Confidence is a main driver for peak performance. Because it is so essential, that’s where the Confidence Toolbox comes in. It’s a huge help when I need confidence the most. From my experience as a sports agent and keynote speaker, I want to share five must-haves for your Confidence Toolbox.
What’s a Confidence Toolbox?
Most of us have things that rattle us. We all encounter the unexpected. The wrinkles and bumps in the road that ding us a little or a lot. Our passion for our purpose can make us vulnerable to taking these curveballs personally.
I think of a Confidence Toolbox as a collection of techniques that I can use to keep my spirits up and my belief in myself at its healthiest level. These tools are always accessible.
I’m confident they will work for you too.
Tool 1: Re-read your personal mission statement
When life forces us to take a step back, or when we’re moving into a space that’s new to us, that can be unnerving. Why? Because it challenges our sense of self.
I get back on track by rehearsing my personal mission statement. My confidence returns when I ground myself in who I am—and who I want to be when I am at my best.
This vision for my optimal performance is driven by my personal mission statement. Build this tool by unloading your old story and writing your new one. When you feel your confidence slipping, re-root yourself in your mission.
Tool 2: Create a smile file
OK, so that sounds a little (a lot?) cheesy. But trust me, this works. The Smile File is your personal collection of reminders of your best self.
It can be electronic: emails that make you feel good. Great feedback from a client or friend.
Or it can be tangible (thanks Carol Dweck): A token of improvement or a new endeavor. Maybe a race number or a difficult puzzle that you solved. Anything you can quantify or shows that you are pushing yourself.
It doesn’t have to be given to you. The Smile File can include anything you created that you are proud of. These important personal symbols of your success and potential spark confidence.
Tool 3: Create an early morning success ritual
My friend Tommy Newberry, a success coach who works with many top executives, shared the idea of an early morning success ritual (EMSR) with me. It’s something I have since incorporated into my own morning routine. One way to start your day off with confidence is to write down three things that would make the day great. Then, write: Today, I will be ___________. These two simple actions will help you wake up with optimism and focus.
Tool 4: Stock your library of inspiration
I love to read, and am constantly picking up new books with new ideas. My favorites? They become part of my “library of inspiration.” Keep 1-3 books by your bedside table or at your desk that have previously inspired you. When you need a little confidence boost, peek at them for some quick inspiration.
Tool 5: Build Confidence in Others
A quick way to my best self is to send out positivity to others. A quick note of encouragement. Even just a silly emoji (can you tell I have preteens?)
You might recognize this tool as being the change you want to see. Confident people build their own ideas, projects, goals, plans, and aspirations by uplifting the same in others.
It works! Even/especially if I’m not feeling so confident, making an effort like this ends up boosting me, too. Bottom line: Tapping into the best around us can build the best within us.
Your Game Changer Takeaway
When something shakes your trust in yourself, or you know that you need more faith to keep moving forward, turn to the must-haves in your Confidence Toolbox. Keep them front of mind so they’re ready when you need them. And stay aware for moments when your confidence shines and ways to capture those moments. Because there’s always room for another must-have in your Confidence Toolbox.
The Molly Fletcher Company inspires leaders, teams and organizations to kick-start growth. A keynote speaker and author, Molly draws on her decades of experiences working as a sports agent. Her company offers training and coaching programs to help leaders unleash their potential, including: Game Changer Negotiation Training, which teaches business people a framework for successful negotiating; The Energized Leader training, which teaches people how to manage their energy to achieve focus and freedom; and a monthly coaching program, Game Changer Leadership Huddles, to help members recharge their purpose and mindset. Sign up here to receive our weekly newsletter and subscribe to the Game Changers with Molly Fletcher podcast on iTunes.