When I am speaking or doing workshops, I often get asked about confidence. Many people struggle with feelings of insecurity or inadequacy in all areas of life, including work and relationships.

A couple weeks ago, we explored the art of visualization for creating more of what you want in your life. Today, I am going to expand upon those steps and illustrate how to use the power of your mind to become more confident.

I want you to think about any area of your life you lack confidence right now—your job, dating, or whatever it is for you.

Close your eyes and imagine what it is like to be full of confidence. What does that feel like? Can you imagine what that feeling is? Can you FEEL that feeling? Does it feel expansive? Solid? Conjure that feeling deep down inside.

You must first believe that you can accomplish whatever it is. You have to see yourself doing whatever it is successfully and with ease and grace.

VISUALIZE AND FEEL THE FEELING!

Any successful person will tell you that there was a time when they were filled with self-doubt, but many learned quickly to act “as if” they felt confident. This is not being dishonest or being in denial.

I learned the value of acting “as if” when I started working as an assistant in a talent agency a zillion years ago. I truly knew nothing about the business, but I acted confidently, nonetheless, because I knew whatever I did not know, I would learn. I was motivated and loved what I was doing. If someone asked me a question that I did not know the answer, I simply said, “I will find out the answer to that and circle back to you as soon as possible.” I knew I was in a learning curve, but I committed myself to being a quick study, taking notes, and researching on my own time to accelerate the growth of my knowledge base. I always had my eye on the success prize and was willing to do whatever it took to become a masterful agent one day.

Giving off positive energy while you are learning will draw positive experiences to you. It positively impacts the way others perceive you and feel around you.

I can’t tell you when I went from acting “as if” to becoming truly confident. Every new learning curve I find myself in provides another opportunity to try it on until it fits. You can do the same: Try on feeling confident until it fits, until it becomes who you are.

Where do you lack confidence? What would being confident in that area of your life look and feel like? Maybe you’ve cracked the confidence code. Share your secret!

I hope you have an amazingly confident week and, as always, take care of you.

Love Love Love

Terri

Terri Cole is a licensed psychotherapist, transformation coach, and an expert at turning fear into freedom. Sign up for Terri’s weekly Tune Up Tips and follow her on Twitter.

*Photo Credit: Daniela Vladimirova via Compfight cc