Self-confidence is an important attitude for an individual to possess. It can be described as a positive belief that a person is in control of his or her life. It is the ability to take advantage of opportunities, not needing or relying on the approval of others and acknowledging the ability to achieve a goal or objective. It is a realistic, positive acknowledgment of an individual's abilities and capabilities. Self-confidence can be energetic, inspiring and motivating.
Childhood
Emotional nourishment deeply influences children. This is when self-confidence begins. Children who despite their imperfections and mistakes receive encouragement, love and acceptance from adults learn to accept themselves. Parents, however, should not protect their children from failure. These setbacks can build confidence, resilience, security, feelings of competence and self-reliance in a child. Unfortunately, negative behavior too often receives more attention than positive behavior. Children who are abused or receive excessive demands and criticism from adults may come to believe they are inferior, incapable or inadequate, beliefs that can follow them into adulthood.
Teen Years
The teenage years can be full of angst, self-doubt, envy and embarrassment. The once cute little kid that everyone loved can now be a confused individual dealing with acne, body changes, peer pressure and raging hormones. A self-confident teen is aware of his/her intelligence, learns from mistakes, dwells on strengths and not weaknesses, and has enough self-esteem to walk away from unethical individuals or situations. Strong family relationships displaying encouragement and support are also important to teens, though they may be reluctant to admit it.
Adulthood
Adults lacking self-confidence often focus too much on unrealistic expectations or standards of others, particularly parents, friends and society. Self-defeating thoughts and assumptions can obliterate the potential for poise and confidence. In direct contrast, confident individuals are positive, upbeat, believe in themselves and their abilities. Self-confidence can bring about a solid foundation for people to have positive feelings about themselves.
Behaviors
A lack of self-confidence can result in negativity and self-destructive behaviors, including anxiety, fear, delinquency and drug or alcohol abuse. People with low self-esteem may also display increased levels of stress. This insecurity can be alleviated through self-determination, hard work and the support of family and friends. Too much self-confidence can result in an individual taking too many risks, being unrealistic and pushing themselves beyond their capabilities. With too little self-confidence, a person well could not take any risks, behave like a defeatist and be willing to settle for the status quo.
Misconceptions
Self-confidence is not an all-encompassing approach. An individual may excel in sports, be successful professionally, and be knowledgeable about information technology, but that same individual may not be proficient at all with close relationships or home maintenance. A person may not have self-assurance in every aspect of life while still being trusting of his or her abilities and acceptance. Self-confidence does not equate to beliefs or expectations of perfection.
Perception
An individual may bring perceptions of self-confidence to others. These may include being aware of his or her physical appearance, having good posture and acknowledging the accomplishments and achievements of others. By making a positive impression on others, an individual can indirectly bring out the best in his or her own self.
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