On stage
Overnight success seldom occurs before “dawn.” In fact it may begin with rejection.
“I learned that I wasn't very good in my first play. Yeah, I was really bad. I really struggled. It was quite a shock, actually,” said Matthew Macfayden about his first role out of drama school. “But looking back, I guess it was quite a good thing because it was a real - it was my first job. And it was quite scary and quite lonely at times.” Macfayden explained to Dave Davies on Fresh Air that he found his role in The Dutchess of Malfi very challenging. “I didn't know how to make Antonio interesting, and I just wasn't very good. And the reviewers didn't think I was very good either.”
Macfayden says that he had the confidence to know this role was not the best for him at the time, and he needed to act in other parts. However, Macfayden persisted in his craft and recently won an Emmy for his role as Tom Wambsgans in the HBO hit Succession. Such an award recognizes an actor’s talent but also its impact on those who experience it.
Building self-confidence
Early challenges often bring out the best in us if we are willing to learn from them. Executive coaches often deal with self-confidence issues, even in the most outwardly successful executives. The word "outwardly" means they achieved good results for their colleagues, but "inwardly" may feel not good enough or unworthy.
Part of this may be due to the imposter syndrome, the feeling that you are not good enough at your job and therefore do not deserve what you have achieved. A bit of this feeling is a healthy check on the ego; too much of this negative thought can hinder personal and professional development.
Whatever feelings of inadequacy one may feel professionally, it is essential to overcome them. Here are some questions to help.
What have I achieved thus far? First, it is essential to recognize that where you are now is a result of some success, starting with school, as well as accomplishments earlier in your career. Remembering what you have achieved should give you some degree of confidence.
What more do I want to accomplish and why? Be specific if you want to do more in your career. What role do you see yourself playing at work, and what do you want to accomplish in that goal? You also need to consider why you want these roles. Is it to make more money, gain a promotion, or seek greater recognition? Whatever you decide is fine; knowing why is essential.
How can I prepare myself to assume new roles? Knowing what to achieve points you in the right direction. Getting there is a matter of application. Is it more schooling, more professional development, more responsibilities? Seek guidance from colleagues you trust and discuss ways to position yourself for greater success.
Shifting the focus to others
Knowing yourself is essential to achievement. Self-awareness also can embrace a recognition your impact on others. In a TEDx talk, best-selling author-keynote speaker David Burkus asked: "Who is served by the work we do?" Knowing that answer determines your purpose. It opens the door to service.
Furthermore, leaders must realize that serving others begins with putting employees into positions where they can be the most effective. Such mindset shifts thinking from "me" to "we." Leadership relies upon self-preparation, but its purpose is fulfilled in its positive effect on others.
Understanding yourself – and your role in helping others – is a confidence builder.
