How Confidence Works

Synopsis

* Confidence makes your brain work better and boosts your performance
* Confidence acts like a mini-antidepressant, lifting your mood
* Confidence is contagious
* Confidence is anxiety's greatest antidote
* Confidence is a set of habits that feel fake at first but become real with practice
* Confidence makes boys bullsh*t more than girls
* Overconfidence can have disastrous consequences
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'Brilliant ... it will change how you think about confidence.' Johann Hari
'Important for everyone but crucial for women.' Mary Robinson
'Interesting and important.' Steven Pinker
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Imagine we could discover something that could make us richer, healthier, longer-living, smarter, kinder, happier, more motivated and more innovative. Ridiculous, you might say... What is this elixir?

Confidence.

If you have it, it can empower you to reach heights you never thought possible. But if you don't, it can have a devastating effect on your future. Confidence lies at the core of what makes things happen.

Exploring the science and neuroscience behind confidence that has emerged over the last decade, clinical psychologist and neuroscientist Professor Ian Robertson tells us how confidence plays out in our minds, our brains and indeed our bodies. He explains where it comes from and how it spreads - with extraordinary economic and political consequences. And why it's not necessarily something you are born with, but something that can be learned.
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'Rich stories and change-inspiring examples for every kind of performer.' Pippa Grange

'Appealing... ranges from neuroscience to politics.' Nature

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Summary

Chapter 1: The Nature of Confidence

* Summary: Confidence is not a fixed trait but rather a state of mind that can be cultivated. It arises from a belief in one's abilities and a positive outlook on life.
* Example: A student who believes in their ability to do well on a test and maintains a positive attitude towards the exam.

Chapter 2: The Benefits of Confidence

* Summary: Confidence leads to a range of positive outcomes, including improved performance, increased productivity, and enhanced relationships.
* Example: A salesperson who is confident in their ability to close deals is more likely to succeed and build lasting relationships with clients.

Chapter 3: The Sources of Confidence

* Summary: Confidence can come from various sources, including past successes, positive self-talk, and supportive relationships.
* Example: An athlete who has achieved success in the past may carry that confidence into future competitions.

Chapter 4: The Cycle of Confidence

* Summary: Confidence is a self-reinforcing cycle. When we experience success, it builds our confidence, which in turn leads to more success.
* Example: A manager who successfully completes a project boosts their confidence, making them more likely to take on future challenges.

Chapter 5: Building Confidence

* Summary: Confidence can be developed through a variety of strategies, such as setting achievable goals, practicing self-compassion, and surrounding oneself with supportive people.
* Example: A writer who sets realistic writing targets and seeks feedback from trusted mentors.

Chapter 6: Overcoming Self-Doubt

* Summary: Self-doubt is a common obstacle to confidence. It can be managed by challenging negative thoughts, practicing gratitude, and accepting imperfections.
* Example: A musician who feels anxious about performing can practice self-talk affirmations and focus on their strengths.

Chapter 7: Confidence in Action

* Summary: Confidence is not just a feeling but also an action. It requires taking risks and stepping outside of one's comfort zone.
* Example: A public speaker who overcomes their fear of speaking in front of an audience.

Chapter 8: The Power of Vulnerability

* Summary: Vulnerability is not a sign of weakness but rather a key to building strong connections and fostering confidence.
* Example: A leader who openly shares their mistakes and learns from them, inspiring trust and admiration from their team.

Chapter 9: Confidence from the Inside Out

* Summary: True confidence comes from a deep sense of self-worth and a belief in one's own values.
* Example: A person who is confident in who they are, regardless of external factors.

Chapter 10: The Confidence Continuum

* Summary: Confidence is not a binary state but rather a continuum that can fluctuate. It requires resilience to bounce back from setbacks and maintain a positive outlook.
* Example: An entrepreneur who experiences setbacks but maintains their belief in their vision and continues to pursue it.