Why the first chapter in your book should be self-belief
Why the first chapter in your book should be self-belief
As I pivoted from a being a lawyer to speaking to millions of people on live television, radio and podcasts, I really lacked the self-belief that I could do it.
One of the reasons for the lack of self-belief was that I was comparing myself to others who were accomplished in the field.
But if you are looking to change roles, change your career or re-write your story, there is no doubt having supportive people around you is important.
But when it comes down to it, it is the self-belief that matters. Self-belief isn’t bragging or boasting, but a realistic evaluation of your abilities which ultimately leads to confidence.
Here are my three tidbits about why self-belief is the first chapter of re-writing your story.
1. Intelligence and opportunities aren’t determinative
The difference between success and failure isn’t about intelligence or opportunities (they help, but aren’t determinative), it’s about first having self-belief in your ability to work it out eventually. Embrace the uncertainty in the outcome or result and trust yourself to figure things out in the meantime. One way to apply this is through positive affirmations that you say to yourself.
2. Successful people don’t play the victim card
The people who are most successful demonstrate an unyielding determination to shape situations in their favour. They distinguish themselves by harbouring belief in their ability to conquer the challenges that are in their way, rather than playing the victim card and complaining about the circumstances. They view challenges as opportunities, not roadblocks. It is through the struggle, where you grow the most and develop the self-belief - put yourself in new environments to find out what you are made of.
3. Focus on the process to develop self-belief, not the outcome
Whether you are learning to:
play the piano 🎹
play basketball 🏀;;
painting 🎨; or
public speaking,
focus on just “doing” every day.
Instead of worrying about the results, focus on the process and consistently executing on those practising every day. It all starts with a simple belief in yourself - the results are simply a consequence of your tiny transformations.
Thought Provoking Quotes on this week’s topic
Bruce Lee
Always be yourself and have faith in yourself. Do not go out and look for a successful personality and try to duplicate it.
Zig Ziglar
Put all excuses aside and remember this – you are capable.