuals and organizations to reach their full leadership potential. Treva’s strategic guidance, transformative coaching, and multifaceted certifications make her a sought-after expert in building memorable reputations for success.
As a speaker and corporate trainer, she helps business professionals overcome self-limiting beliefs to “nuke” imposter syndrome for good. She shares her wisdom, personal stories, and facilitates profound transformations, helping individuals unlock their true potential. Treva’s impact extends globally, leaving an indelible mark on the world of women’s empowerment and personal development.
Treva is the CEO and founder of Bloom Personal Branding & Impression Management where she works with clients to leverage quick wins with the long game in mind. To buy Treva’s best-selling book, Self-Doubt Detox, visit her website at https://www.bloompersonalbranding.com
