“Lacking confidence” is a phrase stamped on assessments and appraisals quite frequently.
It’s possibly a misdirection, and it’s hobbling us. If you tell someone they lack confidence- or seem to – they often believe you. They’ve heard that their whole life. You may have as well. And what’s familiar, feels right. But that’s a huge lift. Getting more confident, finding confidence – yikes.
Let’s reframe lack of confidence: let’s say instead that you are really only lacking comfort (not confidence) in a certain situation.
Why do we so readily grab on to the fact that we lack confidence?
Initially, in looking at this perspective, I assumed it was going to show up more on intake surveys of female clients. But that isn’t the case. It’s across the board — people accepting that they lack confidence because someone said it to them about the way they show up, speak, or lead a meeting. Reframe: How about saying they may be uncomfortable and that they lack a few tools and techniques that can help?
Confidence can be a head game and quite discouraging.
Lack of comfort can be a technique game; you can learn communication techniques that allow you to be more comfortable.
Many of us were full of joy and confidence when we were little – maybe 5 or 6 – we could be anything. We were joyously confident and comfortable – not arrogant.
Did we truly lose confidence as we moved through adolescence, or did we simply get less comfortable?
If we believe we are lacking in confidence it seems to be self-perpetuating – a powerful snowball situation.
Why not say to ourselves – or others – “I’m lacking comfort in this particular situation – I’m still confident and competent – just not comfortable.” Yes, it’s only wording, and yet, words are powerful.
We have seen so many people light up with this reframe! Bright, talented, successful folks who have accepted and sunk under the weight that they lack confidence are now investing valuable time in reclaiming their confidence, when suddenly they are reminded that they already are confident.
This reframe is a relief. It rings true. Yes, they are confident and excellent at what they do. They simply are in a variety of situations that are new and different and uncomfortable.
What mileage do we get out of equating comfort and confidence? Truly, I’m asking.
You can equate them. You can substitute them for each other.
Your choice. We suggest it’s simpler to reframe your “lack of confidence” to a “lack of comfort.” Seek out the tools that free you to be more comfortable communicating in a variety of situations – and accept that while some situations do feel odd and uncomfortable, you can still rock your confidence and competence.
Hilary Blair is a leadership keynote speaker based out of Denver, CO, and is the co-founder of ARTiculate: Real & Clear. She is also a highly regarded, actor, improviser, facilitator, voice-over artist, and voice expert coach. Contact us today to learn more.
