Contentment and other people’s perceptions are two essential elements of confidence.
Contentment
Until a person is content with what they’ve achieved, they’ll never be content with anything they accomplish in the future. That’s sad because the person will never feel “good enough.” They’ll never feel completely confident in what they’re doing. What a horrible way to live.
Other people’s perceptions
One of the most confidence diminishing agents can be other people’s perceptions. It’s human nature to want to be admired and liked by others. There’s nothing wrong with that…unless we allow others’ perceptions to rob us of our confidence.
In my confidence programs I counsel participants to embrace others’ perceptions and act on them quickly…when these perceptions help propel them toward their goals. The folks offering this advice should be appreciated and valued for they have our best interests at heart.
Conversely, when other’s perceptions aren’t going to accelerate the achievement of our goals, then I suggest that you smile, thank the person (they are typically well-intentioned), then ignore their advice. Not because these aren’t good, caring people, but because their perceptions don’t align with your vision.
For you
There’s no reason why you should lead a life of discontent. Remind yourself daily of all the good that you’ve enjoyed throughout your life. Your awareness of and contentment with what you’ve achieved will propel you to continue a life of achievement.
When others offer their perceptions, ask yourself “Is this going to help me get what I want out of life?” If so, act on it quickly. If not, ignore it. Either reaction will afford you the joy of knowing that you’ve made a conscious choice to pursue what brings you joy.
For our kids
When the kids in your life exhibit victimology attitudes, have them make a list of all that they’ve accomplished. Even toddlers have learned a great deal. Encourage them to recall the things they’ve learned. Encourage them to recall these everyday by taking a few seconds to share with them the things for which you’re grateful, then asking them to do the same.
When other’s perceptions create doubt in kids’ minds, diminishing their confidence, ask them what they want to accomplish. Then ask whether the other person’s perception will help them get what they want.
These simple techniques can help your kids lead lives of joy and excitement.
I love hearing your thoughts and experiences, please leave your comment below.
If you’d like to enjoy great confidence, check out our Confidence Self-Study programs.
you’d like to enrich the lives of others by teaching them to be more confident, check out our Teaching Confidence Instructor Certification program.
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