I love the quote from Kelis, the singer who says ‘I’m the greatest me you’ll ever meet’. No one else is you! You are a unique individual with a unique combination of skills and abilities. Have confidence in what you know you can achieve.
Olympic shot putter and twice declared the world’s strongest man Geoff Capes said ‘I only have one product – and it’s me!’ I have always been determined to be my own ‘brand’ – a desirable and valuable commodity that others want. Believe in yourself and you are believable.
My first job upon leaving school was a radio presenter, and I soon realised that it was not the skills required in operating the studio equipment that made me successful – it was my individuality, my personality. I had to sell myself and to ‘be the brand’ people wanted to buy into. All it requires is the inner desire to succeed, and the inner peace which comes from self-belief and self-confidence. This inner peace creates in you a personality which comes across as genuine and relaxed – a person others feel confident being around, and as relaxed as you are.
Inner confidence
There are many leaders you come across who are far too intense, and this tight nervous energy rubs off onto those around them in a negative way. It’s one thing to be driven, it’s another to be a distraction! An inner confidence leads to being relaxed and assured, and a personality people will more readily warm to.
Winston Churchill early in his career displayed a clear belief in his own personal abilities. He is quoted as saying ‘We are all worms, but I do believe I am a glow-worm’.
Confidence through conviction
Confidence also flows from knowing your ground, own mind, and having the ‘confidence of your own convictions’. This enables you to be decisive in front of others. Do your homework, be sure of the decision you reach, then be decisive!
Knowing you are speaking from the heart because you passionately believe in what you and your team are doing, will also help you come across as confident. What is within a person is what shines through. Is it inner confidence, optimism and self-assurance, or nervousness, self-doubt, negativity and a lack of conviction?
I have become more convinced that it is the small differences make all the difference
