On Self_confidence
Hello friends,
Years ago, while in High school, every Thursday (in most cases) was dedicated to career guidance and personal development. Mr. Milton, our class teacher then, took the time to instill in us the principles that would shape our future. One of the key lessons that stuck with me was about the importance of self-confidence, a topic I later revisited in an article by Sinel Gunel.
The article reinforced what Mr. Milton often emphasized: our levels of self-confidence significantly shape our everyday lives. Confidence is not just about how we present ourselves to the world; it's about judging our capabilities and believing in ourselves. This self-belief directly influences how we think and act.
But what Mr. Milton, and later Gunel, highlighted was the distinction between genuine confidence and false self-assurance. In an attempt to cover their insecurities, many people project a façade of confidence. They might seem strong, but beneath the surface, they’re often grappling with self-doubt. This false confidence can lead to sabotaging others to appear more capable, but it never truly serves them in the long run.
On the other hand, genuinely confident people have a strong sense of self-belief. They don’t need to create a fake reality or seek external validation. They know their strengths and weaknesses and are focused on what they want to achieve, regardless of the opinions of others.
Reflecting on those Thursday sessions, I realize how pivotal they were in shaping our approach to life. The discipline learned during those days has been a cornerstone in approaching every field. Genuine confidence is not about bravado; it’s about understanding who you are, embracing your flaws, and having the courage to pursue your goals without needing approval from the outside world.
Ultimately, it’s not about appearing strong but being strong from within. And that is a lesson I think we should carry.