Confidence is Critical
Are you feeling confident about the future? If not, then for heaven’s sake why not? Don’t get me wrong, I am not suggesting we ignore current economic conditions or indeed any other signs of a weakening position. What I am suggesting, however, is that confidence is critical to success, regardless of prevailing conditions.
Henry Ford said: "If you think you can, you can. And if you think you can't, you're right."
How we view a set of circumstances or particular challenge has a direct impact on our ability to succeed.
To what degree the current economic crisis has been deepened by the media we will never know – but there has undoubtedly been a significant impact. Old news it may be, but the run on Northern Rock last year is an example of that. What Northern Rock saver in their right mind would have ignored the alarmist coverage in the media and left their savings where they were? As a Kaupthing Edge customer myself, the temptation to withdraw my savings when news of their troubles broke was almost overwhelming, despite the 100% guarantee by the government.
Such a complete lack of confidence in another’s ability to succeed is often self fulfilling – and the same applies to confidence in one’s own likely success. Being successful in business requires drive, determination and a good deal of hard work. If you lack confidence in your likely success, then it is easy to lose that drive and give up, leading to inevitable failure.
So, how can we maintain our confidence, particularly in light of trying circumstances?
| 1. | Make sure your business goals are aligned to your values and purposes. You will then have a great inner strength to draw upon to remind you of your belief in what you are doing; |
| 2. | Surround yourself with supportive people who share your beliefs and goals. Some people seem to have been put on this earth to sap your energy and confidence – don’t give them the opportunity; |
| 3. | Have well-thought-out and robust plans in place, along with key measures to understand how you are doing at any given time. This will give you the confidence that all is under control and allow you to address any issues in good time; |
| 4. | Respond to external circumstances with a victor mentality – by taking ownership, responsibility and accountability for your own destiny. Leave life’s victims to hide behind excuses and denial; |
| 5. | Remember that the strong can become stronger during tough times – make sure you continue to invest in the right areas of your business and keep tight control of cash. |
| 6. | Work with a top-class Business Advisor who believes in your business as much as you do – a sure-fire way to ensure you focus on the things that matter. |
