I draw my confidence from practice.
Every training session where I throw that left handed pass I build a bank of confidence that on the day I can do it.
It doesn’t guarantee that I will do it (I’m always suspicious of people who say they will achieve their goal with certainty).
Every time I practice a presentation and hear the sound of my voice presenting better it gives me confidence.
What about scenarios where you’re going into the unknown?
Well in that scenario I’m not confident that I will get everything right first time and the odds are that I won’t. There is always a learning curve but I’m confident that I can give my best attitude and effort because I’ve done it so many times in the past.
I don’t think confidence is a born with or not trait.
I think it’s a skill you practice and build.
So if you struggle with confidence, I would ask – how can you get more practice in?
And ramp up the practice as you develop.
If you’re accomplished at hitting the target from 5 yards, try hit it from 7.
If you’re a master at presenting to your mirror try one audience member.
Thomas Duggan 