Confidence serves us well, but you can’t rely on it in isolation, explains Rebecca Mander, founder of executive coaching business GuruYou
We’ve all seen that classic reality show contestant who, pre-performance, tells the host they exited the womb with a microphone and have been wowing loved ones and locals ever since with their voice. They walk on stage oozing confidence, strutting like they’ve already won the show. Then, the music starts… and ouch! They think they’re amazing, but the audience doesn’t agree. Confidence? Check. Self-awareness? Not so much. The same can happen in your career –– confidence alone isn’t enough. Sure, it’s essential for putting yourself out there, but without self-awareness, you might miss the mark. So how do you balance both for that winning performance in your career?
Why Confidence AND Self-Awareness Matter
Confidence gives you the courage to take risks, speak up in meetings, and say YES to opportunities. But without self-awareness, it can lead to some tricky moments. Self-awareness, on the other hand, is your secret weapon; it helps you understand your strengths and weaknesses. When paired with confidence, it keeps you from falling into the overconfidence trap, where you think you’re hitting the high notes but are actually a bit off-key. Together, confidence and self-awareness are the power duo for smashing your career goals.
How to Build Your Confidence and Self-Awareness
1. Reflect on your wins
Create a list of moments where you succeeded, whether it was planning an event or nailing that pitch for your boss. Revisiting your achievements reminds you what you’re capable of and helps build your confidence. Plus, reflecting on how you overcame challenges sharpens your self-awareness.
2. Get some honest feedback
Want to know if you’re truly hitting the right notes in your career? Ask for feedback. Yes, it can feel scary, but constructive criticism is invaluable. Ask peers, line managers and friends. It can help you see blind spots and understand how others perceive your performance.
3. Set stretch goals
Confidence grows through action, and setting stretch goals (challenges just outside your comfort zone) will push you to grow. Whether it’s coming to meetings with your camera on (a BIG MUST in my book), leading a big meeting, or tackling a project that makes you a little nervous, these goals help you expand your skills and prove to yourself that you can do more than you thought.
A Final Thought (and a Reality Check)
Here’s the truth: Even the best performers miss a note now and then. Confidence doesn’t mean being perfect. It means being resilient, learning from mistakes, and keeping your eyes on the bigger picture. Self-awareness is the key to making sure you stay in tune and keep improving.
Ready to Nail Your Performance?
If it’s time to build both your confidence and your self-awareness, take time to reflect on your successes, listen to feedback, and keep pushing yourself with new goals. That’s the real winning combination. Here is our free gift to help you!
